For years, the Mario universe has been synonymous with groundbreaking platforming, iconic characters, and a consistent stream of mainline hits that redefine the genre. Super Mario Bros., Super Mario 64, Super Mario Galaxy – these are the titans that immediately spring to mind. But tucked away in the vast Mushroom Kingdom archives are gems that, for various reasons, never quite received the same widespread acclaim. Until now.

Nintendo has been steadily expanding its Nintendo Switch Online library, offering a curated selection of classic titles to
subscribers. And just recently, a genuinely underrated Mario adventure made its much-anticipated debut: Super Mario Land 2: Six Golden Coins.

For those unfamiliar, Super Mario Land 2 might not be the first game you’d associate with the portly plumber. It’s not a 3D odyssey or a globe-trotting escapade. Instead, it’s a bold, creative leap forward for 2D Mario, a game that, despite its Game Boy origins, feels remarkably modern and brimming with personality.

Released in 1992, Super Mario Land 2 was a significant departure from its predecessor. While the original Super Mario Land offered a more streamlined experience, Six Golden Coins threw open the doors to a more ambitious and diverse world. The core gameplay remains pure Mario – run, jump, stomp – but the game introduces a fascinating hub world mechanic. Unlike previous titles where you progressed linearly through distinct zones, Six Golden Coins presents players with a central castle and six distinct themed worlds branching off from it.

This structural innovation was groundbreaking for its time. Each world – from the treacherous Turtle Zone and the eerie Space Zone to the fiery Mario Zone (a meta-commentary on Mario’s own universe!) and the surprisingly challenging Tree Zone – offers a unique aesthetic, distinct enemy types, and a memorable boss battle. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh and encourages exploration.

But what truly elevates Super Mario Land 2 is its sheer creativity and willingness to experiment. The introduction of Wario as a playable antagonist (and later a protagonist in his own spin-off series) is arguably its most lasting legacy. He’s not just a generic bad guy; he’s a greedy, selfish counterpart to Mario, and his presence adds a delightful layer of character to the narrative. The game also introduces new power-ups, like the Bouncy Mushroom which allows Mario to jump higher, and the iconic Carrot, which transforms him into a rabbit with a helicopter-like ability to glide through the air. These power-ups aren’t just cosmetic; they fundamentally change how you approach platforming challenges.

Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of Super Mario Land 2 is its level design. While not as complex as some later 2D Mario titles, the levels are cleverly constructed, often featuring hidden paths, secrets, and environmental puzzles that reward attentive players. The boss fights are also particularly memorable, each requiring a specific strategy to overcome.

So why was this game, with its innovative mechanics and charming personality, considered “underrated”? For many, the Game Boy’s limitations and its association with the handheld market might have overshadowed its true brilliance. It didn’t have the generational impact of Super Mario 64 or the graphical prowess of Super Mario Galaxy. Yet, for those who played it back in the day, Super Mario Land 2 remains a fondly remembered experience, a testament to Nintendo’s ability to innovate even within the constraints of a portable console.

Now, thanks to Nintendo Switch Online, a new generation of players has the chance to discover this gem. The convenience of playing it on the Switch, both on the go and docked, makes it more accessible than ever before. It’s an opportunity to revisit a piece of Mario history that deserves to be appreciated for its own merits, not just in comparison to its more celebrated brethren.

If you’re a Mario fan who’s exhausted the mainline entries, or simply curious about the evolution of the series, Super Mario Land 2: Six Golden Coins is an absolute must-play. It’s a delightful reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding adventures can be found in the most unexpected corners of the Mushroom Kingdom, and it’s fantastic to see this underrated star finally get the spotlight it deserves on the Nintendo Switch. So, fire up your Switch, dive into the Nintendo Switch Online service, and prepare to be charmed by a Mario game that’s been waiting patiently for its second act. You won’t be disappointed.