Super Mario RPG Switch Remake Review: A Faithful Revival of an SNES Classic

Super Mario RPG: A Faithful Remake Brings SNES RPG Magic to Nintendo Switch The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is often hailed as a golden age for RPGs, with Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars standing out as one of its crowning achievements.

Originally developed through a collaboration between Nintendo and Square, Super Mario RPG not only marked Mario’s first foray into role-playing games, but also introduced gameplay mechanics and comic sensibilities that would influence future series like Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi.

While many Nintendo fans anticipated the original would make a comeback via Nintendo Switch Online, Nintendo instead delivered a full remake, launched worldwide for Nintendo Switch on November 17, 2023, reintroducing a generation-defining title to a new audience. A Fresh Yet Faithful Adventure Super Mario RPG’s story begins in classic Mario fashion—a rescue mission that swiftly evolves into a quest to recover seven Star Fragments and restore the shattered Star Road, all while facing the unique threat posed by the Smithy Gang.

The remake preserves the original’s fast-paced narrative, focusing less on large-scale exposition and more on sharp writing, whimsical humor, and charm.

Notable moments include Bowser’s reluctant partnership with Mario, delivering amusing dialogue and adding new layers to his character beyond his role as a villain. Dynamic Party System and Engaging Combat Players will meet familiar favorites Mallow and Geno early in the adventure, with Bowser and Princess Peach joining the party later, offering a total of five playable characters.

Mario remains a constant in the lineup, but party members can be swapped on the fly—even during battle, if another falls.

This flexibility extends to combat, where strategic use of party abilities is key.

The Action Command system, a hallmark of the original, returns: battles progress at a deliberate pace to allow precise button presses that can boost damage dealt or reduce incoming harm.

Success in these timed inputs fills a special gauge for Triple Moves, unique cinematic attacks that vary depending on your party composition, enhancing both strategic depth and excitement. While these mechanics make combat tactile and rewarding, some attacks remain unblockable and particularly debilitating, echoing challenging aspects of classic game design.

The remake counters this with a newcomer-friendly Breezy Mode, which eases the difficulty level for players who may struggle with reaction-based commands. Beyond the Main Quest Outside of battle, Super Mario RPG delights with varied minigames, puzzles, and hidden treasures.

From platforming set-pieces to environmental challenges and collectible currency called Frog Coins, the gameplay remains fresh and engaging, encouraging players to explore every corner of the Mushroom Kingdom.

Optional sidequests and postgame content provide additional longevity and challenge for dedicated players. Modern Shine with Nostalgic Roots Visually, the Nintendo Switch remake delivers a beautifully remastered experience, maintaining fidelity to the original’s playful designs while upgrading detail and introducing crisp new cutscenes.

Cameos from other Nintendo franchises and carefully enhanced environments make for a visually rich journey.

Critically acclaimed composer Yoko Shimomura returns to update the soundtrack, creating new arrangements that remain true to the SNES version’s spirited themes; players can also opt to switch to the original score via an in-game menu. Super Mario RPG’s main story can be completed in roughly 10 hours, but thorough players seeking hidden treasures and postgame challenges may spend up to 30.

The game performs with flawless stability on Nintendo Switch, ensuring tight controls and minimal load times—crucial in a game reliant on timing and precision. Final Verdict Super Mario RPG on Nintendo Switch is a model remake, capturing the original’s wit, charm, and inventive spirit while gracefully adapting it for modern play.

While some aspects—such as platforming or certain obtuse puzzles—may show their age, the overall experience remains gripping and accessible.

With its outstanding visuals, remastered soundtrack, and refined mechanics, Super Mario RPG stands as a testament to Nintendo’s enduring ability to celebrate its retro legacy while welcoming new fans. Score: 9/10 A review copy of Super Mario RPG for Nintendo Switch was provided by Nintendo UK.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Mario SNES Switch Super Mario Xbox Series X|S Super Mario RPG SNES Classic Yoko Shimomura Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars Paper Mario Mario and Luigi Smithy Gang Mushroom Kingdom Bowser Peach Mallow Geno