Nintendo Switch players with a passion for both the Super Mario universe and turn-based RPGs have experienced an excellent run over the past year.
Along with the recent remakes of Super Mario RPG and Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, Nintendo fans now celebrate the much-anticipated return of the Mario & Luigi series—nearly a decade after its last outing.
With Mario & Luigi: Brothership, the acclaimed spin-off RPG franchise storms back with a fresh adventure, continuing the legacy of innovative gameplay and family-friendly storytelling that has defined the series since its origins.
**A Rich Narrative Set in the Land of Concordia** Staying spoiler-free, the main narrative of Mario & Luigi: Brothership takes the iconic plumber duo to the split-apart world of Concordia, where their teamwork becomes vital to reconnecting separated islands.
As the story unfolds, the stakes rise significantly, introducing both heartwarming and comedic moments through memorable dialogue and a diverse cast of distinctive characters.
The game’s writing shines—offering one of the most satisfying and engaging plots the Mario & Luigi series has seen, culminating in a rewarding conclusion for both newcomers and series veterans. **Exploring Shipshape Island and Beyond** Shipshape Island acts as the hub of Concordia, providing players with a dynamic map to steer their adventure as they unlock new islands and currents.
Main story progression remains largely linear, but players are occasionally given freedom in choosing which new zones to explore first.
Once an island is successfully linked, warp pipes offer fast travel—encouraging thorough exploration, item collection, and pursuit of side quests.
Players should note that some side quests are time-limited, rewarding attentive exploration. On each island, the objective is to locate the elusive ‘Connectar Plug’ to restore the land’s connection to Shipshape Island.
Reaching the plug involves engaging in strategic turn-based battles, solving clever puzzles, and interacting with Concordia’s quirky residents.
The fixed camera and full control over Mario, with Luigi trailing and offering unique assist abilities like ‘Luigi Logic,’ create distinctive puzzle-solving opportunities.
As progression continues, new ‘Bros.
Moves’ are unlocked, such as transforming into a UFO or rolling ball, adding variety and creativity to navigation and puzzles. **Accessible RPG Gameplay with Depth** True to Mario’s legacy, Brothership finds the right balance between accessibility and satisfying RPG complexity.
Gradual introduction of mechanics ensures that players are neither overwhelmed nor under-challenged, while an adjustable difficulty option lets less-experienced gamers sidestep frustration in tougher boss battles.
Autosaves and plentiful Save Blocks reinforce a forgiving, user-friendly design. Each brother possesses unique stats (HP, BP, Power, Defense, Speed, Stache) that can be improved through gear, experience, and level-ups.
Rank-up bonuses further reward engaged players.
While enemy encounters can be unpredictable, the freedom to flee (except in boss fights) maintains gameplay flow and player agency. **Engaging Turn-Based Combat Enhanced by Battle Plugs** Mario & Luigi: Brothership keeps battles lively and interactive through active timing mechanics and unique Bros.
Attacks.
Success is rooted in reflexes and pattern recognition, and the 30fps frame rate does not hinder gameplay responsiveness.
In-battle item usage, including classic Mushroom healing and 1-Up revival, remains key. A notable addition is the Battle Plug system—granting powerful passive abilities such as increased attack damage and status prevention.
These are crafted from collectible Sprite Bulbs and can be swapped during battles, deepening tactical choices.
Managing Battle Plugs, resources, and limited uses injects strategy into every encounter, sustaining player engagement over the game’s 30+ hour campaign. **A Must-Play for RPG Fans and Nintendo Switch Owners** Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a standout return to form for the series, delivering an imaginative adventure that celebrates both the Mario universe and sophisticated RPG design.
Its narrative charm, inventive mechanics, and accessible yet deep gameplay make it enjoyable for players of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the franchise, Mario & Luigi: Brothership deserves your attention when it launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch on 7th November 2024. *Review copy provided by Nintendo UK.*
Along with the recent remakes of Super Mario RPG and Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, Nintendo fans now celebrate the much-anticipated return of the Mario & Luigi series—nearly a decade after its last outing.
With Mario & Luigi: Brothership, the acclaimed spin-off RPG franchise storms back with a fresh adventure, continuing the legacy of innovative gameplay and family-friendly storytelling that has defined the series since its origins.
**A Rich Narrative Set in the Land of Concordia** Staying spoiler-free, the main narrative of Mario & Luigi: Brothership takes the iconic plumber duo to the split-apart world of Concordia, where their teamwork becomes vital to reconnecting separated islands.
As the story unfolds, the stakes rise significantly, introducing both heartwarming and comedic moments through memorable dialogue and a diverse cast of distinctive characters.
The game’s writing shines—offering one of the most satisfying and engaging plots the Mario & Luigi series has seen, culminating in a rewarding conclusion for both newcomers and series veterans. **Exploring Shipshape Island and Beyond** Shipshape Island acts as the hub of Concordia, providing players with a dynamic map to steer their adventure as they unlock new islands and currents.
Main story progression remains largely linear, but players are occasionally given freedom in choosing which new zones to explore first.
Once an island is successfully linked, warp pipes offer fast travel—encouraging thorough exploration, item collection, and pursuit of side quests.
Players should note that some side quests are time-limited, rewarding attentive exploration. On each island, the objective is to locate the elusive ‘Connectar Plug’ to restore the land’s connection to Shipshape Island.
Reaching the plug involves engaging in strategic turn-based battles, solving clever puzzles, and interacting with Concordia’s quirky residents.
The fixed camera and full control over Mario, with Luigi trailing and offering unique assist abilities like ‘Luigi Logic,’ create distinctive puzzle-solving opportunities.
As progression continues, new ‘Bros.
Moves’ are unlocked, such as transforming into a UFO or rolling ball, adding variety and creativity to navigation and puzzles. **Accessible RPG Gameplay with Depth** True to Mario’s legacy, Brothership finds the right balance between accessibility and satisfying RPG complexity.
Gradual introduction of mechanics ensures that players are neither overwhelmed nor under-challenged, while an adjustable difficulty option lets less-experienced gamers sidestep frustration in tougher boss battles.
Autosaves and plentiful Save Blocks reinforce a forgiving, user-friendly design. Each brother possesses unique stats (HP, BP, Power, Defense, Speed, Stache) that can be improved through gear, experience, and level-ups.
Rank-up bonuses further reward engaged players.
While enemy encounters can be unpredictable, the freedom to flee (except in boss fights) maintains gameplay flow and player agency. **Engaging Turn-Based Combat Enhanced by Battle Plugs** Mario & Luigi: Brothership keeps battles lively and interactive through active timing mechanics and unique Bros.
Attacks.
Success is rooted in reflexes and pattern recognition, and the 30fps frame rate does not hinder gameplay responsiveness.
In-battle item usage, including classic Mushroom healing and 1-Up revival, remains key. A notable addition is the Battle Plug system—granting powerful passive abilities such as increased attack damage and status prevention.
These are crafted from collectible Sprite Bulbs and can be swapped during battles, deepening tactical choices.
Managing Battle Plugs, resources, and limited uses injects strategy into every encounter, sustaining player engagement over the game’s 30+ hour campaign. **A Must-Play for RPG Fans and Nintendo Switch Owners** Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a standout return to form for the series, delivering an imaginative adventure that celebrates both the Mario universe and sophisticated RPG design.
Its narrative charm, inventive mechanics, and accessible yet deep gameplay make it enjoyable for players of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the franchise, Mario & Luigi: Brothership deserves your attention when it launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch on 7th November 2024. *Review copy provided by Nintendo UK.*
