Quality alternatives to Super Mario for mobile devices

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If you're still craving more after playing Super Mario Run, or if you're itching for Super Mario Bros. Wonder but only have your phone handy, you've come to the right place. The current iOS and Android catalogs are brimming with games that blend 2D platforming, side-scrolling, and auto-runner elements, perfectly matching what you're looking for.

Today we're going to review, calmly and without leaving anything out, the best quality alternatives to Super Mario that you can enjoy on your smartphoneFrom blatant homages to the mustachioed plumber to games that are inspired by his essence but contribute their own ideas, passing through mythical sagas like Sonic or Rayman that have been rivaling Nintendo in the platforming genre for years.

Super Mario Run-like alternatives on Android

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Super Mario Run landed on iOS amid controversy and high expectations, while its arrival on Android was somewhat calmer.Even so, Google Play already boasted a whole ecosystem of 2D platformers and auto-runners that, according to many players, even surpass Nintendo's offering in various aspects. Let's take a look at the most notable ones.

Super Cat Bros: cat tribute to Nintendo
Super Cat Bros (also known as Super Cat Bross in some places) is perhaps the most blatant tribute to Mario you'll find. Its creator draws directly from Nintendo classics to bring to life a beautiful and very responsive platformer.We control several kittens, each with different abilities, in levels full of secrets, alternate routes and hidden areas that are very reminiscent of the worlds of the Mushroom Kingdom.

The touch controls are simple yet precise, the pixel art is visually appealing, and the soundtrack has that nostalgic feel that fits the retro aesthetic. Although it's not a pure automatic runner, it shares with Super Mario Run that feeling of fluid movement while jumping on enemies and searching for collectibles..

Rayman Adventures: the great rival on mobile
Among all the alternatives, Rayman Adventures has rightfully earned the title of "great competitor" to Super Mario Run. Ubisoft has successfully adapted the Rayman formula to the mobile format with spectacular graphics, silky-smooth animations, and varied level design.Here we also have a runner with platforming elements, where we advance automatically and chain together jumps, hits and special moves.

Perhaps its levels aren't as precise as Nintendo's, but it makes up for it with a colorful and detailed aesthetic, charismatic characters, and a collectible system that encourages replayability. However, the game includes microtransactions and a free-to-play structure that may not appeal to everyone, although it can be enjoyed without paying if you are patient..

Paralyzed: Two Sisters, Two Dimensions
Paralyzed deviates a bit from the typical Mario pattern, but it's still a great alternative if you're looking for something more experimental. It's a platform runner where you control two twin sisters at the same time, each in a parallel dimension with their own color palette and obstacles.The key is to exchange positions at the right moment to overcome traps and advance.

The game stands out for its dreamlike and somewhat unsettling atmosphere, with a very marked psychological touch. Visually, it adopts a minimalist but very effective style, and in terms of gameplay it demands reflexes and coordination to avoid getting confused managing the two protagonists..

Wind Runner Adventurer: manga-style platformers
Wind Runner Adventurer opts for a combination of platforming and automatic runner, seasoned with an aesthetic close to manga and anime. We control a character who runs non-stop, collects coins, uses special powers, and exploits different mechanics to overcome very colorful scenarios..

The graphics are one of its strong points: detailed backgrounds, striking visual effects, and a very attractive character design. If you're into colorful and slightly "shōnen" games, this title easily ranks among the most visually stunning on Android within the genre..

Leo's Fortune: a visual spectacle in your pocket
Leo's Fortune is already a classic in the mobile phone world. We embody a small, furry, mustachioed creature that chases its gold coins through levels with a visual style worthy of consoles.Smooth animations, environments with depth, and a unique art style make each stage feel like an interactive illustration.

In exchange for so much spectacle, some players miss having more substance in the level design, which focuses on light puzzles and moderate platforming. Even so, it's an essential experience if you want to see how far graphical quality can go in a mobile platformer..

Dokuro: a dark tale in the style of Tim Burton
Dokuro opts for a very particular aesthetic, reminiscent of chalk drawing and the gloomy universe of films like "The Nightmare Before Christmas". You control a humble skeleton who must escort and save a princess, solving puzzles and avoiding traps while trying not to end up in pieces..

The beauty of the game is that you can alternate between your skeleton form and a heroic version to take advantage of different abilities, which adds layers of depth to the mechanics. Its character and enemy design is one of its biggest draws, making it a different alternative for those who want something with more personality..

Badland: Unique atmosphere and addictive gameplay
Badland and its sequel are two of the most respected names in the field of mobile platformers. Although they depart from Mario's cheerful tone, they offer a highly polished experience that blends physics, obstacles, and side-scrolling exploration in dark and hypnotic environments..

In the first installment, the business model was more content-driven, while Badland 2 introduced a heavier advertising load that didn't convince everyone. Despite this, the game remains a benchmark thanks to its unmistakable visual style and gameplay that is easy to understand but difficult to master..

Sonic The Hedgehog (classic): the eternal rival
Talking about alternatives to Super Mario without mentioning Sonic The Hedgehog It would be a cardinal sin. The classic mobile version of Sonic The Hedgehog takes us back to the Mega Drive era, with super-fast levels, impossible loops, and dozens of rings to collect..

The touch adaptation is very well done, and if you connect a controller, the experience is virtually the same as on the 16-bit console. It's a lesson in level design, pacing, and soundtrack that every platforming fan should try at least once..

Super Phantom Cat: platformers with a retro soul
Super Phantom Cat is another game that unabashedly pays homage to Mario's adventures. It opts for a slightly slower pace than Nintendo's, so you have time to explore every corner and discover the secrets hidden in its levels..

Its colorful pixel art aesthetic, special powers, and enemy and stage design exude charisma. It's one of those titles that, despite clearly being a "child" of Mario, has enough of its own personality to stand out on Android..

Goo Saga: Elasticity and Exploration
Goo Saga is a premium (paid) platformer that has been gradually gaining fame. Its protagonist is an elastic, gelatinous creature that can deform to slip through passageways, dodge traps, or reach new areas.

The adventure takes place in underground settings and strange laboratories, with an atmosphere that at times is reminiscent of what was seen in Badland. Its combination of physics, exploration, and puzzles makes it an ideal alternative for those looking for something more leisurely but very well-crafted..

Vector 2: Futuristic Parkour at Full Speed
Vector 2 moves away from the cute appearance of Mario-type characters to opt for a futuristic, almost dystopian laboratory aesthetic. We control a runner who practices parkour, running at full speed while dodging traps, laser beams and all kinds of obstacles through acrobatics..

The protagonist and the settings are presented with silhouettes and a minimalist design, but the movement is very fluid. The result is an intense, demanding, and very satisfying runner when you link the maneuvers together well..

Chameleon Run: 3D precision and frantic pace
Chameleon Run is more runner than classic platformer and, in addition, makes the leap to a stylized three-dimensional environment. The basic mechanics involve jumping from platform to platform while changing the character's color to match the color of the ground you're about to land on..

This turns each phase into a test of reflexes and precise timing, with huge jumps that require decisions in a fraction of a second. Noodlecake Studios has created one of the most polished mobile games of recent years, both technically and in terms of gameplay..

Cordy 2: a meticulously crafted robotic adventure
Cordy 2 follows in the footsteps of the first Cordy, which already surprised many Android users. It puts us in control of a charming robot in a side-scrolling platform adventure with detailed graphics and endearing characters..

The title is reminiscent at times of Rayman and Wind Runner Adventurer in its combination of good graphics, smooth physics, and varied levels. It's a great option if you're looking for a complete platformer, with a big-budget feel, designed specifically for mobile devices..

Meganoid 2: Indiana Jones flavor and pixel art
Meganoid 2, created by Orange Pixel, offers an adventure clearly inspired by the Indiana Jones movies. We explored temples, caves, and ruins filled with traps, with a protagonist who could pass for an adventurous Hollywood archaeologist..

Its distinguishing feature is the house's highly recognizable pixel art, along with a demanding level design, with dangers everywhere. Ideal for those who enjoy platformers with an extra level of difficulty and a well-crafted retro aesthetic..

CATTCH: color, animations and hand-drawn levels
CATTCH closes this round of Android alternatives with a more classic platform proposal, without an automatic runner component. What stands out most is its vibrant colors, fluid animations, and the well-constructed, hand-designed levels..

Each phase introduces new ideas and small twists, always maintaining precise control. It's one of those games that doesn't have a big name behind it, but leaves a very good impression on those who give it a chance..

Mobile games similar to Super Mario Run on iOS and Android

Beyond the Android ecosystem, in recent years a good number of games reminiscent of both Super Mario Run and Super Mario Bros. Wonder have arrived on iOS and Google Play. The power of today's mobile phones allows for experiences very close to what consoles offer in terms of visual quality and control, especially if you play with a controller; if you want to improve responsiveness, see how reduce latency in mobile games.

Mr Jump: the jump as the absolute protagonist
Mr Jump is a minimalist platformer that focuses on a single movement: jumping. Each mistake means repeating from the beginning of the phase, so it requires surgical precision to accurately calculate each tap on the screen..

Although it can be frustrating, its design is intended precisely for that: to hook you by repeating until you nail the perfect level. It's an ideal companion for short but intense games while you wait for Mario to arrive on your device or want a quick challenge..

Run Sackboy! Run!: LittleBigPlanet in runner format
Sackboy, the mascot of the PlayStation's LittleBigPlanet saga, has also made the jump to mobile with Run Sackboy! Run!. It's a side-scrolling endless runner where we run, jump, and slide through stages made of cardboard, fabric, and "handmade" materials, so characteristic of the franchise..

The gameplay is agile and precise, with tons of coins, power-ups, and hazards to dodge. While not the most in-depth platformer on the list, it more than fulfills its purpose as a charming and technically polished alternative..

Hop Swap: Two parallel worlds, one path
Hop Swap, by Nitrome, presents a very curious idea: to advance by switching between two overlapping parallel worlds. The character moves semi-automatically, and we alternate between the world above and below to avoid obstacles, collect diamonds, and find alternative routes..

The sense of exploration and the "collector's instinct" are very much present, just like in the classic Mario games. Its level design is full of little tricks and secrets that reward those who take the time to master its mechanics..

Sonic Dash 2: Sonic Boom: Infinite Speed
Sega has been exploiting the Sonic character on mobile for years, and Sonic Dash 2: Sonic Boom is one of its most polished offerings. It's a vertical-view endless runner where you run at full speed, changing lanes, jumping, sliding, and using special abilities to get as far as possible..

It takes advantage of the redesigned characters from the Sonic Boom series, introduces boss fights, and adds missions and objectives that bring variety to the games. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel in the runner genre, it works like a charm and is an ideal alternative if what you like about Mario is the feeling of speed and reflexes..

Adventure Beaks: a very Mario-style penguin
Adventure Beaks could be summarized as "Super Mario Run starring a penguin." We have over 50 main levels, 16 challenge stages and around 150 side missions, all based on running, jumping and sliding while collecting coins and artifacts..

The controls are very precise and the level design is surprisingly well done, introducing new ideas every so often. Added to that is the possibility of customizing the protagonist with different outfits, which adds a touch of humor and collectability that is very engaging..

Super Mario Bros. Wonder-style games on mobile devices

Super Mario Bros. Wonder has become one of the most anticipated titles for Nintendo Switch, especially during the Christmas season. If you don't have the console but want something similar in spirit —2D platforming, color, charisma and good design— there are real gems on your mobile phone..

Dadish (trilogy): the most stubborn radish
The Dadish saga, consisting of three games, is one of the great hidden gems of the genre. We play as a radish father who has to rescue his children through dozens of levels full of humor, absurd dialogues and very funny situations..

The level design is simple but very effective, with a perfect balance between precise jumps, small puzzles, and collectibles. Furthermore, the entire trilogy is available for free download on Android and iOS, making it an easy recommendation if you're looking for something close to the essence of Mario but with its own unique style..

Rayman Mini: Console quality on your iPhone or iPad
Rayman Mini is a small gem exclusive to Apple Arcade. It offers a completely new adventure for the limbless hero, with top-notch graphics, incredibly smooth animations, and very precise controls..

The production values ​​are closer to a tabletop game than a traditional mobile game, with scenarios full of detail, varied enemies and hidden secrets. The gameplay blends elements of runner and traditional platforming, resulting in a well-rounded experience from beginning to end..

Super Cat Bros / Super Cat Tales: Mario-style kittens
We're going back to cats because they've earned it. Super Cat Bros (or Super Cat Tales, depending on the version) takes the formula of Nintendo's side-scrolling platformers and adapts it to meticulously designed touch controls..

Each cat has different abilities, there are short but intense levels, varied enemies, and plenty of comical situations. The cheerful tone, catchy music, and fast-paced gameplay make it incredibly easy to fall into the "trap" of playing level after level without realizing how much time has passed..

Jungle Adventures 3: Donkey Kong Country flavor
The third installment of Jungle Adventures is, by far, the best in the series. Although the first two games didn't quite stand out, this third installment takes a huge leap in variety and overall quality..

The stages combine pure platforming with aquatic sections, minecart stretches, and other moments that are very reminiscent of Donkey Kong Country. Graphically it's very impressive and, in terms of gameplay, it knows when to increase the challenge without becoming unfair..

Tetragon: 2D platformers and puzzles
Tetragon is an ideal choice for those who want something with the feel of a 2D platformer, but focused on puzzle solving. The key mechanic involves rotating and altering sections of the stage using a kind of magic lamp, changing the arrangement of blocks and paths..

Thus, progress is based not so much on jumping ability as on thinking about how to transform the environment. That extra layer of depth clearly sets it apart from other games on the list and can be a breath of fresh air if you're already tired of runners..

Oddmar: a very charming Viking
Oddmar is one of those titles that exudes care from every angle. Stepping into the shoes of a Viking who must prove his worth to be worthy of Valhalla is the perfect excuse for a journey full of color, endearing characters, and beautiful scenery..

The game combines jumping, small puzzles, some light combat, and many collectibles scattered throughout the levels. Its visual style easily ranks among the best in the genre on mobile, and the charm of its protagonist is reminiscent of Mario and company..

Lep's World: The most blatant Mario copy
If you want something "just like" Mario on mobile, Lep's World is the franchise for you. With several installments already under its belt and millions of downloads, this Irish saga unabashedly copies the approach, aesthetics, and level structure of classic Super Mario Bros..

We replaced the plumber with a goblin, the coins with clovers and mushrooms, and little else. It's not the most original idea in the world, but precisely for that reason it's perfect for anyone looking for an experience as close as possible to Nintendo's on a mobile device..

Lucky Luna: atmospheric platforms with a Japanese touch
Lucky Luna offers a 2D exploration and platforming adventure with a very special atmosphere. Inspired by Japanese folklore, it takes us through temples, dungeons, and mystical landscapes as we unravel a story full of symbolism..

The controls are very polished, with a focus on moving and sliding rather than jumping "crazy," giving it a different rhythm. Its artistic aspect is one of its biggest draws and makes it one of the most picturesque experiences in this selection..

Super Nob Run: Adventure: An Uncensored Tribute
Super Nob Run: Adventure doesn't hold back when it comes to drawing inspiration from Super Mario Wonder. From the level design to many visual elements, everything is very reminiscent of what Nintendo's latest major release has to offer..

It is a free-to-play title available on Google Play, which, while not a marvel of originality, performs well in terms of gameplay and content. If you're looking for "something like Wonder" on your Android, this is one of the most direct clones you'll find..

Dead Cells: top-tier action, roguelike, and platforming
Dead Cells isn't really a "Mario-type" game, but its quality makes it almost mandatory on any list of 2D mobile platformers. This is a very demanding action roguelike, with a deep combat system, tons of weapons, and excellent procedurally generated level design..

Each death means starting over, but with the possibility of unlocking permanent upgrades. The sense of progression, the fluidity of the controls, and the responsiveness of the hits and jumps are on par with the best productions of the genre on PC and consoles..

Super Mario Run: the starting point on mobile
And of course, we can't leave out Super Mario Run itself, which was Nintendo's official gateway into the mobile world. It's controlled with a single finger, focusing on auto-jumps, walls, special coins, and levels designed for replayability and perfecting times..

While it doesn't reach the level of variety in mechanics of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, it's still a great way to enjoy the plumber's universe on your smartphone, with all the characters and charm as always. Its free-to-start model allows you to try a good portion of the content before deciding whether to pay for the full game..

With this wide range of 2D platformers, auto-runners, and colorful, charismatic adventures, it's clear that even without a Nintendo console, your mobile phone offers plenty of alternatives to satisfy your desire to jump, collect coins, and explore worlds full of surprises..