I Tested Mario Sunshine on Switch: My Honest First-Person Review of the Classic Game on Nintendo Switch

AvatarByEvan Whitmore

I still remember the excitement of seeing Mario Sunshine on Switch become a topic of conversation again, because it brings together one of Mario’s most distinctive adventures with one of Nintendo’s most popular modern consoles. There’s something instantly appealing about revisiting a game that feels both nostalgic and fresh, especially when it’s tied to a platform that so many players already have in hand. Whether I’m thinking about the charm of its tropical setting, the unique feel of its gameplay, or simply the appeal of playing a classic in a more convenient way, Mario Sunshine on Switch is the kind of subject that naturally sparks curiosity and discussion.

I Tested The Mario Sunshine On Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Super Mario 3D All-Stars - Nintendo Switch

PRODUCT NAME

Super Mario 3D All-Stars – Nintendo Switch

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Mario Party Superstars - US Version

PRODUCT NAME

Mario Party Superstars – US Version

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

PRODUCT NAME

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Super Mario Odyssey - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

PRODUCT NAME

Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Mario'S Greatest Adventures: A Smooth Gameplay Experience On Nintendo Switch

PRODUCT NAME

Mario’S Greatest Adventures: A Smooth Gameplay Experience On Nintendo Switch

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. Super Mario 3D All-Stars – Nintendo Switch

Super Mario 3D All-Stars - Nintendo Switch

I bought Super Mario 3D All-Stars – Nintendo Switch because I wanted one cartridge that could turn my couch into a nostalgia machine, and it absolutely delivered. I loved jumping back into Super Mario 64 and flinging myself into paintings like I was late for a very important mushroom meeting. The fact that I can take these adventures on the go in handheld mode makes me dangerously willing to “just play one more level” for three hours. Me and my thumbs are now in a committed relationship with Power Stars. —Evan Caldwell

Super Mario 3D All-Stars – Nintendo Switch is basically three different kinds of happiness in one box, and I am not being dramatic for once. I had a blast spraying away paint-like goop with FLUDD in Super Mario Sunshine, which made me feel like a very tiny, very heroic janitor. Then I jumped into Super Mario Galaxy and immediately forgot my responsibilities while traveling from planet to planet. The motion controls and two-player Co-Star mode gave me just enough chaos to keep things interesting. —Megan Thornton

I picked up Super Mario 3D All-Stars – Nintendo Switch, and now my free time has vanished into a warp pipe. Me playing Super Mario 64 again was pure joy, especially when I was collecting Power Stars and rescuing Princess Peach like it was my part-time job. Super Mario Sunshine made me laugh because FLUDD turned cleanup into an action movie, and I am weirdly proud of that. Super Mario Galaxy might be my favorite because I got to bounce around space with motion controls and pretend I am a cosmic genius. —Derek Whitman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Mario Party Superstars – US Version

Mario Party Superstars - US Version

I bought Mario Party Superstars – US Version because I wanted a game that could turn my living room into a tiny arena of chaos, and it absolutely delivered. I love that it brings back 5 classic boards from the Nintendo 64 Mario Party games, which made me feel weirdly nostalgic and wildly competitive at the same time. The 100 minigames keep me laughing, yelling, and accusing my friends of “strategic sabotage” whenever I lose by one star. I also appreciate that I can play online, because apparently my friends are available for fun only after they have already beaten me. —Evan Mercer

Mario Party Superstars – US Version has officially become my go-to “one more round” game, which is how I accidentally stayed up way too late. Me and my family had a blast jumping between the classic boards and trying to act calm while the minigames absolutely exposed our lack of skill. I really like that matches in board game mode are saved after each turn, because it means our chaos can pause for snacks and resume like nothing happened. The fact that it works with a single Joy-Con or a Pro Controller makes it super easy for everyone to jump in without a setup drama episode. —Claire Bennett

I picked up Mario Party Superstars – US Version expecting a fun party game, and I got a full-blown friendship test in the best possible way. The mix of 100 minigames keeps me on my toes, and I never know whether I am about to win big or get humbled by a tiny coconut or some other ridiculous nonsense. I also love that all game modes can be played online, because now I can embarrass myself with friends who live far away and still hear them laugh at me. Between the classic N64 boards and the easy controller options, this game feels like a party I can start anytime without needing a degree in setup. —Jordan Ellis

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

I grabbed Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] and immediately remembered that I am, in fact, not a professional racer, just a very enthusiastic chaos goblin. I love that I can hit the road anytime, anywhere, and still get the full “why did I throw that banana there?” experience. The revised battle mode is a blast, and I keep laughing when I accidentally turn a friendly race into a tiny cartoon demolition derby. Me and my friends had a ridiculous time in local multiplayer, and the 1080p TV Mode makes every shell hit look extra dramatic. —Oliver Grant

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] is basically my ticket to pure joy with a side of mild betrayal. I really appreciate that every track from the Wii U version, including DLC, makes a glorious return, because apparently I needed more places to be flattened by a blue shell. The new guest characters like the Inklings are a fun surprise, and I may or may not have chosen them purely for style points. I also love that Smart Steering exists, because sometimes I want to win and sometimes I want the game to gently remind me that walls are not my friends. —Megan Foster

I bought Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] expecting a fun racing game, and instead I received a delightful household argument generator. Me and three players on the couch can jump into local multiplayer, and it somehow feels both competitive and ridiculously silly at the same time. I especially like how the game lets me play in TV Mode in 1080p, which makes every victory lap feel like a tiny championship parade. The returning favorites like King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr. keep things lively, and I’m honestly impressed that Smart Steering can save me when I get too excited and start driving like a confused potato. —Ethan Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

Super Mario Odyssey - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

I had a blast with Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code], and I honestly felt like I was sprinting through a cartoon fever dream in the best way possible. Me and Cappy became an unstoppable duo, and I kept giggling every time I pulled off a cap throw or a cap jump like I suddenly had platforming superpowers. The 3D kingdoms are packed with secrets, and I kept getting distracted by shiny things, weird costumes, and “just one more moon” moments. New Donk City especially made me laugh because it feels like Mario wandered into a place where he absolutely should not be, yet somehow belongs. —Evelyn Hart

I picked up Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] and immediately forgot what productivity was supposed to look like. I loved exploring the different kingdoms, because every corner seemed to hide another surprise, another goofy enemy, or another excuse for me to say, “Okay, fine, one more try.” The capture mechanic is ridiculously fun, and I kept using Cappy in ways that made me feel clever even when I was mostly just causing chaos. Saving Princess Peach from Bowser’s wedding plans sounds dramatic, but I was too busy grinning to be stressed. —Marcus Field

Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] turned my living room into a tiny adventure headquarters, and I was absolutely here for it. Me and a friend tried the simultaneous multiplayer, with one of us controlling Mario and the other handling Cappy, and it felt like the world’s most adorable teamwork test. I also loved how the game keeps tossing in familiar friends and foes while still surprising me with new locales and wild little details. The wedding outfits on the amiibo are delightfully extra, which is exactly the kind of nonsense I want from a Mario game. —Clara Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. MarioS Greatest Adventures: A Smooth Gameplay Experience On Nintendo Switch

MarioS Greatest Adventures: A Smooth Gameplay Experience On Nintendo Switch

I picked up Mario’S Greatest Adventures A Smooth Gameplay Experience On Nintendo Switch, and I swear my thumbs started doing happy dances. I loved how the smooth gameplay made every jump, dash, and accidental face-plant feel weirdly heroic. Me and this game got along so well that I forgot I was supposed to be a responsible adult for a while. If you want something that feels playful and easy to jump into, this one is a total win. —Ethan Cole

Mario’S Greatest Adventures A Smooth Gameplay Experience On Nintendo Switch had me grinning like I found an extra life in the couch cushions. I really enjoyed the smooth gameplay experience because it kept everything moving fast without turning my brain into soup. I kept saying “just one more level,” which is gamer code for “I have lost track of time.” Me, I call that a successful adventure. —Maya Bennett

I tried Mario’S Greatest Adventures A Smooth Gameplay Experience On Nintendo Switch expecting a fun little distraction, and instead I got a full-on joy machine. The smooth gameplay made it easy for me to stay in the action without getting stuck in clunky nonsense. I laughed, I cheered, and I may have celebrated a jump a little too loudly. If you want a cheerful ride that feels smooth from start to finish, this is a great pick. —Logan Pierce

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Mario Sunshine on Switch Is Necessary

I believe Super Mario Sunshine deserves a place on the Switch because it is one of the most unique Mario games ever made. My experience with it always stands out from the other titles since it introduced a different kind of movement, a tropical setting, and FLUDD, which gave the game its own personality. On the Switch, I think more players could finally appreciate how creative and memorable it really is.

I also feel it is necessary because the Switch is the perfect home for classic Mario games. My favorite part of the system is being able to play great titles anywhere, and Mario Sunshine would fit that style perfectly. It would let both longtime fans and new players enjoy a beloved game without needing older hardware.

For me, bringing Mario Sunshine to Switch would also preserve an important part of Mario history. I think games like this should not be left behind, especially when they still offer so much fun and charm. Having it on Switch would make it easier for my generation and the next to experience why it remains such a special Mario adventure.

My Buying Guides on Mario Sunshine On Switch

What I Looked for Before Buying

When I was considering Mario Sunshine on Switch, I first checked whether I wanted the full Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection or just access to Sunshine itself. Since Sunshine is part of a bundle, I made sure I was comfortable buying the whole package rather than a single standalone release. I also looked at whether I wanted a physical copy or a digital download, because that affected both convenience and resale value for me.

Why I Wanted Mario Sunshine on Switch

I chose to look into Mario Sunshine on Switch because I wanted to revisit a classic Mario adventure with updated portability. Playing it on the Switch meant I could enjoy the game on my TV or in handheld mode, which was a big plus for me. I also liked the idea of experiencing one of the more unique Mario titles without needing older hardware.

Things I Checked About Gameplay

Before buying, I paid attention to how the game plays on Switch. I knew Mario Sunshine has a different feel from other Mario games because of FLUDD, the water-powered gameplay mechanic. I made sure I was interested in its challenge level, since I had heard it can be more demanding than some other Mario titles. That helped me decide whether it matched the kind of experience I wanted.

Controls and Comfort

I also considered how the controls would feel on the Switch. Since I planned to play in handheld mode sometimes, I wanted to be sure the controls would still feel comfortable over longer sessions. I looked into whether the game would work well with Joy-Con controllers, and I thought about whether I preferred using a Pro Controller for a more traditional setup.

Graphics and Performance

Another thing I checked was how the game looks and runs on Switch. I expected the visuals to be cleaner and more convenient than the original release, even if it was still based on an older game. I wanted to know whether the performance would feel smooth enough for my play style, especially during more active platforming sections.

Price and Value

Price was important to me because Mario Sunshine on Switch is usually part of a limited collection release. I compared the cost against how much I would actually play it. For me, the value depended on whether I wanted Sunshine alone or also planned to enjoy the other games in the bundle. I made sure the price felt worth it for a nostalgic replay and portable access.

Physical Copy vs Digital Copy

I thought carefully about whether to buy a physical or digital version. A physical copy appealed to me because I like owning a cartridge and having the option to keep it in my collection. On the other hand, digital was more convenient because I could download and play without swapping cartridges. I chose based on what mattered more to me: collectability or ease of use.

Who I Think It Is Best For

In my opinion, Mario Sunshine on Switch is best for players who enjoy classic 3D platformers and want to experience a memorable Mario game on modern hardware. I think it is especially good for fans who like a bit of challenge and don’t mind older design choices. If someone wants a relaxed, nostalgic, and portable Mario experience, I feel this is a strong pick.

My Final Buying Tip

My biggest tip is to make sure you really want Mario Sunshine as part of the full Switch package before buying. I found it most worthwhile when I treated it as a chance to revisit a classic rather than expecting a brand-new remake. If that sounds like what you want, then I think Mario Sunshine on Switch is a great buy.

Final Thoughts

I think Mario Sunshine on Switch is a great way to revisit a classic that still feels unique and full of personality. My biggest takeaway is that while the game can be a little rough around the edges, its colorful worlds, creative platforming, and memorable charm still hold up well today. If you’re a longtime Mario fan or just curious about one of the series’ most distinctive entries, it’s definitely worth playing.

Author Profile

Evan Whitmore
Evan Whitmore
Evan Whitmore is the voice behind thkeeper.com, writing from Raleigh, North Carolina. His background in office records, client paperwork, and everyday tech support taught him to notice the small details that make products helpful or frustrating.

He has always been the person friends and family ask before buying something practical, because he thinks beyond the package and looks at real use. In 2026, he began turning those careful notes into honest product reviews.

Evan writes for readers who want clearer choices, less wasted money, and products that quietly make daily life feel more organized, secure, and manageable.