Some of the most distinctive and endearing games in the Mario brand are Paper Mario titles. These games provide players of all ages with a fascinating and unique experience because of their distinctive art style and their entertaining and amusing text. Not to mention that Mario and his group of misfits are made of paper and more recently, origami! This series was gigantic when it originally came out, and will continue to be a franchise that Nintendo seeks to expand and recapture. Although their more recent experiences in the universe of paper have fallen flat, players eagerly await a new entry into the series that is so beloved. This begs to ask the question…what makes Paper Mario so unique in the first place?
Where the original all started, in all of its glory!
The art style of the Paper Mario series is one of the things that stands out the most right away. Characters and surroundings in the games are created to resemble folded and cut-out pieces of paper. The original game’s resolution even looks like Runescape, in which you can buy Old School Runescape gold in case you play that! The games take place in a 2D world composed completely of paper. Its aesthetic not only looks spectacular physically, but it also gives the gameplay a deeper level. The game's capacity to fold or transform into a paper airplane, for example, depends on certain talents and mechanics that happen. The Paper Mario series is renowned for its captivating and frequently funny text in addition to its distinctive graphic style. Puns, clever language, and amusing fourth-wall-breaking moments abound in the games. Characters are given unique personalities and eccentricities, and their interactions with one another frequently serve as the games' high points. Battles have more complexity and interest because even the adversaries in the game have unique personalities and backstories.
The way the Paper Mario games approach battle is another noteworthy aspect. RPG-style battles are used in the series in place of typical Mario platforming. Players take turns choosing Mario and his allies' moves in these confrontations, such as jumping on foes or employing special attacks. As players must identify enemy patterns and select the most efficient course of action to beat them, the fighting is frequently more strategic and needs more thought than in the classic Mario games. The battles are frequently visually gorgeous as well, with dazzling, vibrant attacks that make use of the paper-based universe.
Paper Mario continued to improve its games by updating color palettes and art styles.
The Paper Mario series' attention to detail is another feature that distinguishes it from other games in the Mario franchise. The games are rich in minute details, from the beautifully created locations to the innumerable Easter eggs and references to other games and popular culture, which add to their allure and charm. Even Mario's movements and interactions with the environment are created to emphasize that he is made of paper, with some actions, such slipping through gaps or folding up like an airplane, having a very gratifying and distinctive sense. The musical score of the Paper Mario series is equally noteworthy. The music in the games is recognizable and catchy, and it ranges from lively and upbeat themes to melancholy and moody compositions. The game's tone and location are frequently reflected in the soundtrack, which further immerses the player in the world of paper. There are also numerous treasures and side quests in the Paper Mario games. They can be anything from solving characters' problems to locating buried objects or badges that provide Mario and his allies new skills. The side quests provide players the chance to learn more about the game's setting and characters while frequently involving imaginative puzzles or mini-games.
The Paper Mario series' ability to sustain quality and popularity over time is one of its most outstanding features. Many sequels and spin-offs have been produced since the original Paper Mario game for the Nintendo 64 was published back in 2000. While each game in the series has added new features and modifications, the fundamental gameplay and storytelling have remained constant, giving fans a sense of familiarity and nostalgia while also getting to experience brand-new and cutting-edge activities. It goes without saying that no discussion about the Paper Mario series would be complete without bringing up the controversies surrounding the most recent installment, Paper Mario: The Origami King. While some players were dissatisfied by the game's departure from classic RPG battles and the lack of character advancement, others praised its novel features and interesting boss fights. Even if the game may not have won over every fan, it is obvious that the Paper Mario series continues to push the envelope and try new things, even if they don't always work. For straying from the characteristics that made the older games so adored, the Paper Mario series has come under fire recently. The series' shift away from RPG-style fighting and toward more conventional storytelling, as well as its emphasis on gimmicks like sticker collecting or card battles, have disappointed some fans. Despite these modifications, the games continue to be endearing, pleasurable experiences that provide a distinctive viewpoint on the Mario universe.
In general, the Paper Mario series is a wonderful illustration of what distinguishes Nintendo games from other genres. The series creates a memorable gaming experience by fusing inventive gameplay mechanics with captivating storyline, recognizable characters, and a distinctive visual aesthetic. The series has undergone numerous alterations over the years, but it has stayed faithful to its essential principles and continues to enthrall viewers both young and old. The Paper Mario games are a must-play for any Nintendo fan, regardless of your preference for RPGs, platformers, or just some good ol' fashioned fun. The ability of the Paper Mario series to combine elements of classic Mario gameplay with novel and creative concepts is ultimately what distinguishes it from other video game franchises. In addition to providing a welcome diversion from the typical Mario platforming, the paper-based world and RPG-style combat also give the game depth and personality. The Paper Mario games are definitely worth checking out if you're a longtime fan of the series or a novice looking for a fun and interesting gaming experience.
