Mario Day Essentials: Games, Gear, and Ideas for the Ultimate Celebration

Every year on March 10, Nintendo fans rally around Mario Day (MAR10) to celebrate the world’s most famous plumber. Whether you’ve grown up with the Super Mario Bros. series or you’re introducing the Mushroom Kingdom to a new generation, it’s the perfect excuse to revisit beloved adventures, upgrade your Nintendo Switch setup, and share the joy with friends and family.

This guide walks through a complete Mario Day starter kit: must-play games, recommended hardware, fun accessories, and simple celebration ideas. The aim is to give you inspiration, not a rigid checklist—pick and choose what fits your budget, your space, and your style of play.

Why Mario Day Matters to Gamers

Mario is more than a character; he’s effectively a mascot for modern gaming. Nintendo’s Mario games helped define side-scrolling platformers in the 1980s, influenced 3D game design in the 1990s, and continue to shape family-friendly gaming today. Nintendo itself has highlighted Mario’s status as a symbol of the company across decades of consoles, from the NES to the Switch. The ongoing success of Mario titles on the Nintendo Switch, which has sold over 140 million units worldwide according to Nintendo’s financial reports, shows how relevant the series remains for both new and returning players.¹

Mario Day is a convenient moment to:

• Jump into a Mario adventure you missed at launch.
• Upgrade worn-out controllers and Joy-Con.
• Refresh your setup with themed accessories and storage.
• Plan a cozy game night or a big family competition.

Core Mario Games to Anchor Your Celebration

Building a Mario Day starter pack starts with the games themselves. The idea isn’t to own everything; it’s to pick a mix that matches how you like to play: solo, co-op, competitive, or party-style.

Essential Single-Player Adventures

If you’re celebrating solo—or you want a story-driven experience—start with a flagship Mario platformer. These games distill what people associate with Mario: tight controls, clever level design, and hidden secrets around every corner.

• 3D Mario platformer: Choose a modern 3D adventure to showcase what the Nintendo Switch can do. Expect large hub worlds or open levels, a mix of platforming challenges, and plenty of collectibles to chase after you’ve rolled the credits.
• Traditional side-scroller: A 2D platformer offers a different rhythm—snappier levels, instantly familiar mechanics, and an easy pick-up-and-play structure ideal for shorter sessions.

To keep things varied, pair one 3D title with one 2D title. That way you have a longer epic to settle into and a more bite-sized game for quick sessions or local co-op.

Co-op and Family-Friendly Picks

Mario is at his best when shared. Modern entries in the series often allow multiple players to jump in with minimal setup. If you’ll have family or friends around on Mario Day, consider games where everyone can participate:

• Four-player platformer: Look for a side-scrolling Mario game that supports up to four players locally. These games are accessible even for younger children because you can revive each other and experiment without severe penalties.
• Mario puzzle or building game: A game that lets you create or remix levels is perfect for involving everyone. One person can design a course while others attempt to clear it, providing a blend of creativity and challenge.

Pro tip: Keep a co-op game handy that allows players to drop in and out easily. Guests can join for just a few levels without feeling like they’re interrupting a long campaign.

Party and Competitive Mario Games

For larger gatherings, party-style Mario games shine. They’re designed around short rounds, simple inputs, and chaos that lowers the skill barrier between seasoned players and newcomers.

Consider integrating at least one of the following into your Mario Day line-up:

• Mario party board game: These virtual board games mix mini-games with dice rolls. They’re ideal icebreakers for groups that don’t usually play together.
• Arcade sports or racing: A Mario sports title or kart racer works well when you want intense, quick matches. The best options support both couch co-op and online play.

If you’re planning an online celebration with friends in other locations, prioritize games with robust online modes so you can race, battle, or party remotely.

Nintendo Switch Hardware: Getting Your System Ready

Once you’ve settled on the games, it’s time to prepare your hardware. Mario Day can be a good moment to upgrade your console or add accessories that improve comfort and reliability.

Choosing the Right Switch Model

Nintendo currently offers multiple Switch configurations, each with different strengths. According to Nintendo’s official product specification pages, key differences involve screen size, battery life, and TV docking support.² The table below summarizes typical considerations:

If your Mario Day will center around the living room TV with multiple players, prioritize a model with docked output and detachable controllers. For on-the-go celebrations—road trips, travel, or local multiplayer on a small table—a handheld-focused device may be more convenient.

Extra Controllers and Joy-Con

Extra controllers are the foundation of any multiplayer Mario setup. Nintendo’s official support pages emphasize that most multiplayer titles on Switch support a variety of controller combinations, including pairs of Joy-Con, a single Joy-Con held horizontally, or a Pro-style controller.³

When building your Mario Day starter pack, consider:

• Joy-Con for flexibility: A second set of Joy-Con instantly doubles your player capacity for many titles, since each Joy-Con can function as its own controller in some games.
• Pro-style controller for comfort: For long platforming sessions or precision-based gameplay, a full-sized controller with a traditional layout can reduce hand fatigue.
• Themed controllers: Mario-themed color schemes—red shells, moustache icons, or Mushroom Kingdom motifs—add personality to your setup and make it easy to remember whose controller is whose.

Inspect your current controllers for drifting analog sticks, unresponsive buttons, or worn grips. Replacing or supplementing them before Mario Day helps avoid frustration when everyone is ready to play.

Accessories That Elevate Your Mario Day

You don’t need a pile of gear to enjoy Mario Day, but the right accessories can make your experience more comfortable, organized, and visually appealing.

Travel Cases and Storage

Protective cases serve two purposes: they shield your console when you’re on the move and keep cartridges or microSD cards in one place. Nintendo’s hardware documentation recommends carrying cases for portable use, especially if you travel frequently.²

For Mario Day, think about:

• Console case: Ideal if you’re taking your Switch to a friend’s house or on a weekend trip. Mario-themed cases often include pockets for game cards and accessories.
• Game card organizer: A small case for physical cartridges makes it easy to swap between Mario platformers, racers, and party games without hunting through boxes.
• Cable management: Simple cable ties or pouches keep HDMI, power, and controller charging cables organized, especially if you’re setting up in a shared living room.

Comfort and Display Enhancements

Long play sessions can be more enjoyable with a few ergonomic tweaks:

• Adjustable play stand: If you’re using your Switch in tabletop mode, a sturdier stand with adjustable angles can dramatically improve viewing comfort.
• Grips and thumb caps: Add-on grips can make handheld play more comfortable, while silicone thumb caps can help with precision and reduce wear on analog sticks.
• Screen protection: A tempered glass screen protector is a simple investment that helps prevent scratches from docking and travel.

These upgrades are not Mario-specific, but they support the kind of extended, social sessions that Mario Day often encourages.

Mario-Themed Merchandise and Decor

Part of the fun of Mario Day is embracing the aesthetic of the Mushroom Kingdom. Official Nintendo channels frequently promote Mario-themed merchandise around this time, from apparel to home decorations.⁴ You don’t need to turn your home into a full-scale warp zone, but a few touches can set the mood.

Wearable Mario Flair

Clothing and accessories are an easy way to get into character without going full cosplay. Popular options include:

• Mario and Luigi caps: Red and green hats instantly communicate the theme and work well in photos.
• Graphic T-shirts: Choose designs featuring classic sprites, power-up icons, or minimalist logos for a subtler nod.
• Character socks and lanyards: Small items like socks, pins, or lanyards make great party favors if you’re hosting guests.

Home Decor and Collectibles

Decorations can transform a regular game night into a themed celebration. Consider:

• Posters and wall art: Classic box art or stylized prints of the Mushroom Kingdom create an instant focal point.
• Figurines and amiibo: Character figures can act as table centerpieces and, in some cases, unlock in-game bonuses for supported software.
• Tabletop decorations: Question block boxes, coin cutouts, and star-shaped confetti can be placed around snacks and drinks for extra atmosphere.

Planning Your Mario Day: Activities and Ideas

The best Mario Day celebrations combine games, snacks, and a bit of structured fun. Here are ideas you can adapt to your group size, available time, and preferred level of planning.

Sample Mario Day Itinerary

Use this as a starting template and tweak as needed:

1. Warm-up (30–45 minutes): Short races or mini-games to get everyone familiar with the controls and loosen up.
2. Main session (1–2 hours): Work through a cooperative platforming world, taking turns or swapping players after each level.
3. Break (15–30 minutes): Mario-inspired snacks, drinks, and a chance to compare favorite levels, characters, or childhood memories.
4. Grand finale (1–2 hours): A tournament bracket in a Mario party or racing game, complete with a simple scoreboard.

Achievements and Challenges

Adding light challenges can create fun stories to remember after the day is over. Some ideas include:

• No power-up run: Try clearing a level without using any power-ups or taking damage. Rotate players until someone succeeds.
• Time attack races: Choose a stage and see who can complete it the fastest. Use a simple timer and record the best runs.
• Co-op coin rush: Work together to collect as many coins as possible across a set number of stages.

Offer small prizes for winners: printed certificates, homemade badges, or the honor of wearing the Mario cap during the next round.

Online and Remote Mario Day Options

Not everyone can gather in the same room, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip the festivities. Many recent Mario-related titles support online multiplayer. Nintendo emphasizes Nintendo Switch Online as the service underpinning these features, enabling online co-op, competitive modes, and cloud saves for supported titles.⁵

Tips for a smooth online Mario Day:

• Test connections in advance: Run a quick match or online lobby test with one friend before the main event to troubleshoot connection issues.
• Use voice chat or a group call: Even if you use an external voice app, hearing each other’s reactions significantly boosts the fun.
• Mix solo and group objectives: Set shared goals (e.g., everyone aims to unlock a certain character) even while playing in separate save files.

Budgeting and Prioritizing Your Mario Day Starter Pack

It’s easy to get carried away with themed gear and new releases. To keep things manageable, prioritize your spending in layers:

1. Layer 1 – Core experience: At least one flagship Mario game that you’re excited to play or replay, plus a working console and minimum controller setup.
2. Layer 2 – Multiplayer upgrades: Extra controllers, Joy-Con, or a comfortable couch setup if you plan to host others.
3. Layer 3 – Theming and decor: A few Mario-themed items—hats, shirts, posters—to bring the Mushroom Kingdom vibe to your space.
4. Layer 4 – Nice-to-have accessories: Cases, stands, grips, and collectible items that improve quality-of-life and long-term enjoyment.

Focus first on what will meaningfully change how you play, then add style and extras as your budget allows.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mario Day

What exactly is Mario Day and why is it on March 10?

Mario Day is an informal celebration of Nintendo’s Mario franchise held annually on March 10. The date was chosen because the written form “Mar 10” resembles the name “Mario.” Fans and companies use the day to highlight Mario games, merchandise, and community events.

Do I need a Nintendo Switch to celebrate Mario Day?

Most current Mario releases are on Nintendo Switch, so owning one gives you the broadest selection. However, you can still celebrate through older consoles, watching speedruns or retrospectives, wearing Mario-themed clothing, or hosting trivia and board games inspired by the series.

How many players can join a Mario game on one console?

It depends on the specific title. Many party and racing games support up to four players locally on a single Switch, while some competitive games support even more when combining local and online players. Check the game’s product page or in-box documentation for details.

Is Mario Day only for kids?

No. While Mario games are designed to be family-friendly, a large portion of the fandom consists of adults who grew up with earlier consoles. Mario Day can be adapted to any age group, from simple co-op sessions for young children to nostalgic tournaments for long-time fans.

How can I celebrate Mario Day on a tight budget?

Focus on the games you already own and add low-cost elements. Create homemade decorations, bake cookies shaped like stars or mushrooms, set in-game challenges, and host an online call with friends while you play. The essence of Mario Day is shared enjoyment, not expensive gear.

Bringing It All Together

A well-planned Mario Day starter pack doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a couple of carefully chosen games, a functional controller setup, and a few themed touches, you can create a memorable celebration of one of gaming’s most enduring icons. Whether you’re speedrunning solo, racing friends online, or guiding a younger player through their first jump into the Mushroom Kingdom, the goal is the same: to capture the sense of playful discovery that has kept Mario at the center of gaming culture for decades.