Ranking the Top 5 Minigames in Super Mario RPG: A Trip Down Memory Lane

For nearly four decades, Nintendo's Super Mario has not only dominated the platforming genre but has also emerged as an unexpected icon in the RPG field. This success is primarily due to Super Nintendo's bestseller, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars. With a modern remake of this classic game set to be released on the Switch in November, fans are already speculating about the minigames we might see making a comeback. Let's take a look at some of the best minigames from the original Super Mario RPG and rank them from 5 to 1.

5. Sergeant Flutter Speed Trial

The Sergeant Flutter Speed Trial is an example of how Super Mario RPG brilliantly converts a compulsory game task into an optional minigame. To access Bean Valley, Mario needs to climb a massive wall by hopping on the shells of Sergeant Flutter's Red Paratroopa squadron. This process not only utilizes Mushroom Kingdom's enemies and geography in a clever way but also transforms into an exhilarating speed challenge. Players can repeat this aerial obstacle and earn extra rewards, such as a Troopa Pin, based on their top speeds.

4. Beetle Race

The Beetle Race minigame is another example of Super Mario RPG's ability to turn a mission into a minigame. Set between Seaside Town and Booster Hill, this game is unlocked when Mario obtains a Beetle Box, allowing him to participate in one of the region's favorite pastimes - Beetle Race. The gaming challenge involves Mario climbing Booster Hill while dodging and bouncing off barrels and Snifits to catch beetles. Nonetheless, this minigame falls short on sophistication compared to other Super Mario RPG minigames and requires the purchase of a new Beetle Box for each play.

3. Goomba Thumping

Continuing with our ranking, the Goomba Thumping minigame introduces players to an enjoyable, yet challenging task. Mario must jump on Goombas' heads in a specific order as they pop out of four pipes to earn points. The catch is, the order is determined by a tune played by Toadofsky. The challenge increases with each level, making this a fun and engaging minigame that tests players' memory and reflexes.

2. Yoshi's Race

At number seven, we have Yoshi's Race. In this minigame, Mario rides on Yoshi's back to race against Boshi, another dinosaur. Players must tap the 'A' and 'B' buttons in a rhythmic pattern to increase Yoshi's speed. The player who crosses the finish line first wins. This minigame not only brings a sense of competition but also tests players' timing and rhythm.

1. Mushroom Derby

Finally, at number six, we have the Mushroom Derby. This is a betting game where Mario must predict which Yoshi will win the race. Players place bets using their coins, and if their predicted Yoshi wins, they receive a hefty reward. This game adds an element of risk and excitement to Super Mario RPG and requires players to make calculated decisions based on Yoshis' performance in previous races.

From fun speed challenges to engaging betting games, these minigames have contributed to the enduring popularity of Super Mario RPG. As we anticipate the release of the modern remake, we can only hope that these games will make a return, possibly with new twists and mechanics to keep the gaming experience fresh and exciting.