Much like Super Mario RPG prior to this I never really played Paper Mario. I always heard good things about it just never got around to picking it up and playing it. So when the remake was announced I was happy to give the game a chance. Paper Mario The Thousand Year Door is an RPG and much like other Mario games in this genre it is more a game that isn’t too hard for beginners to learn the mechanics, but harder to actually master. Mario games have always had that trend easy to pick up and beat the game, but hard to master the controls and mechanics for the harder or optional challenges.

The game differs from other RPGs being more reaction based over stat based. Much like the Mario and Luigi RPG series you can dodge and counterattack called the Superguard. The timing on this is hard to get and due to that I never used it preferring to guard and use healing items or recovery moves. One huge difference is the audience watching the combat as their appeal and the crowd rises you can gain access to special more powerful moves or they can throw useful items to you, but they also can throw rocks and cans doing damage. Certain moves and members can effect the stage in different ways making the backdrop fall, the smoke freezing you or your enemies, or lights to fall. All of the bosses also affect this either by scaring the audience off or attacking them so they can’t help the player gain appeal as easily. Appeal rises mostly by pulling off moves and defeating enemies. The more members of the crowd the more appeal. There are ways to get more appeal either by performing a stylish move by pressing A at the right time or showing off to the audience.

The story is the normal Princess Peach got kidnapped you need to find her and find the Crystal Stars to open a door. Most Mario RPGs actually don’t have Bowser as a main villain sometimes he helps as much as attacks you. He is involved in the main story just not as the main antagonist and didn’t kidnap her. Each chapter has its own theme and storyline all contributing to the main story. Each NPC and main character has their own charm making the story and writing more enjoyable.

The graphics looking like everything is made out of paper crafts and cardboard showcasing a world completely made out of paper is nice to look at adding a level of charm to it. The gameplay is fun and is a thoroughly enjoyable experience I’d recommend it if you haven’t played this game yet.

Score: 9/10