8 Super Mario Run Alternatives for iOS and Android
By Jasmine Henry 12 December 2016
As Nintendo’s new mobile game costs $10 to unlock completely and won’t launch on Android until 2017, Game Rant has put together a list of Super Mario Run alternatives.
Nintendo’s mobile platformer Super Mario Run releases on iOS this week. The game stars iconic video game character Mario has he runs and jumps his way through the Mushroom Kingdom, trying to collect as many coins as possible.
Although many are excited to play the game, there are a couple of caveats. Not only does it cost $10 to unlock the full game, it Super Mario Run won’t be released on Android until 2017. Mobile gamers on Android or those who can’t spend an entire $10 needn’t fret, though, as Game Rant has put together a list of eight Super Mario Run alternatives.
Temple Run 2 (Free to Play)
An endless runner game about collecting coins, Temple Run 2 shares the same core gameplay goal as Super Mario Run. Featuring an explorer trying to escape some otherworldy baddies after stealing an ancient artifact, players must avoid tree roots, ledges, gaps in the floor and more as they aim to get as far as possible and collect coins.
As players collect coins, new power-ups (such as invincibility and a magnet to collect even more coins) can be upgraded and new explorers can be unlocked.
Jetpack Joyride (Free to Play)
Starring Barry Steakfries, Jetpack Joyride is an endless runner from (Fruit Ninja developer) Halfbrick Studios. With lasers and missiles to dodge (while also boasting the inclusion of dragons, mechs, and science labs), this one is far less family-friendly and far more off-the-wall in comparison to the Mario game.
That said, the two titles do share a few similarities as both allow players to compete against their friends and collect coins. Moreover, Jetpack Joyride can be played with one hand, just like the new Nintendo title (as shown off in the new Super Mario Run live-action trailer).
PewDiePie: Legend of the Brofist ($4.99)
When PewDiePie isn’t trolling his fans by saying he’s going to delete his channel, YouTube’s biggest star also attaches his name to video games. PewDiePie: Legend of the Brofist is a 2D platformer in which players collect ‘Brocoins’ which they can spend on attacks, defenses and new characters.
Some of these unlockable characters include Markiplier, JackSepticEye, and CinnamonToastKen. No, it’s not the same as getting to play as Mario himself, but those who are fans of the YouTubers have something to smile about here.
Sonic Dash (Free to Play)
Starring Mario’s sometime-colleague Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic Dash sees the famous blue blur dash, jump, and spin his way to victory. An endless runner and a 2D platformer, players can make use of Sonic’s suite of abilities as he battles to take down Dr. Eggman and Zazz. Tails and Knuckles are also playable.
While it may not be what fans should expect from the blue blur, Sonic Dash could just tide fans over until those two new Sonic video games are released in 2017.
