Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door Review
Nintendo’s new Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remake stands out for its ability to bring joy while also serving as a reminder of the series’ decline.
This isn't a reflection on the quality of the original GameCube game or the Switch remake. Nintendo has elegantly revived a beloved Mario RPG, with stunning HD visuals, a refreshed soundtrack, the same humor and charm from 20 years ago, and simple yet engaging turn-based combat.
The issue lies in the mediocre Paper Mario games released since the original Thousand-Year Door. This remake highlights how dull the series has become. However, if you can overlook this, the remake is a wonderful way to revisit or experience the classic for the first time.
As with most Mario RPGs, Thousand-Year Door’s plot is more about humor than a gripping narrative. Mario receives a letter from Princess Peach inviting him to Rogueport, a seedy seaside town rumored to hide treasure behind the Thousand-Year Door. Upon arrival, Peach is missing, prompting Mario to collect seven Crystal Stars to open the door and rescue her.
The story setup is basic but effective, thanks to sharp writing. Mario's party members, including a spirited Goomba, an old Bob-omb sailor, and a mohawked baby Yoshi, add personality, especially as Mario silently pantomimes through interactions. Memorable moments include a chapter reminiscent of Murder on the Orient Express.
These vibrant characters underscore the blandness of later Paper Mario games. Nintendo’s current mandate against creative character takes limits the series. This remake starkly contrasts with games like Paper Mario: The Origami King, making them feel lackluster by comparison. Unless Nintendo changes its approach, releasing this remake highlights how much better the series used to be.
Thousand-Year Door’s turn-based combat, with timing-based button prompts for enhanced moves and defense, remains engaging. Mario and a partner fight together, with partners swappable for different situations. The mechanics require strategic thinking, with various enemy types needing specific approaches and status effects adding complexity.
In contrast, Origami King's combat often felt like pointless puzzles without RPG progression. Thousand-Year Door’s upgrade system (leveling up core stats) offers a balanced RPG experience for both kids and experienced players.
Outside of combat, some dungeons can be repetitive. While some are well-paced with clever puzzles, others, like the gladiator arena, drag on. However, the new partner wheel menu streamlines gameplay, allowing easy partner switching for traversal and puzzle-solving.
Visually, the remake shines with its charming Paper Mario art style, expressive lighting, and sharp HD resolution. Buildings fold like dioramas, and paper characters are lively in a 3D world. The art direction stands the test of time.
The soundtrack, newly rearranged with real instruments, offers a fresh take on the original MIDI tones. While this may be controversial, the option to use the old music remains, and the new tracks are enjoyable.
Thousand-Year Door is not a difficult game, suitable for younger audiences. Boss fights are manageable if you level up properly, and puzzles can be straightforward, with partners providing hints. It’s an easy game, fitting for its target audience.
Performance-wise, the remake runs smoothly at 30 frames per second on Switch without notable bugs. Though a 60 fps rate would be ideal, the steady performance is satisfactory.
VERDICT
In conclusion, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a worthwhile RPG that retains its charm. While not a radical remake, it faithfully recreates the original with modern enhancements. For newcomers or those who missed the original, the Switch version is the best way to experience it, despite the reminder of the series' past excellence.