Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga Game Review

Introduction to Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga

The Mario RPG series has always been a playground for Nintendo to innovate. From transforming characters into 2D paper forms to pairing Mario with unexpected allies, these spinoffs offer fans something fresh and exciting. This was particularly true in 2003 with the release of Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga for the Game Boy Advance. This game redefined many series staples and set the stage for future titles. Now, Nintendo has remade this classic for the 3DS, incorporating several tweaks and a new story mode. This remake is not only a fantastic update but also an excellent entry point for newcomers to the Mario RPGs.

Plot Overview

Princess Peach is in peril once again. However, this time, she hasn't been kidnapped. Instead, an evil wizard has stolen her voice and replaced it with explosive characters. Every time Peach speaks, she endangers everyone and everything around her. Even Bowser is furious, as he can't kidnap her if she can blow him away with just a few words. Thus, Mario and Luigi embark on a quest to defeat the enemy and restore her voice, with Bowser supporting them whenever he can.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga is a delightful and rewarding adventure, filled with humor and magical moments. The Mario RPG series is known for its excellent writing, with a strong emphasis on comedy that works remarkably well. This is evident once again in Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga + Bowser’s Minions on the 3DS.

Key Features

• Turn-Based Combat: The game features a unique turn-based combat system where timing and strategy are crucial.
• Exploration: Players can explore various regions, each filled with puzzles, enemies, and hidden items.
• Humor: The game is packed with witty dialogue and humorous situations, making it a joy to play.

New Additions in the 3DS Remake

The 3DS remake, Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga + Bowser’s Minions, introduces several new features and improvements:

• Enhanced Graphics: The game boasts updated graphics that make the vibrant world even more appealing.
• New Story Mode: The addition of Bowser’s Minions mode offers a fresh perspective on the story, allowing players to control a squad of Bowser’s minions in their own adventure.
• Quality of Life Improvements: Various tweaks have been made to improve the overall gameplay experience, such as streamlined menus and better controls.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Sales Figures: As of 2021, the original Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga has sold over 2.15 million copies worldwide. Source: VGChartz
• Critical Acclaim: The game holds a Metacritic score of 90/100, indicating universal acclaim. Source: Metacritic
• Development Time: The original game took approximately two years to develop, with a team of around 40 people. Source: IGN

Conclusion

Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga + Bowser’s Minions is a standout title in the Mario RPG series. With its engaging story, humorous writing, and innovative gameplay mechanics, it offers a unique experience that both newcomers and longtime fans will enjoy. The 3DS remake enhances the original game with improved graphics, a new story mode, and various quality-of-life improvements, making it a must-play for any Mario enthusiast.

For more information on the game and its features, you can visit the official Nintendo website.