Mario Party Games On Nintendo Switch: A Guide

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the wild and wacky world of Mario Party on the Nintendo Switch? If you're looking for the perfect party game to play with your friends and family, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll explore the different Mario Party games available on the Switch, what makes them so much fun, and why they're a must-have for any Switch owner. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's get this party started!

What Makes Mario Party So Special?

Before we delve into the specific games, let's talk about what makes Mario Party such a beloved franchise. At its core, Mario Party is a digital board game where players compete in a series of minigames to collect coins and stars. The player with the most stars at the end of the game wins. But it's not just about winning; it's about the unpredictable chaos, the hilarious moments, and the friendly (or not-so-friendly) competition that arises along the way.

One of the key elements that make Mario Party so engaging is the variety of minigames. These minigames test your skills in different areas, such as speed, reflexes, memory, and strategy. From simple button-mashing challenges to more complex puzzles, there's always something new and exciting to try. And with each game featuring a different set of minigames, the replayability is incredibly high.

Another aspect that adds to the fun is the use of items and power-ups. These can be used to help yourself or hinder your opponents, adding an extra layer of strategy to the game. Whether you're stealing coins, swapping positions, or unleashing a devastating attack, items can turn the tide of the game in an instant. This element of surprise keeps everyone on their toes and ensures that no two games are ever the same.

But perhaps the most important ingredient in the Mario Party formula is the social interaction. Whether you're playing with friends on the couch or connecting with others online, Mario Party is designed to bring people together. The shared laughter, the groans of disappointment, and the cheers of victory create unforgettable memories that will last long after the game is over. So, if you're looking for a game that can liven up any gathering, Mario Party is definitely worth checking out.

Mario Party Titles on Nintendo Switch

Currently, there are two main Mario Party titles available on the Nintendo Switch: Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars. Each game offers a unique experience, with different boards, characters, and minigames. Let's take a closer look at each one to help you decide which one is right for you.

Super Mario Party

Super Mario Party was the first Mario Party game to be released on the Nintendo Switch, and it brought with it a host of new features and gameplay mechanics. One of the most notable additions was the introduction of character-specific dice blocks. Each character has their own unique dice block with different numbers and special abilities. This adds a new layer of strategy to the game, as you need to consider which character's dice block will give you the best advantage on each turn.

Another innovative feature in Super Mario Party is the Partner Party mode. In this mode, players team up in pairs and move freely around the board. This allows for more strategic positioning and teamwork, as you can coordinate your movements to collect items, trigger events, and block your opponents. Partner Party is a great way to mix things up and add a new dimension to the classic Mario Party gameplay.

The game also introduces new minigame modes, such as River Survival and Sound Stage. River Survival is a cooperative mode where players work together to navigate a river, paddling and avoiding obstacles along the way. Sound Stage is a rhythm-based mode where players compete in a series of musical challenges. These new modes offer a refreshing break from the traditional board game format and provide even more opportunities for fun and excitement.

Super Mario Party also makes use of the Joy-Con controllers in creative ways. Many of the minigames require motion controls, such as shaking, tilting, or pointing the Joy-Con. This adds a physical element to the game and makes it even more immersive. However, it's worth noting that Super Mario Party only supports local multiplayer, so you'll need multiple Joy-Cons to play with friends.

Overall, Super Mario Party is a solid entry in the Mario Party series and a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and innovative party game on the Nintendo Switch. The character-specific dice blocks, Partner Party mode, and motion-controlled minigames add a fresh twist to the classic Mario Party formula, while still retaining the core elements that make the series so beloved.

Mario Party Superstars

Mario Party Superstars is the latest installment in the Mario Party series, and it's a celebration of the franchise's rich history. The game features a selection of classic boards and minigames from previous Mario Party titles, all remastered and updated for the Nintendo Switch. This makes it a perfect choice for longtime fans of the series who want to relive their favorite moments, as well as newcomers who want to experience the best that Mario Party has to offer.

One of the biggest draws of Mario Party Superstars is the inclusion of five classic boards from the Nintendo 64 era: Peach's Birthday Cake, Yoshi's Tropical Island, Woody Woods, Horror Land, and Space Land. These boards have been faithfully recreated with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics, but they still retain the charm and nostalgia of the original versions. Each board has its own unique layout, events, and challenges, providing a diverse range of experiences.

The game also features a curated selection of 100 minigames from across the Mario Party series. These minigames have been carefully chosen to represent the best and most popular challenges from each game. Whether you're racing, battling, or solving puzzles, there's a minigame for everyone to enjoy. And with the option to play minigames separately in the Mt. Minigames mode, you can easily jump into your favorite challenges without having to play through a full board game.

Unlike Super Mario Party, Mario Party Superstars supports both local and online multiplayer. This means you can play with friends on the couch or connect with others online from around the world. The online multiplayer mode is particularly well-implemented, with smooth performance and a variety of options for customization. You can choose to play with friends, random players, or even set up private matches with specific rules and settings.

Mario Party Superstars is a fantastic addition to the Mario Party series and a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. The classic boards, the curated selection of minigames, and the robust online multiplayer make it a game that you'll want to play again and again. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, Mario Party Superstars is sure to provide hours of fun and entertainment.

Which Mario Party Game Should You Choose?

So, which Mario Party game should you choose for your Nintendo Switch? The answer depends on your personal preferences and what you're looking for in a party game. If you're looking for a more innovative and experimental experience with new gameplay mechanics and motion-controlled minigames, Super Mario Party is a great choice. However, keep in mind that it only supports local multiplayer, so you'll need multiple Joy-Cons to play with friends.

If you're looking for a more classic and nostalgic experience with a selection of the best boards and minigames from across the series, Mario Party Superstars is the way to go. It also supports both local and online multiplayer, making it a more versatile option for playing with friends and family. Ultimately, both games are great additions to the Mario Party series and offer hours of fun and entertainment. So, why not try both and see which one you prefer?

Tips and Tricks for Dominating Mario Party

Now that you know which Mario Party games are available on the Nintendo Switch, let's talk about some tips and tricks for dominating the competition. Whether you're a seasoned Mario Party veteran or a newcomer to the series, these strategies will help you increase your chances of winning and become the ultimate Mario Party champion.

• Master the Minigames: The key to success in Mario Party is mastering the minigames. Take the time to practice each minigame and learn the best strategies for winning. Pay attention to the instructions and look for any hidden tips or tricks that can give you an edge over your opponents. The more minigames you master, the better your chances of winning overall.
• Strategic Dice Rolling: Your dice rolls can make or break your game. Think strategically about where you want to land on the board and choose your dice block accordingly. Consider the position of stars, the location of your opponents, and any potential hazards or benefits that may be on the board. Sometimes it's better to roll a lower number to avoid landing on a bad space, while other times it's worth taking a risk to reach a star or collect coins.
• Item Management: Items can be incredibly powerful in Mario Party, so it's important to use them wisely. Save your best items for when you really need them, such as when you're close to a star or when you want to sabotage your opponents. Pay attention to the effects of each item and use them strategically to gain an advantage. Don't be afraid to use items defensively to protect yourself from attacks or to avoid landing on bad spaces.
• Coin Collection: Coins are essential for buying stars, so it's important to collect as many as possible. Look for opportunities to earn coins, such as landing on coin spaces, winning minigames, or stealing them from your opponents. Be mindful of your coin balance and try to keep a healthy supply so you can afford to buy stars when they appear. Don't be afraid to spend coins on items that can help you earn even more coins or hinder your opponents.
• Board Awareness: Pay attention to what's happening on the board and be aware of the positions of stars, events, and other players. Use this information to make informed decisions about where to move, which items to use, and how to interact with your opponents. Be observant and adapt your strategy based on the current situation on the board. The more aware you are of your surroundings, the better your chances of making smart decisions and winning the game.

Conclusion

Mario Party games on the Nintendo Switch are a must-have for any party game enthusiast. Whether you choose Super Mario Party or Mario Party Superstars, you're guaranteed hours of fun and excitement with friends and family. So, grab your Joy-Cons, gather your crew, and get ready to party like never before! With the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to becoming the ultimate Mario Party champion. Happy partying!