Mario’s RPG Universe: Exploring the Richness Beyond Platforming

In Mario’s traditional platforming adventures, the story often takes a backseat, with minimal setup before diving into the jumping and exploring. However, there’s a whole world of untapped potential that Mario’s RPG spinoffs delve into. These games, starting with Super Mario RPG on the SNES, not only expand the storytelling and character development in the Mario universe but also bring a unique and eccentric twist to the already quirky mainline games.

An Accessible Entry Point: Paper Mario on the Nintendo Switch

With the recent remaster of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Nintendo Switch, the console, along with its subscription service, has become an excellent gateway into the Mario RPG universe. The Thousand-Year Door offers players a delightful experience with its blend of humor, epic quest, and Mario references in a papercraft aesthetic.

Super Mario RPG: A Classic Reimagined

The iconic Super Mario RPG, developed in collaboration with Final Fantasy maker Square Enix, received a full remake on the Switch, bringing updated 3D graphics and quality-of-life improvements. The game remains a beloved classic for its traditional RPG elements, whimsical storytelling, and surreal take on the Mushroom Kingdom.

Diverging Paths of Mario’s RPGs

Mario’s RPG ventures took two distinct directions, with one leading to the quirky Superstar Saga on the Game Boy Advance, available on the Switch Online service. The game’s playful combat and storytelling set it apart, offering a unique experience for players.

The Unique Charm of Paper Mario Series

The Paper Mario series introduces a papercraft aesthetic and playful gameplay mechanics, with the standout entry being The Thousand-Year Door on the GameCube, known for its deep story and lovable characters. While subsequent releases veered away from traditional RPG elements, The Origami King on the Switch still delivers a hilarious and memorable experience.

Remember to always address the audience directly and explore the diverse and colorful world of Mario’s RPG universe, where storytelling and gameplay merge in surprising and delightful ways.