“Mario Sports Superstars,” released in 2017 for the Nintendo 3DS, brought together five distinct sports—soccer, baseball, tennis, golf, and horse racing—into a single gaming experience. Developed collaboratively by Bandai Namco Studios and Camelot Software Planning, the game aimed to offer a comprehensive sports package featuring beloved characters from the Mario universe.
Game Overview
Each sport in “Mario Sports Superstars” is designed to provide a full-fledged experience rather than serving as a mere minigame. Players can engage in single-player tournaments, local multiplayer matches, and online multiplayer modes, allowing for both solo play and competitive gaming with others.
Soccer
The soccer mode features traditional 11-versus-11 matches, offering a more realistic approach compared to the arcade-style gameplay seen in titles like “Mario Strikers.” Players can select their team captains and customize formations, adding a strategic layer to the game. Special moves are available, but the focus remains on authentic soccer mechanics.
Baseball
In baseball, players can choose their teams and engage in matches that emphasize timing and strategy. Pitching involves selecting different types of throws to outsmart the batter, while batting requires precise timing to hit the ball effectively. Fielding is automated by default, but players have the option to switch to manual control for a more hands-on experience.
Tennis
The tennis mode offers singles and doubles matches, with gameplay mechanics reminiscent of previous Mario Tennis titles. Players can perform various shots, including lobs and star shots, to gain an advantage over their opponents. While the mode lacks special moves, it provides a solid tennis experience.
Golf
Golf features multiple courses, each with unique challenges. Players can select their clubs, adjust their swings, and account for factors like wind and terrain to successfully navigate each hole. The mode draws inspiration from earlier Mario Golf games, offering a familiar yet engaging experience.
Horse Racing
Horse racing is a novel addition to the Mario sports lineup. Players can choose from various horses, each with distinct attributes, and participate in races across different tracks. The game introduces a “herd” mechanic, encouraging players to stay close to other racers to recharge stamina more quickly. Additionally, players can care for their horses in a stable, enhancing their bond and performance.
amiibo Integration
“Mario Sports Superstars” supports amiibo functionality, allowing players to use amiibo cards to unlock new gear and boost their characters’ stats. At launch, specially marked packages included a randomly selected amiibo card, providing an extra layer of customization and progression.
Reception and Legacy
Upon release, “Mario Sports Superstars” received mixed reviews. Critics appreciated the variety of sports offered but noted that some modes lacked depth compared to standalone titles. The horse racing mode was highlighted as a standout feature, providing a fresh experience within the Mario sports genre.
As of April 8, 2024, the online multiplayer service for “Mario Sports Superstars” was terminated, limiting the game’s multiplayer functionality to local play. Despite this, the game remains a notable entry in the Mario sports series, offering a diverse range of sports experiences in one package.
Why “Mario Sports Superstars” Still Matters
Despite its mixed reviews, “Mario Sports Superstars” holds a special place in the broader Mario sports lineup for several reasons:
- A Comprehensive Sports Experience:
Few games attempt to merge five full-fledged sports into a single package. While it wasn’t perfect, the effort to create a game that catered to multiple preferences is commendable. For fans of the Mario franchise, it was an opportunity to see their favorite characters in various sports settings, with their unique abilities adding flair to the gameplay. - Accessibility for Casual Gamers:
The game’s straightforward mechanics make it appealing to younger players and those new to sports games. The addition of local multiplayer further amplified its accessibility, encouraging fun sessions among friends and family. - Horse Racing as a Unique Element:
Among Mario games, horse racing was a fresh concept. From managing a stable to collecting power-ups during races, this mode offered a blend of strategy and speed, providing a novel experience for players. - Crossroads of Amiibo Integration:
“Mario Sports Superstars” capitalized on the amiibo trend, introducing collectible cards that could be scanned to unlock special features. While opinions were divided on this feature, it marked a milestone in the way Nintendo experimented with integrating physical and digital elements. - Platform Significance:
Released during the twilight years of the Nintendo 3DS, the game demonstrated the system’s versatility. It also reflected Nintendo’s commitment to delivering engaging content for its dedicated handheld audience even as the industry transitioned toward hybrid gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch.
Looking Ahead: Mario Sports Games in the Future
While Mario Sports Superstars may not have set new benchmarks for sports games, it planted seeds for future iterations. Fans continue to hope for the return of some of its features—especially horse racing—in modern Mario sports titles. Nintendo has already revitalized individual sports games like Mario Tennis Aces and Mario Golf: Super Rush on the Switch, hinting that the company hasn’t abandoned the genre.
However, if Nintendo were to revisit the idea of combining multiple sports in one title, they could learn from the strengths and shortcomings of “Mario Sports Superstars”. Enhanced graphics, deeper gameplay mechanics, and stronger online integration could turn a similar concept into a massive success.
Final Thoughts
Mario Sports Superstars is a testament to Nintendo’s willingness to take risks. While it may not have been the definitive sports game fans were hoping for, its ambition and creativity deserve recognition. For anyone with a Nintendo 3DS, it remains a charming way to experience multiple sports with a Mario twist. And for those new to the game in 2024, it offers a nostalgic glimpse into the evolution of Mario sports titles over the years.
As gaming technology continues to advance, Mario Sports Superstars serves as a reminder that even experimental games can contribute to the legacy of one of the most iconic gaming franchises in history. Whether you’re a casual player or a Mario enthusiast, there’s something undeniably special about seeing Mario, Luigi, Peach, and the gang take on the field, the court, and even the racetrack.
FAQs about Mario Sports Superstars
What sports are included in Mario Sports Superstars?
The game features five sports: soccer, baseball, tennis, golf, and horse racing. Each sport offers a comprehensive experience with various modes and tournaments.
Is online multiplayer still available in Mario Sports Superstars?
No, Nintendo terminated the online multiplayer service for Mario Sports Superstars on April 8, 2024. Players can still enjoy local multiplayer modes.
How do I unlock Star and Superstar characters?
To unlock Star characters, complete the Champion’s Cup with the desired character in each sport. Superstar characters can be unlocked by winning the “Road to Superstar” minigame or by using compatible amiibo cards.
Does each player need a separate game cartridge for local multiplayer?
Yes, each player requires their own copy of the game for local multiplayer, as Mario Sports Superstars does not support Download Play.
What amiibo functionality is available in the game?
Mario Sports Superstars is compatible with amiibo cards, specifically the Mario Sports Superstars series. Scanning these cards can unlock Star characters and provide in-game bonuses.
Are there any unlockable characters or locations?
Yes, players can unlock characters like Metal Mario and Pink Gold Peach by meeting specific criteria in various sports. Additionally, each sport has unlockable locations achieved by winning the Star Cup in their respective sports.