Your First Paper Mario Game: Where To Begin?

by Admin 45 views
Your First Paper Mario Game: Where to Begin?

So, you're looking to jump into the delightful and quirky world of Paper Mario, huh? That's awesome, guys! You've probably seen all the colorful characters, the unique turn-based battles, and the charming stories, and now you're wondering, "Which one should I actually start with?" It's a super common question, and honestly, there's no single wrong answer. However, there are definitely some games that offer a better introduction to the series than others. We're going to break down the Paper Mario games, talk about what makes each one special, and help you figure out the perfect starting point for your adventure. Get ready to dive into a world where papercraft meets epic quests!

The OG: Paper Mario (N64) - A Classic Choice

Let's kick things off with the game that started it all: Paper Mario on the Nintendo 64. If you have access to an N64, an emulator, or even Nintendo Switch Online, this is a fantastic place to begin. The original Paper Mario really set the tone for the series with its unique visual style and engaging gameplay. You play as Mario, who, after Bowser once again kidnaps Princess Peach, finds himself transformed into a flat, paper-like version of himself. This transformation is not just a visual gag; it's central to the gameplay, allowing Mario to do things like flatten himself to slide under obstacles, spin like a T.V. to avoid damage, or use his paper form to catch a gust of wind. The story is classic Mario, but with a twist that feels fresh and inventive. The battle system is where Paper Mario truly shines. It's turn-based, but with a significant action-command element. During your turns, you'll need to press buttons in time with attacks to deal more damage or block enemy hits effectively. This adds a layer of engagement that makes every fight feel more interactive and less passive than traditional RPGs. The partner system is also introduced here, with various characters joining Mario on his journey, each with their own unique abilities that help in both exploration and battle. The world is filled with charm, humor, and memorable characters, from Goombas who feel surprisingly emotional to grumpy Koopa Troopas. The pixel art style, while dated by today's standards, holds up remarkably well and contributes to the game's unique aesthetic. Exploring the Mushroom Kingdom in this paper-thin form is a joy, and the puzzles you encounter often cleverly utilize Mario's paper abilities. If you're a purist who wants to see where the magic began, or if you appreciate a game that respects your input in battles, Paper Mario (N64) is an excellent choice. It’s a foundational experience that gives you the full flavor of what the series is all about, without any of the later controversies or shifts in design. Plus, the music is absolutely fantastic, a common thread throughout the entire Paper Mario series.

The Beloved Sequel: Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (GameCube) - The Fan Favorite

Ah, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (TTYD). If you ask most fans which Paper Mario game is the best, a lot of them will point to this GameCube gem. And honestly, it's easy to see why. TTYD takes everything great about the original and cranks it up to eleven. The story is more epic, the characters are even more memorable, and the gameplay mechanics are refined to near perfection. You play as Mario once again, this time investigating a mysterious treasure map and a legendary door said to hold untold riches. This quest leads you through a vibrant world filled with distinct towns, quirky inhabitants, and dangerous dungeons. The visual style is a significant upgrade from the N64, with richer colors, more detailed environments, and expressive character animations that truly bring the paper world to life. The battle system builds upon the original, adding new move types, improved action commands, and the introduction of the 'Superguard' – a perfectly timed block that can even reflect certain attacks back at enemies. The audience in the arena also plays a role, cheering you on or sometimes throwing obstacles in your way, adding another layer of dynamic interaction to combat. Exploration is expanded with new paper-based abilities like the 'Tube Mode' (rolling into a cylinder) and 'Paper Plane Mode' (gliding through the air), which are used to solve clever environmental puzzles and access new areas. The narrative is a masterclass in storytelling for a Mario game, featuring a compelling mystery, surprisingly emotional character arcs, and genuinely funny dialogue. The villains are more fleshed out, and the stakes feel higher than in many other Mario titles. The partner characters are also a highlight, with each having their own unique personality, backstory, and utility in both exploration and combat. From the surprisingly tough Goombella to the wise Koops and the flamboyant Koops, you'll grow attached to this ragtag crew. TTYD is often considered the pinnacle of the Paper Mario series, and for good reason. It perfectly balances engaging gameplay, a captivating story, and an abundance of charm. If you have a GameCube or a way to play GameCube games (like the Wii U virtual console or emulation), diving into TTYD first is a fantastic choice. It’s an experience that many consider to be one of the best RPGs on the GameCube, and it showcases the Paper Mario formula at its absolute best. It’s a game that respects your time, rewards your efforts, and leaves a lasting impression.

The Charming Handheld: Paper Mario: Sticker Star (3DS) - A Different Direction

Now, things get a bit... different with Paper Mario: Sticker Star on the Nintendo 3DS. This entry definitely sparked some debate among fans, and it’s a game that takes the series in a new direction. Sticker Star focuses heavily on item collection and usage, particularly stickers, which are now essential for almost every action, from attacking to using special abilities. The story involves Bowser tearing up the Sticker Fest and scattering the Royal Stickers, which Mario must then retrieve. Visually, it's stunning on the 3DS, with vibrant, pop-up book-like environments that really utilize the console's capabilities. However, the gameplay changes are quite significant. The traditional partner system is gone, and the RPG elements are scaled back considerably. Battles are still turn-based, but instead of leveling up and gaining permanent stat increases, your progression is tied to finding better and more powerful stickers. This can make battles feel more like puzzles, where you need to use the right sticker to defeat certain enemies, especially bosses. If you don't have the required sticker, you might be in trouble. This reliance on consumables can be frustrating for some players, as you can even run out of essential stickers, making certain sections of the game very difficult, or even impossible, to progress without backtracking or exploiting glitches. The world is designed with exploration in mind, and finding hidden stickers and secrets is a big part of the appeal. The humor is still present, and the visual charm is undeniable. However, the absence of traditional RPG progression and the sometimes-punishing sticker mechanics make it a less straightforward entry point for newcomers. Sticker Star is a game that you might appreciate more after experiencing the earlier titles, as it deviates quite a bit from the established formula. If you're curious about this specific entry, go in with an open mind, understanding that it's more of an item-based puzzle adventure than a traditional RPG. It’s a game that prioritizes clever sticker management and strategic consumption over character growth. Some players enjoy this unique challenge, while others find it a bit too restrictive. It's definitely an acquired taste within the series.

The Most Recent: Paper Mario: The Origami King (Switch) - Story and Exploration Focused

Let's talk about the latest mainline entry, Paper Mario: The Origami King for the Nintendo Switch. This game is a huge departure from previous titles, and it’s important to go into it with the right expectations. Origami King puts a massive emphasis on its story, characters, and exploration, offering one of the most engaging narratives in the Paper Mario universe. You play as Mario, who, along with Olivia, a newly introduced origami princess, must stop King Olly from folding the world into a new origami form. The visuals are absolutely stunning, pushing the papercraft aesthetic to new heights with incredible detail and animation. The world is vast and filled with secrets to discover, charming towns, and unique characters to meet. Exploration is a major highlight, with many areas encouraging you to look around every corner for hidden Toads, coins, and the all-important 'toadally' helpful tips. However, the battle system is where things get really different. Instead of traditional turn-based combat, Origami King introduces a ring-based puzzle system. Enemies are arranged on concentric rings, and you have to slide and rotate the rings to line up enemies for maximum damage. It’s a novel concept that requires strategic thinking and quick execution. While it can be fun and refreshing, it's also a system that some players found repetitive or cumbersome, especially during longer play sessions. The RPG elements from the earlier games are almost entirely absent; there's no leveling up, and progression is tied to finding new 'Battle Accessories' that offer passive bonuses or allow for more turns. Origami King is arguably the most story-driven Paper Mario game, and its charm and humor are top-notch. If you value a rich narrative, a beautiful world to explore, and a unique, puzzle-centric battle system, you might love this game as your first entry. It's a fantastic adventure game with Paper Mario elements, but it's not a traditional RPG in the way TTYD or the original are. It offers a more relaxed experience for those who enjoy story and exploration over deep combat mechanics. The writing is exceptionally witty, and the characters you meet along the way are incredibly endearing. It’s a game that shines brightest when you embrace its unique take on the genre and focus on the journey it provides.

The Verdict: Where Should You REALLY Start?

So, after all that, which Paper Mario game should you play first? It really boils down to what you're looking for in an experience.

  • For the Purist & RPG Fan: Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is almost universally recommended as the best starting point. It perfectly encapsulates the series' charm, gameplay, and storytelling. If you can play it, do it! Paper Mario (N64) is also a solid choice if TTYD isn't accessible, offering the foundational experience.
  • For the Story & Exploration Lover: Paper Mario: The Origami King is a great pick. It’s visually stunning, has an incredibly engaging story, and offers a unique, puzzle-based combat system. Just be prepared for a departure from traditional RPG mechanics.
  • For the Curious (but proceed with caution): Paper Mario: Sticker Star is probably best played after you've experienced other entries. Its heavy reliance on consumables and unique mechanics can be a barrier for newcomers.

Ultimately, guys, the Paper Mario series offers something special, no matter which entry you pick. But if you want the most classic, beloved Paper Mario experience to start your journey, The Thousand-Year Door is your golden ticket. Happy adventuring!