Mario's Next Adventure: Why Cozy Games Are the Ultimate Playground for the Mushroom Kingdom

The Mario franchise has conquered various genres in the gaming industry, including sports games and RPGs. However, cozy games seem to be one of the last frontiers for the series to explore. It would be a wise move for Mario to venture into this rising genre with a new spin-off. Surprisingly, cozy games may be the perfect genre for Mario spin-offs to tackle. Although it's uncharted territory for the franchise, it could be the best next step for its ever-growing expansion.

As one of the most popular franchises in the gaming industry, Super Mario has been closely associated with Nintendo since the days of Donkey Kong. Almost every Nintendo console features a Mario game among its release titles, with several successful spin-offs such as Mario Kart and Mario Party. With the franchise continuously expanding, it's only a matter of time before a new Mario IP emerges.

Cozy Gaming Could be a Perfect Fit for the Mushroom Kingdom

The gaming industry has witnessed a significant shift in recent years with the increasing popularity of cozy games, such as the critically acclaimed farming simulator Stardew Valley. Surprisingly, games with little or no action have been attracting significant fan bases, with players investing countless hours in games that focus on farming, management, and other unexpected topics. Even action games like Like a Dragon: Ishin!'s Another Life mode have embraced this trend. It's only a matter of time before the AAA market follows suit.

While Nintendo introduced one of the first major comfy games with Animal Crossing on the Gamecube, it's intriguing that the Super Mario universe has yet to tap into this genre. The Mushroom Kingdom and its inhabitants possess a design and art style that make them inherently likable, with even enemies like Goombas and Koopa Troopas being adorable in their own right. With decades of games already dedicated to crafting the world of the Mushroom Kingdom, players have explored it through both adventures and side games. However, it may be time for players to have the chance to unwind and relax in the Mushroom Kingdom.

The beloved characters and memorable world of the Super Mario franchise make it a prime candidate for a cozy gaming genre. With many spin-offs already in existence, there is undoubtedly room for a game that allows players to simply relax and spend time in the Mushroom Kingdom. Rather than focusing on defeating enemies, a low-stakes adventure could offer a new perspective on the Super Mario world. The Mushroom Kingdom has the potential to appeal to a wide range of players, whether they prefer farming like in Stardew Valley or running a community like in Animal Crossing. As cozy games continue to gain popularity, a Super Mario spin-off in this genre would be a perfect fit.