Video Game Guilt? These Experts Say Mario Games Are Great For Families

If you're a millennial or Gen-Z parent, you likely grew up playing video games—and chances are Mario featured heavily. Despite screen-time guidelines, many parents have happily brought a Nintendo Switch home so their kids could experience the joy of Mario—and they could play along.

Oscar-winning actress Zoe Saldana told People magazine in 2024 that gaming had become a family activity with her husband and three boys. The Nintendo spokesperson added that Mario Games, in particular, were a favourite."Going back to playing Super Mario Bros. of any sort makes me super happy," she told People.

But even Saldana had concerns, saying that it was important that she and her husband figure out a way to make gaming a positive, family activity. "That's why we're all playing together. They're not just in a corner, sucked into a screen; we're all involved," she said.

The good news? We found some experts who agree that parents can ditch the guilt around video games, especially when they're played as a family. And Mario games, in particular, have some added benefits.

According to Nilou Esmaeilpour, a registered clinical counselor, "Mario games can be widely beneficial for bonding and building stronger family environments. The cooperative play designs let parents and children spend time together while problem-solving and working together. The important communication, patience and social skills also show children how to share roles, take turns and strategize together."

If you're unsure which Nintendo Switch Mario games are a good starting point, we asked experts to share their top recommendations and explain why these games are a great family-friendly choice to enjoy together.

The family-friendly appeal of the Mario franchise

Since 1981, Mario games have captivated the hearts of players young and old. Mario's first appearance was in the original Nintendo game Donkey Kong, and since then, the franchise has grown into a multi-billion dollar entity. Now, the franchise has spawned hundreds of video games across multiple Nintendo gaming consoles, including Super Mario Bros and party games like Mario Kart and Super Mario Party.

Yaron Litwin, a digital parenting expert and CMO of the Canopy Parental Control App, says that a huge aspect of the Mario franchise's appeal is that it entertains kids in much the same way it did their parents. "It has stood the test of time by pairing the same loveable characters with fresh, new adventures, keeping the series fresh for a new generation of fans," he explains.

Why the Nintendo Switch is a family-friendly console

Mario games have been available on Nintendo consoles from the very beginning, including the NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance and beyond. The latest console, the Nintendo Switch, also offers these games. However, Litwin notes that the Switch provides other family-friendly content as well.

"The Switch offers lots of family-friendly games and comes with two controllers out of the box, allowing for in-person multiplayer," he says. "While I am not a big fan of screen time and would rather see kids playing outside. However, if a parent still wants to grant some digital downtime, they can do a lot worse than Switch!"

Why Mario Switch games are great for families

Encourage cooperative gameplay

Richard Ramos, the founder of Parents on a Mission, an organization that empowers parents and youth through mentorship and leadership development, says that Mario games are great for families because they encourage cooperative gameplay and teamwork.

"Games like Super Mario 3D World and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe offer fun and cooperative experiences where family members of all generations can play side-by-side, each taking on different characters and working together to complete the various levels," Ramos explains. "Whether they’re leading, offering support in the same way as Luigi, or cheering others on, like Toad, it’s all there and that reflects real life."

Accessible for all ages

Ramos notes that Mario games are great for families due to their accessibility across all age groups.

"Whether you’re a young child new to gaming or an adult who’s been playing for years (or never) these games offer levels of difficulty and roles that suit different abilities and mean everyone can be involved and have fun," he says.

Reinforce life skills 

"Mario Games also help kids develop critical life skills and bring family members together in a way that’s inclusive and modern and that feels good," states Ramos. "Families must work together to solve puzzles, time jumps and figure out how to reach goals which also encourages problem-solving and communication, something families can struggle with on a day-to-day basis in the modern world where you are pulled is many directions at all ages."

Additionally, Ramos suggests that these games challenge hand-eye coordination as players navigate obstacles and move in sync with each other's actions, a key skill for kids of all ages. He continues, "They also teach teamwork: someone has to lead, others have to support and sometimes you fail and have to try again."

Strengthen family bonds

Cooperative gaming creates shared experiences, which Ramos says help strengthen the emotional connection between family members.

"Sitting together, working toward a common goal and celebrating small wins builds trust and a sense of belonging," he says. "These moments create positive memories and open the door for deeper conversations. It’s also a chance for parents to model patience, encouragement and leadership—values that children carry with them into other areas of their lives."

Safe content 

Mario games are generally safe for younger audiences to enjoy. However, Litwin notes that there is a certain low level of cartoon violence present in some of them. "You may want to have your youngest kids play or watch something else until they are ready for Mario," he suggests.

Mario games on the Switch

• Super Mario Odyssey: A 3D adventure game with a focus on exploration and collecting Power Moons.

• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: A kart racing game with a variety of characters, tracks and customization options.

• Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: A 3D platformer with cooperative multiplayer and a standalone open-world adventure.

• New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe: A 2D side-scrolling platformer with classic Mario gameplay and multiplayer support.

• Super Mario Maker 2: A game that allows players to create and share their own Mario levels.

• Mario Party Superstars: A collection of classic 64 game Mario Party minigames and boards.

• Super Mario Party Jamboree: A party game featuring seven boards, over 110 minigames, and modes like the 20-player online "Bowserathlon."
• Mario & Luigi Brothership: A turn-based RPG with puzzle-solving and a seafaring adventure across the islands of Concordia.

• Luigi's Mansion 3: While starring Luigi, this adventure game is part of the Mario universe and offers a more spooky, puzzle-solving experience.

Age ratings and what parents need to know

Like all content, Mario games also have ratings. According to Dr. Nick Bach, a psychologist, these ratings come from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which provides a standardized way to inform parents and consumers about the age-appropriateness of video games.

"It provides ratings based on content such as violence, language and themes, helping families make informed gaming choices," he explains. "Each rating comes with content descriptors that explain why a game received a particular rating (e.g., 'Mild Cartoon Violence' or 'Comic Mischief')."

Ratings for Mario games: 

Bach says that most Mario games on the Nintendo Switch are rated either E (Everyone) or E10+ (Everyone 10 and Up):

• E for Everyone: Suitable for all ages. "These games contain minimal if any, content that would be inappropriate for younger players," says Bach. "Examples include Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe."
• E10+ (Everyone 10 and Up): Recommended for children aged 10 and older. Bach explains, "These games are rated E10+ because they contain mild cartoon violence or slightly more complex gameplay. Examples include Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Luigi’s Mansion 3."

The best Mario games for younger children

• Yoshi's Crafted World: A charming platformer with a focus on exploration and creativity. It features simplified controls with a three-button layout, which enhances its accessibility. Additionally, the game offers co-op and mellow modes, allowing parents to play alongside their children and adjust the difficulty level. With a rating of E for everyone due to mild cartoon violence, it's suitable for all ages.

• Kirby Star Allies: Although not strictly a Mario game, Kirby often crosses over into the Mario universe, and this title offers simple gameplay and cooperative fun. The game is easy to play and supports up to four players, making it ideal for family playtime. However, it's rated E for Everyone 10+, so it's best suited for players age ten and up.

• Pikmin 4: A strategy game with cute characters and accessible gameplay. Rated E10+, it offers easy-to-learn controls and non-violent gameplay while encouraging problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.

The best Mario games for older children and teens

• Super Mario Odyssey: Super Mario Odyssey offers a more challenging experience with complex platforming and exploration. The game has an ESRB rating of E10+ and features a unique 'open-world' format. Additionally, it introduces new moves and abilities, such as those provided by Cappy, as well as more complex puzzles that younger players may struggle to solve on their own.

• Super Mario Maker 2: Encourages creativity and problem-solving with its level creation tools. Rated E for Everyone by the ESRB, the game is suitable for all ages, though its more advanced course creation features may be better suited for older players. Younger players can still enjoy playing levels created by others, and older siblings or parents can guide them through the process.

• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: This game offers competitive racing action and strategic gameplay. It is rated E for everyone by the ESRB, making it suitable for all players. However, some tracks may be too challenging for younger players. The base game includes 48 tracks, and with the purchaseable Booster Course Pass, players can access an additional 48 tracks and extra characters.

Tips for playing Mario games as a family

To reap the benefits of playing Mario games together as a family, Esmaeilpour says the best thing parents can do is to encourage all family members playing the game to work together.

"Playing as a team, whether solving puzzles or strategizing in multiplayer levels, will teach children to develop communication skills as well as patience," she explains. "Parents can contribute to developing teamwork by celebrating the cooperation episodes such as siblings helping each other in passing a really hard level."

Use games to spark meaningful conversations

"Making gaming a part of family life includes opening up to play and conversations with the children about what they enjoy in the games," suggests Esmaeilpour. "Discussions on the stories behind games, character choices and strategies bring in critical thinking and interesting discussions between parent and child."

Get involved

Being involved in your child's gameplay not only helps mitigate safety risks but also creates an experience that you and your child can share.

"Having an experience together provides a glimpse into the problem-solving, creativity and perseverance that a child encounters when tackling different adventures," suggests Esmaeilpour. "Having shared experiences through gaming is another way to forge closer ties as it builds trust and connection."

Safeguard online experiences

Playing Nintendo Switch online can expose players to interactions with strangers. Parents can use apps to limit online interactions, restrict purchases, set time limits, block age-inappropriate games and monitor activity.

Balance gaming with real-world fun

Gaming can be a fun way to bring the whole family together. However, Anand Mehta, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist, suggests it's important to balance screen time with other activities.

"Gaming, like anything else, should be enjoyed in moderation," he explains. "Kids need time for physical play, social interaction and creative activities."

Are there any developmental benefits to Mario games?

Cognitive benefits

While collecting stars, going down drain pipes and jumping up on mystery blocks may seem like anything but educational, from a developmental viewpoint, Esmaeilpour notes that most Mario games serve as cognitive trainers for children.

"These games have involved critical thinking, spatial understanding and fine motor coordination," he suggests. "Children will know what it means to think critically outside the box and try out different approaches and directions to the solution with puzzling within Super Mario Odyssey-type levels and just like in Luigi's Mansion 3. "

Fosters perseverance

Mehta observes that Mario games' trial-and-error nature helps teach kids resilience.

"When kids fail a level, they naturally try again, adjusting their strategy until they succeed," he explains. "That’s a powerful lesson in perseverance. But it’s more than just jumping and running: Mario games can help players recognize patterns, understand cause and effect and adapt to changing environments, skills that are valuable beyond the screen."

Encourages STEM curiosity: 

Mehta also suggests that some Mario games can lay a foundation for an interest in STEM-related skills.

He notes, "I see how kids are subconsciously learning geometry when they calculate jumps, navigate platforms and throw Cappy (in Super Mario Odyssey) with precision. I'm not saying it's a substitute for formal education, but I think it can spark curiosity and critical thinking."

Other family-friendly games on Nintendo Switch to consider

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons: This is another family-friendly game on Nintendo Switch that everyone in the family can enjoy together. It is rated E for everyone and offers a multiplayer mode for shared play. The game also contains no violence and promotes positive, educational themes such as creativity and personal responsibility.

• Minecraft: Families can also enjoy this game together on Nintendo Switch. It is rated E10+ (Everyone 10+) and features a multiplayer mode that supports up to 8 players during online play and up to 4 players in local co-op. In Minecraft, players explore a block-based world where they can create, build structures and use a variety of blocks and materials.

• Pokémon series: There are also plenty of Pokémon games for families to play on Switch, including titles like New Pokémon Snap, Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! and Pokémon Café ReMix. These games are family-friendly, featuring non-violent gameplay, and they encourage creativity and problem-solving skills through activities such as taking pictures, solving puzzles, or catching and interacting with Pokémon characters.

The bottom line

Mario games for the Nintendo Switch offer a unique blend of entertainment and bonding opportunities. Whether you're playing Super Mario games or other Mario titles on the Switch, these games are sure to bring joy to players of all ages.

However, parents should research games before allowing their children to play them and stay involved in their gaming experience. It's also important for parents to monitor their child's screen time and ensure it's balanced with other activities.

Beyond Mario, the Switch offers a wide range of family-friendly games worth exploring. Additionally, the Nintendo Switch 2 was officially announced earlier this year, although its release date is still uncertain. We can only imagine the exciting entertainment opportunities it will bring once it becomes available.

Experts

• Nilou Esmaeilpour is a registered clinical counselor and the founder of the Lotus Therapy & Counselling Centre.
• Yaron Litwin is a digital parenting expert and CMO of the Canopy Parental Control App.
• Richard Ramos is the founder of Parents on a Mission and Youth on a Mission, mentorship programs that empower parents and foster positive youth development.
• Dr. Nick Bach is a psychologist and CEO of Grace Psychological Services.
• Anand Mehta, LMFT, is a family therapist and Executive Director at A Mission for Michael Healthcare.