Nintendo, one of the biggest competitors in the gaming industry and owner of Super Mario Bros, has recently given a huge Nintendo Direct to show many games coming out with the soon-to-be release of the Nintendo Switch 2. Throughout the many years of Super Mario Bros, the main red plumber himself has stomped, burned, and even spun his way through countless of Bowser’s minions, but some of them have left a bigger mark than others. These underlings may not be the biggest of bosses or even have that much spotlight, but they’re the ones that truly define the Mario experience.

1. Goomba – Ultimate Sacrificial Minion

Everyone saw this coming, how could it not be a Goomba? There is simply no Mario enemy more iconic. They’re the very first enemy you spot in Super Mario Bros, and their job is to teach you how to jump. They’re the true mascots of the minions, the lowest on the totem pole, and yet we all respect them. No power-ups or unique attacks, just a little mushroom walking straight at you, doing its very best. Goombas may be the weakest enemy, but they are THE enemy.

2. Koopa Troopa – The OG Fodder

Koopas are the Stormtroopers of the Mario universe—everywhere, disposable, and always getting stomped. But give them credit: they’ve evolved. From their classic Super Mario Bros. appearance to their high-speed shell-riding antics in Mario 64, Koopas have always been a staple of the series. Plus, let’s not forget the satisfaction of kicking a shell and watching it take out an entire row of enemies like bowling pins.

3. Boo – The Bashful Ghost

Boo is the perfect combination of creepy and adorable. They’re a ghost that only creeps up on you when you’re not looking, which tends to be both hilarious and maybe a little spooky. Their cartoonish tongue-out sinister smile and laugh are iconic, and they’ve even got their very own king (fans of Luigi’s Mansion know the struggle). Whether they’re creeping up on you in Mario 64 or laughing as they steal your coins in Mario Party, Boo is an unforgettable minion.

4. Shy Guy – Mysterious Timid Weirdos

Shy Guys have always been a bit of an oddity. Originally from Super Mario Bros. 2, they stuck around because of their weird charm. They come in many different colors, sometimes carry spears, and occasionally drive go-karts. But what lies under the mask? Nobody knows, and to be honest, maybe it’s better that way. Their mysterious nature is what makes them so intriguing to many fans.

5. Bullet Bill – Relentless Silent Menace

Bullet Bills don’t have time for any nonsense. No goofy animations, no sound effects—just a straight-up missile with eyes and arms that exists purely to ruin Mario’s day. These missiles are fast and relentless, and when you hear that boom sound of one getting shot out, you know it’s time to move. Plus, in Mario Kart, getting a Bullet Bill power-up is an “I’m tired of last place” button.

6. Bob-omb – Living Time Bomb

Bob-ombs live fast and die… well, explosively. These little guys don’t mess around—once they spot you, it’s only a matter of time before they start flashing and chasing you down with the sole intent of taking you down with them. But they’re also one of the few minions you can use against other enemies, which is always satisfying to land. Whether they’re enemies, power-ups, or even kart racers, Bob-ombs are essential to the Super Mario Bros universe and Bowser’s plans.

7. Lakitu – The Floating Annoyance

Lakitu is one of the most annoying enemies in Super Mario Bros history, and that’s exactly why he deserves a spot here. He floats just out of reach, dropping those relentless Spiny eggs, and ensures you’ll never have a chance to rest. But weirdly enough, he also helps out as the cameraman in Mario 64 and rescues you in Mario Kart when you turn the wrong way or fall off the map. Is he an enemy? A friend? A chaotic neutral? Whatever he is, he’s unforgettably infamous.

While most enemies are unforgettable in the Super Mario franchise, there always has to be a top selection. These are the seven most legendary and iconic minions ranked. Did your favorite make the list? Or should they get more spotlight in future games?