What Is Super Mario Odyssey? (Quick Game Overview)
Few Nintendo games have reached the level of praise that Super Mario Odyssey has earned since its release. Even years later, it remains one of the best-selling and highest-rated Nintendo Switch exclusives ever made. Whether you are a longtime Mario fan or a new Switch owner, Super Mario Odyssey still feels fresh, creative, and incredibly fun in 2024. If you enjoy modern Nintendo adventures, you may also like exploring other top-tier Switch and RPG titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Hogwarts Legacy, and Octopath Traveler II, which offer different but equally immersive gameplay experiences.
Game at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
| Full Title | Super Mario Odyssey |
| Platform | Nintendo Switch |
| Release Date | October 27, 2017 |
| Developer | Nintendo EPD |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Genre | 3D Platformer / Open World Adventure |
| Age Rating | E for Everyone (ESRB) / 3+ (PEGI) |
| Metacritic Score | 97/100 (Nintendo Switch) |
| IGN Score | 10/10 |
Super Mario Odyssey Trailer & First Look
The original launch trailer immediately showed why the game generated so much hype. From the realistic New Donk City to colorful kingdoms filled with secrets, the game looked like a massive evolution of classic 3D Mario gameplay.
Some of the biggest highlights from the trailer include:
- Mario’s new companion, Cappy
- Character capture mechanics
- Large open-ended kingdoms
- Creative movement abilities
- Smooth Nintendo Switch visuals
The trailer also confirmed that exploration would play a much larger role compared to older Mario titles.
Super Mario Odyssey Reviews — What Critics Are Saying
Metacritic Score Breakdown
Super Mario Odyssey holds an impressive 97/100 Metacritic score, placing it among the highest-rated games of all time. Critics praised its creativity, level design, movement system, and replayability.
Compared to older Mario classics:
- Super Mario Galaxy 2 also scored 97
- Super Mario Sunshine scored 92
- Odyssey is widely considered one of the best 3D platformers ever created
Critics consistently highlighted how every kingdom introduces fresh gameplay ideas without becoming repetitive.
IGN Super Mario Odyssey Review Summary
IGN awarded Super Mario Odyssey a perfect 10/10, praising the game’s creativity and freedom of exploration.
Key strengths noted by IGN included:
- Excellent platforming controls
- Endless gameplay variety
- Rewarding exploration
- Clever use of the Cappy mechanic
One small criticism mentioned by some reviewers is that the game can feel easier than older Mario titles, especially for experienced platformer players.
Super Mario Odyssey Reviews on Reddit
Community feedback on Reddit is overwhelmingly positive. Many players describe Odyssey as a “must-play” Nintendo Switch game.
Common positive themes include:
- Fun movement and traversal
- Addictive Power Moon collection
- Memorable soundtrack
- Huge amount of hidden content
Recurring complaints are relatively minor:
- Main story can be completed quickly
- Local co-op feels limited
- Some players wanted more challenge
Despite those criticisms, most players still consider it one of the best Nintendo Switch exclusives available.
Super Mario Odyssey Switch Reviews — Platform-Specific Feedback
Performance on the Nintendo Switch remains excellent even in 2024.
Docked Mode
- Sharp visuals on TV
- Stable performance
- Bright and colorful environments
Handheld Mode
- Smooth frame rate
- Great portability
- Minor visual downgrades compared to docked mode
The game also works well on newer Nintendo hardware through backward compatibility support.
My Honest Super Mario Odyssey Review
First Impressions — Is the Hype Justified?
After the first few hours, it becomes clear why this game received so much praise. The controls feel responsive immediately, and movement is easily one of the strongest aspects of the experience.
Mario’s animations are fluid, kingdoms are packed with personality, and exploration constantly rewards curiosity.
The learning curve is beginner-friendly, but mastering advanced movement techniques takes practice.
Gameplay & Mechanics Deep Dive
The gameplay is where Super Mario Odyssey truly shines. Similar innovative gameplay systems can also be seen in action-adventure titles like Ratchet & Clank (PS4), Spyro Reignited Trilogy, and more story-driven adventure games such as Raji: An Ancient Epic.
The Cappy Mechanic
Cappy completely changes how Mario gameplay works. By throwing Cappy at enemies or objects, players can temporarily “capture” them and use their abilities.
Examples include:
- Controlling frogs for higher jumps
- Becoming Bullet Bills for flying sections
- Taking over tanks for combat puzzles
This mechanic keeps gameplay fresh throughout the adventure.
Kingdom Exploration and World Design
Each kingdom feels unique and memorable. Unlike linear Mario games, Odyssey encourages free exploration.
Some standout kingdoms include:
- Metro Kingdom
- Sand Kingdom
- Luncheon Kingdom
- Seaside Kingdom
The semi-open structure allows players to discover secrets naturally instead of following a strict path.
Mission Structure and Pacing
Power Moons replace traditional stars, and there are over 880 collectibles in total. Players are rarely forced into repetitive gameplay because objectives constantly change.
Is Super Mario Odyssey Open World?
Super Mario Odyssey is not fully open world, but it is considered semi-open world. Each kingdom acts as a large sandbox area with multiple objectives and hidden secrets.
Storyline Overview (Spoiler-Free)
The story centers around Bowser attempting to force Princess Peach into marriage while Mario and Cappy travel across kingdoms to stop him.
The narrative is simple but charming. Cappy and Tiara add emotional depth, while the humor and visual presentation keep things entertaining throughout the journey.
The story itself is not groundbreaking, but it serves the gameplay perfectly.
Graphics & Audio Performance
Visually, Super Mario Odyssey remains impressive for Nintendo Switch hardware.
Highlights include:
- Bright and colorful environments
- Creative art direction
- Smooth animations
- Excellent visual variety
The soundtrack is equally memorable. Tracks like “Jump Up, Super Star!” became instant fan favorites.
Performance remains stable in both handheld and docked modes, with only occasional minor dips during chaotic scenes.
Replayability & Post-Game Content
Replay value is one of the game’s biggest strengths. Games with strong replay value like this are also seen in franchises such as Fire Emblem: Three Houses – Cindered Shadows, Pokémon Omega Ruby, and Super Mario 3D All-Stars, which also reward exploration and long-term engagement.
Post-game content includes:
- Hidden kingdoms
- Extra challenges
- Hundreds of additional Power Moons
- Harder platforming sections
Completionists can easily spend dozens of hours collecting everything.
Super Mario Odyssey Pros and Cons
What the Game Does Right
- ✅ Near-perfect 3D platformer mechanics
- ✅ Creative and diverse kingdom designs
- ✅ Cappy capture system adds fresh gameplay depth
- ✅ Suitable for all ages
- ✅ Excellent replay value with 880+ Power Moons
- ✅ Strong critical consensus with a 97 Metacritic score
Where the Game Falls Short
- ❌ Main story is relatively short
- ❌ No true online multiplayer mode
- ❌ Local co-op is limited
- ❌ Difficulty may feel too easy for veteran players
- ❌ No official sequel announced yet
Super Mario Odyssey Rating — How Does It Score?
Aggregate Rating Comparison Table
| Review Source | Score |
| Metacritic (Critic) | 97/100 |
| Metacritic (User) | 8.8/10 |
| IGN | 10/10 |
| GameSpot | 10/10 |
| OpenCritic | 97% Mighty |
| Reddit Community | Overwhelmingly Positive |
Super Mario Odyssey Age Rating — Is It Kid-Friendly?
Super Mario Odyssey is extremely family-friendly.
| Rating Board | Rating |
| ESRB | E for Everyone |
| PEGI | 3+ |
Content is limited to mild cartoon violence with no mature themes.
Recommended for:
- Kids
- Families
- Casual gamers
- First-time Nintendo players
Parents looking for a safe and enjoyable game for younger players can confidently choose Odyssey.
Multiplayer in Super Mario Odyssey — What You Need to Know
Is Super Mario Odyssey Multiplayer?
Yes, but only locally.
The game includes a 2-player co-op mode where:
- Player 1 controls Mario
- Player 2 controls Cappy
While fun for casual play, the co-op mode is fairly limited compared to dedicated multiplayer games.
Is Super Mario Odyssey Online Multiplayer?
No, Super Mario Odyssey does not include traditional online multiplayer.
Online functionality is limited to:
- Leaderboards
- Snapshot sharing
- Balloon World online challenges
Many fans still hope a future sequel will expand online features.
Super Mario Odyssey vs. Other Mario Titles
For players interested in comparing Nintendo’s evolution across generations, similar discussions appear in games like Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Super Mario Galaxy 2, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
Comparison Table — Mario Games on Nintendo Switch
| Game | Metacritic | Open World | Multiplayer | Release Year |
| Super Mario Odyssey | 97 | Semi-Open | Local Co-op | 2017 |
| Super Mario Galaxy 2 | 97 | No | No | 2010 |
| Super Mario Sunshine | 92 | No | No | 2002 |
| Super Mario Bros. Wonder | 93 | No | Online Co-op | 2023 |
Is Super Mario Odyssey Better Than Other Switch Games?
For many players, yes.
Odyssey consistently ranks among:
- The best Nintendo Switch exclusives
- The greatest Mario games ever made
- The top modern platformers available today
Its creativity, polish, and replay value still make it highly recommended in 2024 and 2025.
Super Mario Odyssey on Nintendo Switch — Buying Guide
Super Mario Odyssey Price in Pakistan & Global Markets
Pricing varies depending on region and edition.
Estimated Pricing
- Digital Nintendo eShop version: Standard AAA Nintendo pricing
- Pakistan physical copies: Usually higher due to imports
- Used copies: Often cheaper through local marketplaces
Where to Buy Super Mario Odyssey
You can purchase the game from:
- Nintendo eShop
- Gaming retailers
- Online marketplaces
- Nintendo Switch console bundles
Nintendo Switch Buying Options
| Option | Details |
| Nintendo Switch (Original) | Compatible — Full experience |
| Nintendo Switch Lite | Compatible — Handheld only |
| Nintendo Switch OLED | Compatible — Enhanced display |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | Backward compatible |
How Much Does a Nintendo Switch Cost?
Switch pricing depends on the model and region.
Common Options
- Switch Lite: Cheapest entry point
- Original Switch: Balanced option
- OLED Model: Best screen quality
- Switch 2: Higher-end modern option
Super Mario Odyssey 2 — What We Know
Is There a Super Mario Odyssey Sequel?
As of 2026, Nintendo has not officially announced Super Mario Odyssey 2.
However, fan demand remains extremely high. Rumors regularly appear online, but no confirmed release date currently exists.
Most speculation focuses on:
- Nintendo Switch 2 hardware
- Larger open worlds
- Expanded multiplayer features
Community Expectations & Wishlist
Fans commonly request:
- True online multiplayer
- More difficult post-game content
- New capture abilities
- Larger interconnected kingdoms
- Expanded customization systems
The community still considers Odyssey one of Nintendo’s strongest modern franchises.
About Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey is a critically acclaimed 3D platformer developed by Nintendo EPD and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. Released in 2017, the game follows Mario and his new companion Cappy as they travel across colorful kingdoms to stop Bowser’s wedding plans involving Princess Peach.
The game is known for its creative level design, smooth controls, and unique “capture” mechanic that allows Mario to control enemies and objects using Cappy. Each kingdom offers open-ended exploration, hidden collectibles, puzzles, and platforming challenges that keep gameplay fresh throughout the adventure.
Super Mario Odyssey received universal praise for its gameplay variety, visuals, soundtrack, and replay value. With hundreds of Power Moons to collect and plenty of post-game content, it remains one of the best Nintendo Switch exclusives and a must-play for platformer fans of all ages.
Super Mario Odyssey System Requirements
Since Super Mario Odyssey is a Nintendo Switch exclusive, it does not have traditional PC system requirements.
Minimum Requirements
| Component | Requirement |
| Console | Nintendo Switch / Switch Lite |
| Storage Space | Approx. 5.7 GB |
| Internet | Optional for updates/features |
| Controllers | Joy-Con or Pro Controller |
Recommended / Maximum Setup
| Component | Requirement |
| Console | Nintendo Switch OLED / Switch 2 |
| Display | TV Docked Mode or OLED Screen |
| Storage | 10 GB Free Space Recommended |
| Controller | Nintendo Switch Pro Controller |
| Internet | Stable connection for updates |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Answers to Common Questions
When did Super Mario Odyssey come out?
October 27, 2017
Is Super Mario Odyssey open world?
Semi-open world with large kingdoms
Is Mario Odyssey multiplayer?
Yes, local 2-player co-op only
Does Super Mario Odyssey have online multiplayer?
No traditional online mode
How old is Super Mario Odyssey?
Around 7–8 years old
Is Super Mario Odyssey worth it?
Yes, highly recommended
Is Super Mario Odyssey a 2-player game?
Yes, through Cappy co-op
What is Super Mario Odyssey’s age rating?
E for Everyone / PEGI 3+
Does Super Mario Odyssey have a sequel?
No official sequel yet
Is Super Mario Odyssey available on Switch 2?
Yes, through backward compatibility
Final Verdict — Is Super Mario Odyssey Worth Buying?
Who Should Buy It?
Super Mario Odyssey is perfect for:
- Casual gamers
- Families
- Nintendo Switch owners
- Fans of exploration-heavy platformers
- Players looking for a polished single-player adventure
Who Might Want to Skip It?
You may want to skip it if:
- You only play competitive online games
- You prefer very difficult platformers
- You are specifically waiting for a sequel
Overall Rating Summary
| Category | Score |
| Gameplay & Mechanics | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Story | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Graphics & Audio | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Replayability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Multiplayer | ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5 |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Overall | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.5/10 |
