Mario embarks on yet another adventure in his unique, flat form. This time around, the adventure is a bit different. Instead of being an RPG, it's more of a platformer with some ever so slight RPG elements. An innovative part of this game is Mario's new ability to flip from 2D to 3D within the universe he is visiting. The story? A new villain named Count Bleck tries to destroy the universe by engulfing it in a massive void. That's the basic plot, but play the game and there is much more to it.
Gameplay: 9/10
Absolutely innovative.
Although some Paper Mario fans may be disappointed that this game is not
a pure RPG (in fact far from it), many may enjoy the fresh elements. Being
able to switch from 2D to 3D with a click of a button to discover and crack
puzzles is entertaining (although one must be careful, as it drains HP
if the 3D form is taken too long). Also, the HP element actually makes
the game less difficult. That's good if you want to finish and enjoy a
good story, but bad for those looking for a challenge. I think it's spectacular.
Moving on, inventory items are used efficiently. If you start running out
of health, you can use items just as you would in an RPG.
Also, there are many unique boss battles. I don't want to spoil too much, but you just may get to do things such as partaking in a dating sim and trying to figure out an impostor by asking several questions. For those looking for a more traditional boss battle, that is most certainly included as well. Although the boss battles may not be as difficult as some of the previous Mario games, they are still solid and require strategy.
Another of my personal favorite elements is solving puzzles by switching characters and Pixls (little buddies) to solve several puzzles. You can't keep with the same characters. Only Mario can flip to 3D. Only Peach can use her umbrella to glide across large gaps. Also, the Pixls have unique functions. For example, one is used to pick up enemies while another of the several Pixls can explode things such as bricks and even baddies. It may sound gimmicky but surprisingly, it isn't. Overall, the gameplay doesn't stray too far from the Mario universe, but is fresh enough to offer something new (without being gimmicky).
Graphics/Art Concept:
10/10
Although not
breathtaking in the world of technology (wouldn't impress one of those
snooty graphics buffs), it certainly fits my style. Like the other Paper
Marios, it offers a more cartoony form. Personally, I enjoy the bright
colors and vibrant concept. In its own sense, it's stunning. The characters
are absolutely- do I dare say this- cute...and it only adds to the innocent
humor of the game. Without a doubt, it's very different, but certainly
enjoyable.
Story: 10/10
Wow. I'm keeping
my promise not to spoil anything, but this is just... emotional for a platformer.
The pages fit together just like a book, and everything works. There may
be a lot of unanswered questions by the end of the game, but that just
might be a positive thing. It's an interesting story that motivates you
to keep playing the game. And by far, this is the only videogame that's
ever made me... um... cry. It's strange, but heartwarming. You will be
impressed by the time this game is done, and that is my guarantee. Romantic
and remarkable, the plot is perfection.
Characters: 10/10
Another perfect
facet of the game. I don't believe there is a single tasteless, plain character
in the game. Every single character has a unique personality (kind of like
in The Simpsons). From Bowser's tough but comedic attitude to Bleck assistant
Nastasia's neat freak style, you'll find a lot of characters that may even
remind of you of familiar cartoon characters and even people that you know
personally. One of my personal favorite characters is the diabolical Francis,
a nerdy chameleon who loves videogames, sci-fi, anime, season box sets,
comics, and "totally hot babes". Looks like the creators of this game are
attacking the main audience themselves. Hilarious!
Difficulty: 9/10
A little of this
was explained in gameplay. Again, it’s easy enough to enjoy the story like
a good film. It's relaxing, and the kind of game that diverts you from
harder games like Twilight Princess. To me, there's nothing wrong with
that. It might upset those looking for a challenge, but this game is probably
made for the purpose of having fun and sitting back. Not bad, not bad at
all.
Final Opinion:
10/10
"WHAT?!" you
say. "How can you give a perfect score to a game that didn't even receive
a 10 in every single area?" Well you know, it was pretty close to that.
No section scored lower than a 9. I had to give this some serious thought.
A ten can be only given to games deserving of near-worship. It's RARE.
A game like that doesn't come across often, not even every year. But in
the mind of Ryou, a guy who strives for cute, colorful, compelling games
like this, it's a ten. And the story just blew me away. I sat in my bed
in shock... it sounds crazy, but that's just the way I am when I get more
than what I expected. It may not be a memorable classic in the hearts of
all gamers, but it certainly is in mine. To me, it's perfection. To me,
it's unforgettable. And that's all I need to give this game a ten. I have
a right to an opinion, don't I? Rent this game and if you like it, BUY
BUY BUY! You may be in for a pleasant surprise.
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