Monday, 21 Oct 2024

4 Best Mario Soccer Games

Mario Soccer

Nintendo’s beloved icon, Mario, has captured the hearts of gamers since his debut in the classic Donkey Kong game back in 1981. Over the years, Mario and his video games have gained immense popularity. From movies to the Olympic Games, Mario has dabbled in a variety of genres, including soccer. Today, we’ll explore the top four Mario Soccer games and the platforms they’re available on.

4. Mario & Sonic At The London 2012 Olympic Games

  • Platforms: Nintendo Wii, Nintendo 3DS

Unsurprisingly, Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games is not solely focused on soccer. It offers a wide range of sports, including badminton, canoeing, volleyball, athletics, aquatics, table tennis, and even horse riding. This multi-sport extravaganza provides gamers with plenty of playability. In addition, it incorporates famous London landmarks to enhance the Olympic atmosphere.

While the game features various sports, let’s zoom in on the soccer aspect. Players can take control of either Mario or Sonic, accompanied by a four-player team of their choice. The graphics are delightfully cartoonish, and each character has unique attributes such as acceleration, skill, stamina, and power. Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games offers a quick and enjoyable gaming experience, perfect for friends and younger players alike.

The Verdict:

Pros

  • Multiple sports to play
  • Fast-paced gameplay
  • Simple to learn
  • Fun and entertaining

Cons

  • May lose appeal quickly
  • Dated graphics
  • Occasional unresponsiveness
  • Not solely focused on soccer

This game is available on the Wii and Nintendo 3DS, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly family experience.

3. Mario Strikers: Battle League

  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch players are in for a treat with the upcoming release of Mario Strikers: Battle League on June 10, 2022. A highly anticipated sequel to the fantastic Mario Strikers Charged for the Wii (number one on our list), Battle League aims to take the best aspects of its predecessor and amp them up.

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One of the most exciting features of Battle League is its multiplayer scene, allowing up to eight players to participate locally in four-versus-four matches with two computer-controlled goalkeepers. Additionally, the game introduces an online “club mode” where up to 20 players can create their leagues and compete against each other.

Given the long gap since the last Mario-themed soccer game, Battle League holds enormous potential. With superior graphics and the essence of Mario Strikers Charged, fans of both Mario and arcade-style soccer games will have endless hours of team battles ahead. Although initially exclusive to the Nintendo Switch, the game’s popularity may lead to its availability on other platforms.

The Verdict:

Pros

  • Superb multiplayer experience
  • Fast-paced gameplay
  • Impressive graphics and intros
  • Great co-op play
  • Revamps a classic

Cons

  • Limited to one platform
  • Soccer may take a backseat to off-field battles

2. Super Mario Strikers

  • Platforms: GameCube

Super Mario Strikers, released in 2005, marked the end of Mario games on the GameCube. This video game combines soccer with the iconic Mario universe, offering players a unique and exciting experience. In addition to playing soccer, you can push opponents off the ball and throw Mario-themed items like bananas and mushrooms, adding a thrilling twist to multiplayer matches.

The game follows a standard five-a-side soccer format, with each player sharing the same goalkeeper. You choose your team captain from the major players in the Mario universe and select three sidekicks to join you in matches against the opposing team. Super Mario Strikers offers various game modes, including single-player, multiplayer, and practice mode for honing your skills.

The multiplayer options truly make this game shine, with power-ups and tactical gameplay. Pushing opponents into electric barriers or hitting them with a banana for a hilarious bullseye creates endless amusement. While Super Mario Strikers is solely available on the GameCube, it remains one of the most enjoyable Wii soccer games.

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The Verdict:

Pros

  • Excellent gameplay
  • Fast-paced matches
  • Easy to learn
  • Great replayability
  • Quick games offer loads of fun
  • Superb multiplayer experience

Cons

  • Dated graphics
  • Exclusive to the GameCube
  • Weak single-player mode

1. Mario Strikers Charged

  • Platforms: Nintendo Wii, Wii U

Topping our list is the exceptional Mario Strikers Charged, a Nintendo Wii platform game released in 2007. With its blend of soccer and warfare, this game offers both single-player and multiplayer modes. While the single-player mode is decent, it’s the multiplayer mode that truly sets this Nintendo classic apart.

Mario Strikers Charged combines fast-paced soccer matches with battleground shenanigans. Instead of traditional soccer pitches, games take place in arena-like settings, adding unique gameplay elements. In addition to scoring goals, players must use special moves or engage in combat to stop opponents.

Once you’ve chosen among the 12 available team captains, each with their own special moves, you select three sidekicks to join your team. Only the captain can perform a Megastrike, a powerful move worth three to six points. Sidekicks also contribute to the tactical depth of the game with their skillshots. Mario Strikers Charged remains one of the best Wii soccer games to date, and its upcoming sequel, Battle League, has high expectations to meet.

The Verdict:

Pros

  • Impressive graphics considering its age
  • Frenetic pace
  • Easy to learn
  • Hours of replayability
  • Superb multiplayer experience

Cons

  • Somewhat dated, but still enjoyable
  • Battle League may soon overshadow it
  • Weak single-player story mode
  • Exclusive to the Wii

Overall Verdict

Mario Strikers Charged claims the top spot among the best Mario soccer games. However, with the imminent release of Battle League in June 2022, its reign may be challenged. Regardless, all four games offer fast-paced, quirky, and thrilling gameplay. While they may not rival FIFA in terms of realism, Mario soccer games provide endless fun and laughter—perfect for quick matches with friends.

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FAQs

Q: Can I play these Mario soccer games on platforms other than those mentioned?
A: Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games is available on the Wii and Nintendo 3DS. Mario Strikers: Battle League is initially exclusive to the Nintendo Switch, but its popularity may expand to other platforms. Super Mario Strikers is exclusively available on the GameCube. Lastly, Mario Strikers Charged is playable on both the Wii and Wii U.

Q: Are these games suitable for younger players?
A: Yes, these games offer simple controls and enjoyable gameplay, making them suitable for younger players. They provide a fun and entertaining experience for the whole family.

Q: Do these games have multiplayer options?
A: Absolutely! Multiplayer modes are a significant aspect of these Mario soccer games. They offer opportunities to play with friends locally or create online leagues for intense competitions.

Q: Will there be additional Mario soccer games in the future?
A: Mario Strikers: Battle League, set to release in June 2022, serves as a highly anticipated sequel. With the success and popularity of these games, it’s reasonable to expect more Mario soccer games in the future.

Conclusion

Mario’s foray into the world of soccer has brought us some remarkable games over the years. From the multi-sport extravaganza of Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games to the upcoming release of Mario Strikers: Battle League, these games have provided endless hours of fun. Whether you play alone or with friends, the fast-paced, quirky nature of these Mario soccer games guarantees an enjoyable gaming experience. So gather your friends, grab your controllers, and dive into the exciting world of Mario soccer! Learn more about Mario soccer games on Movin993.