Three Mario Classics Drop for Free on Mario Day
Mario Day, the worldwide celebration honoring the legendary plumber, is back and Nintendo is marking the occasion with a trio of free games for Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers. Starting March 10, players can instantly download and experience three unique Mario titles that dig deep into Nintendo’s gaming archives.
What’s Included: Puzzle, Tennis, and a Virtual Throwback
The headliner here is arguably Mario vs. Donkey Kong, a puzzle-platformer originally released for Game Boy Advance. It blends side-scrolling action with clever puzzles, demanding both quick reflexes and strategic planning as Mario chases Donkey Kong through intricate, toy-filled levels. For players who appreciate a smart twist on Mario’s classic formula, this is a must-play—especially as the franchise recently received a new spotlight thanks to a modern reimagining.
The other two games land straight from the Virtual Boy era, a system fondly remembered for its ambition (if not always for its comfort or visuals). Here comes Mario’s Tennis, an early endeavor in 3D sports gaming. Its simple mechanics hide a surprising amount of depth and it’s one of the best ways to experience Virtual Boy titles without tracking down vintage hardware. Rounding out the trio is Mario Clash, a unique 3D reimagining of the original Mario Bros. formula. Instead of side-by-side pipes, action unfolds across multiple planes, requiring spatial awareness rarely seen in Nintendo’s platformers of the ’90s.
The Switch Online + Expansion Pack Advantage
To claim these games, you’ll need a Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, Nintendo’s premium subscription tier. Priced around $50 per year, this service unlocks not only these Mario Day releases but an ever-expanding library of classics from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, SEGA Genesis, and the newly-launched Virtual Boy App. In recent months, this Virtual Boy collection gave retro fans modern access to cult hits like 3-D Tetris and Galactic Pinball. Now, Mario’s legacy grows even further, letting veterans revisit oddities—and giving newcomers a taste of the series’ experimental side.
If you haven’t updated your Switch or installed the latest apps, just head to the official Nintendo site or your console’s eShop to upgrade and explore these gems directly.
Nostalgia Meets Novelty: Why Try These Specific Mario Games?
Dedicated Mario followers will recognize that none of these giveaways are blockbusters like Super Mario Odyssey or Mario Kart. Instead, Nintendo is spotlighting the lesser-known corners of its catalog—a move that deepens appreciation for the franchise’s history.
- Mario vs. Donkey Kong delivers clever puzzles and classic humor, embodying the playful rivalry that’s tugged at Nintendo fans for decades.
- Mario’s Tennis offers a pure, pick-up-and-play tennis experience with seven recognizable characters, contrasting today’s more complex sports games.
- Mario Clash stands as a true collector’s curiosity—an experiment in 3D platforming, challenging players to master depth and motion in new ways.
How to Access and Enjoy
All three games are available through the Game Boy Advance and Virtual Boy apps on Switch. Install the latest versions, make sure your Expansion Pack subscription is active, and you’ll find these titles ready to download starting Mario Day. If you love exploring gaming’s past or just want to surprise friends with multiplayer blasts from Mario’s lesser-known adventures, these are your ticket.
Mario Day 2026 isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a reminder that exploration and joy are built into the DNA of Nintendo’s greatest creation.
