I love MOTHER and I recommend everyone plays atleast 1 of the games. The trilogy's theme of "everything will be okay despite all that has happened" is something that I've kept near and dear to me.
MOTHER is the 1st entry of the series, released in 1989 for the NES. For the longest time this game wasn't available outside Japan, though an official translation was made. In 2015 it received a worldwide release on the VC.
Most people think MOTHER is the weakest in the series but I adore this game. Out of the 3, this one has my favourite OST and look. This game's atmosphere feels melancholic yet optimistic; like it's telling you that even in the darkest moments there's bits of joy hiding in plain sight.
MOTHER 2 is the 2nd and most famous entry, released in 1994 for the SNES. This gamed bombed when released in the West but gained a huge cult following. You see this game's influence everywhere, especially with indie RPGs.
I don't know what to say about MOTHER 2 that hasn't been said already. A wonderful game about growing up, featuring little jokes and some bizarre moments. Despite its difficulty I was immersed in its world.
MOTHER 3 is the 3rd and final entry of the series. The game was released in 2006 for the GBA after years of development hell, it's the only MOTHER game to not be localized. The game centers on Tazmily village, the tragedy that befalls it, and the effects of said tragedy.
MOTHER 3 is a masterpiece. I've cried thinking about this game, the themes and events were so personal to me. I first experienced this game via Vinesauce and it's stuck with me ever since. This is my favourite game from the trilogy, please play it.