Mario Golf: Super Rush puts speed back in the name of the sport. Nintendo’s latest golf game trades the slow, careful pace of past entries for a fast, arcade-style loop that rewards quick decisions over perfect ones. The result is a game that feels fresh to longtime fans of the series and accessible enough for newcomers.
Trailer, via Nintendo of America.
The Core Loop
The core of Mario Golf: Super Rush is a simple formula: hit the ball, move to the next shot, repeat. But the game adds a twist: each player has a meter that fills with speed as they play. Use it at the right moment and the ball flies farther, faster. Miss the timing and the meter drains away. This system gives every shot a sense of urgency that older Mario Golf games lacked.
Characters and Clubs
Players choose from a cast of familiar faces, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some characters hit harder but move slower. Others move faster but hit weaker. The choice of who you play as changes how you approach each hole.
There are also a wide variety of clubs to collect and upgrade. Each club changes how far the ball travels and how it curves. Players spend time switching between clubs to find the best fit for each situation.
Courses and Modes
The courses in Mario Golf: Super Rush are bright and varied. Some are tight and demanding. Others are wide and forgiving. The game mixes these courses across its different modes, keeping the game from feeling repetitive.
The main mode sends players through a series of matches against rivals. Other modes let players race to finish holes as quickly as possible, adding a layer of competition that feels distinct from the main game.
Presentation
Mario Golf: Super Rush looks and sounds cheerful. Character animations are expressive, and the sound design keeps the action lively. It’s a game that feels light and playful, even when the difficulty rises.
How It Compares
| Feature | Mario Golf: Super Rush | Previous Mario Golf Titles |
|---|---|---|
| Speed System | Central mechanic | Not present |
| Course Variety | Wide range | More limited |
| Difficulty Curve | Steep in some modes | Smoother |
| Presentation | Bright, cheerful | Softer, calmer |
What Works Best
- The speed meter system gives shots a sense of urgency.
- The cast of characters offers distinct play styles.
- The racing modes add a layer of competition beyond the main game.
- The presentation is bright and appealing.
Where It Falls Short
The steep difficulty curve in some modes can frustrate players who aren’t used to the new systems. The game also relies heavily on collecting and upgrading clubs, which can feel like busywork for some players.
Mario Golf: Super Rush isn’t a revolution for the genre, but it is a solid addition to the series. Its speed-focused systems and cheerful presentation make it a standout entry for the Switch. It doesn’t break new ground, but it executes its vision well.
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