Mario and friends play all sorts of sports together, and golf is no exception. In fact, the plumber's first golf outing — Mario Golf — is now available as part of the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. The most recent game in the series, Mario Golf: Super Rush, is also available on the Switch, but there are still reasons to go back to the original Mario Golf.

It is seemingly counterintuitive to opt for the first Mario Golf game as opposed to the newest, but each game has its advantages. Super Rush brings tons of new features to the table, but even it lacks some modes from the original. Maybe it comes down to the price point and not wanting to fully commit to a new, full-priced game. Either way, the original Mario Golf is a great option for new and old players alike.

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Mario's First Golf Outing

Mario Golf (N64)

Mario Golf may be nearly 23 years old at this point, but it's arcade-style golf gameplay is still seen in game's like Super Rush and Everybody's Golf today. That means there should be no worries gameplay-wise when it comes to picking the older of the two games. On top of this, Mario Golf has tons of modes for players to try out.

Mario Golf has a few singleplayer modes, like the 30-golfer tournament (with 29 golfers controlled by CPU), or speed golf, in which players must complete 18 holes as quick as possible. The new Switch Online release even supports online multiplayer. This carries over to modes like the beloved mini-golf mode, something which the newer Super Rush lacks. To some players, the inclusion of mini-golf is more than enough of a reason to opt for the original.

Gameplay and modes aside, there is a heavy nostalgia bias to the original Mario Golf. The N64 is loved by fans, with many current Switch gamers having grown up with it. While Super Rush might be the newest game in the series, nothing is quite like going back to a childhood favorite.

The Joys of Mario Golf Super Rush

Mario Golf Super Rush

It is clear that Mario Golf has its own merits, but Super Rush is a great option for those looking to get into the series/a new golfing experience. Being about 20 years newer, Super Rush has more advanced graphics than the original, though some players still prefer the original's soundtrack. While there is no mini-golf, Super Rush still touts some unique game modes.

First and foremost, Mario Golf has a dedicated story mode, which is usually reserved for the series' handheld titles. In it, players take control of their Mii avatar and journey through various golf courses and clubhouses to become the best golfer out there. There is also a fully revamped speed golf mode. Instead of just completing courses as quickly as possible, players must race each other to each hole and attempt to interrupt others from doing so, a la Mario Kart. There is also battle golf and target golf — Super Rush clearly has variety.

Despite this, some may be wary of Super Rush's full, $60 price tag, especially if they are newcomers to golf games. The Switch Online Expansion Pack costs $10 less, albeit an annual charge, but also grants players access to a growing list of N64 classics. This Expansion Pack definitely makes Mario Golf more accessible, especially for players who just want to try it out before fully committing to it.

Mario Golf and the newer Super Rush are both strong options for those looking for some arcade-style golf gameplay. While Super Rush may be more visually appealing and have a larger variety of game modes, the original Mario Golf still has its own appeal and is slightly more accessible for players to try. Either way, Mario Golf should not be counted out just because it is the older title.

Mario Golf is available now on N64 and Nintendo Switch.

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