For many, the announcement of a new Mario game hitting Nintendo Switch Online conjures images of neon-bright worlds, iconic power-ups, and the thrill of the familiar. But tucked away amongst the blockbuster sequels and fan-favorite remasters, a quiet but significant arrival has recently graced the service: Super Mario Bros. 3: A Link to the Past.

Wait, Super Mario Bros. 3: A Link to the Past? No, that’s not quite right. It’s easy to get confused. But the game we’re talking about isn’t a mashup of genres, nor is it a forgotten SNES masterpiece. It’s a game that, for years, has been a curious footnote in the vast tapestry of the Mario universe, a game that many long-time fans might have overlooked, and one that now deserves a fresh wave of
appreciation on the Nintendo Switch.

The game in question is none other than Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars.

Yes, you read that right. After years of fervent fan wishes and endless speculation, this beloved, genre-bending RPG from the Super Nintendo era has finally made its way to Nintendo Switch Online. And frankly, it’s about time.

Why is Super Mario RPG so often relegated to “underrated” status? Perhaps it’s because it dared to step outside the platforming confines of its brethren. Developed in collaboration with Square (now Square Enix), Super Mario RPG took our portly plumber on an adventure that felt entirely new. Gone were the precise jumps and power-up-driven exploration, replaced by turn-based combat, character leveling, and a narrative that was far more involved than the usual “rescue the princess” trope.

This wasn’t just a Mario game with RPG elements tacked on; it was a fully realized RPG experience that just happened to star Mario. The gameplay was deceptively deep for its time, introducing a timed-hit system that rewarded skillful button presses with extra damage, a unique approach that added a layer of engagement to every battle. The progression system, while simple by today’s standards, felt incredibly satisfying, watching Mario, and his new companions, grow stronger and unlock new abilities.

And what companions they were! Super Mario RPG introduced a cast of characters that remain beloved to this day, each bringing their own distinct personality and combat style. From the boisterous Mallow with his cloud-based magic to the stoic Geno, a doll imbued with the spirit of a star, these characters felt like genuine additions to the Mario universe, not just temporary allies. Even Bowser himself gets a surprisingly sympathetic (and hilariously inept) turn as a playable party member.

The world of Super Mario RPG was also a revelation. While it retained the whimsical charm we expect from the Mushroom Kingdom, it also introduced new locales and enemies that felt fresh and exciting. The visual style, a delightful blend of Mario’s iconic look with Square’s artistic flair, was a feast for the eyes on the SNES, and it holds up remarkably well even now. The music, composed by the legendary Yoko Shimomura, is an absolute triumph, a soundtrack that perfectly complements the game’s adventure, humor, and heart.

Perhaps the most significant reason for its “underrated” label is its isolation. Super Mario RPG was a singular experience for the SNES. Unlike the main-line Mario platformers that spawned countless sequels and evolutions, Super Mario RPG remained a standalone title for decades. This made it a precious, almost mystical, memory for those who played it, but it also meant it didn’t have the continuous presence to solidify its place in the minds of the broader gaming public.

Now, with its arrival on Nintendo Switch Online, that era of relative obscurity is over. This is an opportunity for a new generation of Switch owners to discover why Super Mario RPG holds such a special place in the hearts of many. It’s a chance for veterans to relive a cherished memory with the convenience of modern hardware and the comfort of knowing it’s readily accessible.

So, if you’re looking for something beyond the typical platforming adventure, if you’re curious about a Mario game that dared to be different, or if you simply want to experience a piece of gaming history that has been unjustly overlooked, then make your way to Nintendo Switch Online. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is waiting, and it’s a journey well worth taking. Prepare to be charmed, surprised, and thoroughly entertained by this true gem of the Mushroom Kingdom.