Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door Review – A Timeless Classic Returns on Nintendo Switch
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door for Nintendo Switch marks a triumphant return for one of the most beloved entries in Nintendo’s storied RPG franchise.
Developed by Intelligent Systems, this visually enhanced version resurrects the 2004 GameCube classic for a new generation and gives long-time fans a chance to revisit Rogueport’s paper-crafted world in higher fidelity. The adventure begins as Princess Peach acquires a mysterious treasure map while on holiday in the Mushroom Kingdom.
Soon, Mario is thrust into a journey to the rough-and-tumble town of Rogueport.
According to legend, an unknown treasure lies hidden behind the ominous Thousand-Year Door, and unlocking it requires the retrieval of seven elusive Crystal Stars scattered beneath the city’s surface. Since its original release, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has served as the gold standard for Intelligent Systems’ unique storytelling and gameplay blend.
The Nintendo Switch version remains true to this legacy, offering players the same rich, character-driven narrative combined with an engaging and witty script.
The game’s robust turn-based combat is elevated by memorable companions like Goombella, the university-inclined archaeology enthusiast; a feisty baby Yoshi; and Admiral Bobbery, the seasoned seafaring Bob-omb.
Each ally contributes unique skills for combat and puzzle-solving, ensuring continuous team rotation and engagement throughout the narrative’s many twists. The dynamic, stage-like battle system—complete with a reactive audience—returns, keeping encounters fresh.
Spectators may reward player actions or, if dissatisfied, add unpredictable hazards, enhancing the game’s signature humor and challenge.
Battles revolve around a mix of Action Commands, specialized abilities fueled by Flower Points, item strategies, and Special moves powered by the Crystal Stars, with each boss encounter presenting inventive obstacles to overcome. Nintendo has chosen to call this new release a "visually enhanced version" rather than a full remake, modernizing the visuals while preserving the core experience.
Enhancements include a newly arranged soundtrack by acclaimed composers Yoshito Hirano and Yuka Tsujiyoko, plus Sound and Art Galleries that allow players to revisit the game’s music and concept sketches.
Quality-of-life features have been added, such as Goombella’s gameplay hints for returning players, a Battle Master Toad offering combat advice, and a Pipe Room beneath Rogueport that helps Mario quickly backtrack through previously explored areas. These thoughtful additions address minor criticisms from the original, making the Nintendo Switch version accessible to newcomers without compromising the essence cherished by veterans.
While the new features aren’t revolutionary, they offer meaningful value and contribute to the game’s replayability. With its renowned fourth-wall-breaking comedy, inventive storyline, and thrilling combat, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door stands as a testament to Intelligent Systems’ creative prowess.
Whether you’re embarking on Mario’s Rogueport adventure for the first time or reliving fond memories, this Nintendo Switch release is a must-play celebration of one of the RPG genre’s most unique and engaging experiences.
Available now on the eShop, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is ready to delight old and new fans alike.
Developed by Intelligent Systems, this visually enhanced version resurrects the 2004 GameCube classic for a new generation and gives long-time fans a chance to revisit Rogueport’s paper-crafted world in higher fidelity. The adventure begins as Princess Peach acquires a mysterious treasure map while on holiday in the Mushroom Kingdom.
Soon, Mario is thrust into a journey to the rough-and-tumble town of Rogueport.
According to legend, an unknown treasure lies hidden behind the ominous Thousand-Year Door, and unlocking it requires the retrieval of seven elusive Crystal Stars scattered beneath the city’s surface. Since its original release, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has served as the gold standard for Intelligent Systems’ unique storytelling and gameplay blend.
The Nintendo Switch version remains true to this legacy, offering players the same rich, character-driven narrative combined with an engaging and witty script.
The game’s robust turn-based combat is elevated by memorable companions like Goombella, the university-inclined archaeology enthusiast; a feisty baby Yoshi; and Admiral Bobbery, the seasoned seafaring Bob-omb.
Each ally contributes unique skills for combat and puzzle-solving, ensuring continuous team rotation and engagement throughout the narrative’s many twists. The dynamic, stage-like battle system—complete with a reactive audience—returns, keeping encounters fresh.
Spectators may reward player actions or, if dissatisfied, add unpredictable hazards, enhancing the game’s signature humor and challenge.
Battles revolve around a mix of Action Commands, specialized abilities fueled by Flower Points, item strategies, and Special moves powered by the Crystal Stars, with each boss encounter presenting inventive obstacles to overcome. Nintendo has chosen to call this new release a "visually enhanced version" rather than a full remake, modernizing the visuals while preserving the core experience.
Enhancements include a newly arranged soundtrack by acclaimed composers Yoshito Hirano and Yuka Tsujiyoko, plus Sound and Art Galleries that allow players to revisit the game’s music and concept sketches.
Quality-of-life features have been added, such as Goombella’s gameplay hints for returning players, a Battle Master Toad offering combat advice, and a Pipe Room beneath Rogueport that helps Mario quickly backtrack through previously explored areas. These thoughtful additions address minor criticisms from the original, making the Nintendo Switch version accessible to newcomers without compromising the essence cherished by veterans.
While the new features aren’t revolutionary, they offer meaningful value and contribute to the game’s replayability. With its renowned fourth-wall-breaking comedy, inventive storyline, and thrilling combat, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door stands as a testament to Intelligent Systems’ creative prowess.
Whether you’re embarking on Mario’s Rogueport adventure for the first time or reliving fond memories, this Nintendo Switch release is a must-play celebration of one of the RPG genre’s most unique and engaging experiences.
Available now on the eShop, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is ready to delight old and new fans alike.
