Super Paper Mario

What’s the Story?

Mario seems to begin SUPER PAPER MARIO as he does many previous Mario games: on a quest to save Princess Peach. But before long, his mission becomes one to save all the worlds in the universe from a destructive super villain named Count Bleck, and Mario is even joined by Peach and other old friends during his journey. Mario's most powerful ability is the power to flip the world from a flat, old-school two-dimensional presentation to a three-dimensional view that makes each level look something like a long and broad hallway. Flipping the world from 2-D to 3-D reveals pathways and treasures hidden in the two-dimensional view; hills in the background might hide doors and giant enemies become paper-thin obstacles that Mario can simply run around.

Is It Any Good?

Unlike previous Paper Mario games, Super Paper Mario is engrossing and action-packed. Changing dimensions creates unique puzzles that should keep players exploring for the entire length of this 20-hour-plus game. The worlds are populated with great characters and stunning visuals. Each world is beautiful, with bright cartoony visuals and inventive level design.

As great as it is, Super Paper Mario is not perfect. Although four characters eventually become available, most are used only in a few specific situations and they feel superfluous. The game may not be challenging enough for experienced gamers. But Super Paper Mario is so much fun to play and so dazzling in its style that these weaknesses are easy to forgive.