This main entry in the celebrated platforming franchise, released in 2017, takes players on a massive, globe-trotting 3D adventure. The core premise involves the mustachioed hero joining forces with a new companion, Cappy, to traverse diverse and imaginative worlds far removed from the familiar Mushroom Kingdom. The primary objective centers on rescuing Princess Peach from an arranged marriage to Bowser, requiring players to power up their airship, the Odyssey, to pursue the villain across the globe.

Core Gameplay and Exploration

The gameplay loop revolves around exploration and collection. Players navigate expansive, sandbox-style Kingdoms, each offering unique environments, challenges, and secrets. The main collectible driving progression is the Power Moon, which fuels the Odyssey airship, unlocking access to new destinations.

What is the defining mechanic of this adventure?

The most significant addition to the gameplay is the ability to utilize Cappy, a sentient cap that grants Mario new powers. This mechanic allows Mario to capture and directly control a vast array of objects, animals, and enemies found throughout the worlds. Capturing a creature grants Mario access to that entity's unique abilities, fundamentally changing how players interact with the environment to solve puzzles, traverse obstacles, and engage in combat.

Platforming and Movement

While retaining classic jumping and acrobatic maneuvers, the introduction of Cappy enhances Mario's movement set significantly. Players must master new combinations of jumps, cap throws, and captures to reach hidden areas and discover secrets scattered across the large maps.

Setting and Atmosphere

This title emphasizes variety in its setting. Instead of sticking to one consistent theme, the journey takes players through numerous distinct Kingdoms, ranging from realistic urban landscapes to natural environments and fantastical locales. This diversity ensures that the visual style and challenges constantly evolve as the adventure progresses.

Content Availability

As a main release title, this game does not currently feature any official downloadable content (DLCs) or major expansions. The core experience is complete as released.

What platforms support this adventure?

This title was initially released on the Nintendo Switch and remains available on that platform, with future compatibility planned for the Nintendo Switch 2.