Super Mario Run icon
Super Mario Run iOS App Review: One-Handed Mario Gaming

by Nintendo Co., Ltd.

3.7
IOSAction Games
Nintendo's mobile adaptation of its iconic platformer franchise offers simplified one-handed gameplay. The free-to-try model provides access to four distinct modes before requiring a single $10 purchase for full content.

Detailed Review

Super Mario Run represents Nintendo's strategic entry into the mobile gaming market, translating the classic platforming experience into a one-handed, auto-running format. The game maintains the core Mario identity while adapting mechanics for touchscreen devices, with characters moving automatically while players control jumps through timed taps. This design creates an accessible yet challenging experience that preserves the precision jumping mechanics the franchise is known for. The app features four distinct gameplay modes: World Tour offers traditional level-based progression through six worlds; Toad Rally provides competitive asynchronous racing against other players' ghosts; Remix 10 delivers bite-sized challenge stages; and Kingdom Builder allows for custom castle customization using collected coins and items. The business model employs a free-to-try approach where all modes are accessible initially, with a single $10 purchase required to unlock the full game after the initial trial, eliminating ongoing microtransactions. User interface design follows Nintendo's polished aesthetic standards with responsive touch controls and clear visual feedback. The one-handed operation makes it suitable for quick play sessions during commutes or brief breaks. Performance remains consistent across supported iOS devices, though the always-online requirement presents limitations for offline play. The game successfully translates Mario's movement physics to mobile while maintaining the precise timing requirements that define the series. User feedback indicates generally positive reception toward the core gameplay, though some confusion exists regarding purchase mechanics. User vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvip (August 23, 2025) described the experience as 'soooooooooooooooo fun,' while QuestEditzzYT (July 19, 2025) expressed frustration with world access after purchase, stating 'I payed the 10$ I played through world one but I can't play world2.' Multiple users including Merandamakes#1 (July 20, 2025) praised the one-tap control scheme as 'so cool' and 'simple.' The game excels at delivering authentic Mario gameplay in a mobile-optimized format with no recurring monetization, though the always-online requirement and somewhat limited content compared to console titles represent notable constraints. The ideal use case involves casual players seeking quick gaming sessions and Mario fans interested in a streamlined version of the franchise. The single purchase model provides good value for dedicated players while the free trial allows thorough evaluation before commitment.

Key Features

  • One-handed tap controls enable precise jumping mechanics while maintaining accessibility for mobile play scenarios
  • World Tour mode offers six traditional Mario worlds with progressively challenging platforming levels and boss battles
  • Toad Rally mode provides asynchronous competition against other players' performances to earn coins and Toad followers
  • Remix 10 delivers quick-play stages with consecutive challenge rooms perfect for short gaming sessions
  • Kingdom Builder allows customization of personal castles using collected coins and unlocked decorative items
  • Single purchase model eliminates microtransactions after initial $10 unlock, providing complete access to all content

Why Users Love It

Polished Nintendo gameplay adaptation
No recurring microtransactions

Perfect for: Casual mobile gamers and Mario franchise enthusiasts seeking accessible platforming

Screenshots

Super Mario Run screenshot 1Super Mario Run screenshot 2Super Mario Run screenshot 3Super Mario Run screenshot 4Super Mario Run screenshot 5

User Reviews

vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvip
Aug 23, 2025

So I got my first iPad so I downloaded some game apps so MARIO run was the first one cause my sister was playing it so I also wanted to play so I downloaded it it was soooooooooooooooo fun! So you better play it Better play it! So I got my first iPad so I downloaded some game apps so MARIO run was the first one cause my sister was playing it so I also wanted to play so I downloaded it it was soooooooooooooooo fun! So you better play it

Merandamakes#1
Jul 20, 2025

You can play with just a tap it is so cool You’re going to love it so fun,Simple and The next is for you’re fav thing about it! I LOVE IT You can play with just a tap it is so coolYou’re going to love it so fun,Simple and The next is for you’re fav thing about it!

QuestEditzzYT
Jul 20, 2025

Why is it I purchased the worlds but I can’t play them I payed the 10$ I played through world one but I can’t play world2 P.S U need to help me I can’t figure it out!!! Why Why is it I purchased the worlds but I can’t play them I payed the 10$ I played through world one but I can’t play world2 P.S U need to help me I can’t figure it out!!!

Zizihaha 158
Jul 14, 2025

When I go to rally in the game I can’t get a competition won’t let me I like it but When I go to rally in the game I can’t get a competition won’t let me

EpicSonicPlayer
Jul 14, 2025

As a kid, I always loved playing the Super Mario Games since I first got a Wii. I really liked Super Mario Run. It may not be one of my favorite Mario games, but I definitely enjoyed this game. Now I have all characters, fully leveled up my castle, completed every special event, and am now trying to get every decoration. I guess this kinda makes me the #1 Super Mario Fan. Hope to see the red plumber in more adventures. 🐢🐢🐢 A “Super” fun game 🍄 As a kid, I always loved playing the Super Mario Games since I first got a Wii. I really liked Super Mario Run. It may not be one of my favorite Mario games, but I definitely enjoyed this game. Now I have all characters, fully leveled up my castle, completed every special event, and am now trying to get every decoration. I guess this kinda makes me the #1 Super Mario Fan. Hope to see the red plumber in more adventures. 🐢🐢🐢

App Details

Developer

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

Platform

ios

Rating

3.7

Last Updated

9/7/2025