Looking to find out which Mario Party game stands above the rest? This Mario Party tier list ranks every game in the franchise, from the classic N64 titles to the latest releases. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, this list breaks down the best and worst Mario Party games, helping you decide which ones are worth playing.
Table of Contents
Mario Party Tier List
S-Tier: The Pinnacle of Partying (Mario Party Tier List)
Mario Party 2 (N64)
If you ask longtime fans, Mario Party 2 is hands-down the best game in the series. Released on the N64, it builds on the formula established in the first Mario Party by introducing items that add strategic depth. The minigames are fun and fair, while the themed costumes for each board give the game a distinct personality. It is a timeless classic and a must-play for any fan of multiplayer party games.
Mario Party 6 (GameCube)
The standout feature of Mario Party 6 is its day-night cycle, which changes the board’s paths and challenges based on the time of day. This mechanic keeps gameplay fresh and exciting. The GameCube title also introduced a microphone feature, which added new layers of interaction. With its strong selection of boards and minigames, Mario Party 6 is considered one of the most innovative entries in the franchise.
Mario Party Superstars (Switch)
Mario Party Superstars is a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern gaming. It brings back iconic boards and minigames from the N64 era, making it a fan favorite. Enhanced with beautiful graphics and online play, Mario Party Superstars is ideal for both new players and those wanting to relive the best of Mario Party history.
A-Tier: Excellent, But Not Quite Perfect (Mario Party Tier List)
Mario Party 3 (N64)
Mario Party 3 is packed with memorable minigames and the introduction of the single-player Story Mode. The game builds on the item system introduced in Mario Party 2, giving players more control over their strategy. While it’s not quite as iconic as its predecessor, it’s still a solid entry in the series.
Mario Party 7 (GameCube)
What makes Mario Party 7 stand out is the inclusion of an eight-player mode, which can make for chaotic, fun-filled sessions. It reintroduces the microphone minigames and adds exciting new boards. While it didn’t break as much new ground as earlier GameCube titles, it remains an excellent game for large multiplayer gatherings.
Mario Party 5 (GameCube)
While Mario Party 5 introduced the capsule system, which lets players set traps for others or gain new items, it is the minigames that stand out most. The game is enjoyable in multiplayer but lacks the standout features of some of its successors.
B-Tier: Fun, With Some Flaws
Mario Party (N64)
The game that started it all! Mario Party established the franchise’s unique blend of board game mechanics and minigames. While its legacy is undeniable, the game’s punishing mechanics—such as control stick-spinning minigames that led to hand blisters—prevent it from ranking higher. Still, it’s a nostalgic favorite for many.
Mario Party 4 (GameCube)
Mario Party 4 marks the series’ first entry on the GameCube and, while fun, it feels more like a transitional game. The minigames are great, but it didn’t innovate as much as later GameCube entries, making it a solid, if not standout, addition to the series.
Mario Party 8 (Wii)
The motion controls of the Wii make Mario Party 8 a unique experience. However, the novelty wears off quickly, and the game’s overall design feels less polished compared to earlier entries. It’s fun, especially in short bursts, but doesn’t quite live up to the heights of its GameCube predecessors.
C-Tier: Playable, But Not Memorable
Mario Party DS
Mario Party DS makes a decent attempt to bring the franchise’s fun to a handheld format. While it features strong minigames, the smaller boards and hardware limitations prevent it from being as exciting as the console versions. It’s still enjoyable, especially for fans on the go.
Mario Party 9 (Wii)
Mario Party 9 introduced the controversial car mechanic, where all players move together on the board. While it made the game faster and more streamlined, many fans missed the competitive nature of individual movement. The minigames remained enjoyable, but the change in direction was divisive among longtime fans.
Read also: EDF6 Mods Step By Step 2024
D-Tier: Not Worth Your Time
Mario Party 10 (Wii U)
Mario Party 10 doubled down on the car mechanic from Mario Party 9, which continued to alienate fans of the traditional gameplay. The boards felt uninspired, and although the addition of Bowser Party mode was a fun twist, it wasn’t enough to elevate this entry.
Mario Party: Island Tour (3DS)
Despite being a portable entry, Mario Party: Island Tour didn’t capture the magic of the mainline games. The minigames felt uninspired, and the overall gameplay loop was unmemorable, making it one of the weaker entries in the franchise.
Read also: KH2 Walkthrough 2024: Easy Way to Win
Final Words
The Mario Party series has been delivering fun and chaos for over two decades. While some games stand as all-time classics (Mario Party 2, Mario Party 6), others missed the mark (Mario Party 10). If you’re looking to revisit the series or dive in for the first time, this tier list should guide you toward the best Mario Party games. Whether you’re playing alone or with friends, Mario Party promises hours of laughter and competition.
Did we miss your favorite Mario Party game? Let us know your personal tier list in the comments below!
