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Mario & Luigi: Brothership

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mario & Luigi: Brothership
Item: Mario & Luigi: Brothership
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Platformer, Comedy, Side View Perspective, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableNov 7, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperAcquire

Overview

The brothers return for a brand new adventure on the high seas! Set sail with Mario and Luigi on Shipshape Island (part ship, part island) and journey through the vast world of Concordia. Launch out of Shipshape’s cannon to visit, explore, and quest your way through islands that range from tropical rainforests to bustling cities. Meet new friends along the way, like Connie and Snoutlet (who's definitely not a pig), and encounter familiar faces from the Mushroom Kingdom like Peach and Bowser, who may help you on your journey! You’ll have to rely on Mario and Luigi’s brotherly bond to succeed. Use Bros. Moves to get past obstacles while you explore, and powerful Bros. Attacks in a dynamic twist on turn-based combat. You’ll need every edge this 'brothership' will give you to save the day!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership charms with its themes of brotherhood and whimsical storytelling, resonating with critics who appreciate its humor and memorable characters. However, the narrative suffers from pacing issues and repetitiveness, leading some to find it overly bloated and predictable. While it delivers a family-friendly experience typical of the series, the execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a mixed but generally favorable reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

59%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions regarding the story of Mario & Luigi: Brothership present a mixture of positive sentiments that highlight the charm and thematic depth of the narrative. Critics like CGMagazine and My Nintendo News appreciate the focus on brotherly bonds and connectedness, with CGMagazine noting the "deep" theme of 'brothership' that runs throughout the game. The narrative's whimsical premise of reconnecting floating islands and the inclusion of humorous and well-written characters are praised by multiple reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Vooks, who commend the lightheartedness typical of the Mario series. Additionally, Shacknews points out the heartfelt nature of the story, emphasizing memorable characters and the introduction of new elements to the Mario RPG formula, which adds a refreshing twist to the gameplay experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the execution and pacing of the story. Checkpoint Gaming expresses concern over the narrative's size, suggesting that it feels overly large for its basic premise, leading to excessive dialogue and unnecessary characters. COGconnected echoes this sentiment, finding the story dull despite its fascinating premise. Other critics, such as God is a Geek and Wccftech, point out that the narrative can be repetitive and predictable, with stock villains and twists that lack excitement. The overall sentiment indicates that while the story has its strengths, such as humor and charm, it also suffers from pacing issues and a lack of captivating elements. The overall consensus among critics is that Mario & Luigi: Brothership offers a charming and family-friendly story that emphasizes themes of friendship and connection, but its execution leaves room for improvement. While some critics, like Twinfinite, highlight the engaging character moments and clever writing that elevate the narrative, others argue that the plot can be cumbersome and lacks the depth needed to make it truly memorable. Ultimately, the story is seen as a standard Mario experience that, while enjoyable, does not fully transcend the series' typical formula, leading to a mixed but generally favorable reception.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership impresses with its engaging, strategic turn-based combat and creative mechanics, like the Battle Plugs system promoting teamwork. Critics hail its blend of combat, exploration, and puzzles, appealing to RPG fans and newcomers. However, some drawbacks include clunky Bros. Moves and floaty traversal that may frustrate players. Overall, it’s a strong addition to the series, successfully merging familiar and fresh elements, though it may present a learning curve for some.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

88%

Mixed (50-79)

12%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Mario & Luigi: Brothership has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging mechanics and creative elements. Many reviewers praised the turn-based combat system, which features real-time elements and a variety of strategic options. For instance, CGMagazine noted the unique Battle Plugs system that encourages cooperation between Mario and Luigi, while Shacknews emphasized the added depth brought by the strategic boss battles and Luigi Logic mini-games. Critics like Twinfinite and Multiplayer.it appreciated the blend of turn-based combat with environmental puzzles and platforming, creating a dynamic experience that retains the charm of the series while introducing fresh mechanics. The game’s exploration and puzzle-solving aspects were also well-received, with My Nintendo News mentioning its gradual difficulty progression that appeals to both hardcore RPG fans and newcomers. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks that could impact the gameplay experience. Checkpoint Gaming mentioned that while the Bros. Moves add variety, they can feel clunky and contribute to slow pacing due to backtracking. COGconnected expressed frustration with the floaty traversal and the puzzles, suggesting that they might not meet the expectations of all players. Additionally, while the combat was generally praised, some reviewers noted that the complexity introduced by the new mechanics, such as the Battle Plugs and Bros. Moves, could lead to a learning curve that might deter less experienced players. In summary, the consensus among critics is largely favorable, with the majority agreeing that Mario & Luigi: Brothership offers a rich and enjoyable gameplay experience. Critics like Vooks and God is a Geek highlighted the successful integration of familiar mechanics with new features that enhance the overall enjoyment of the game. While there are some criticisms regarding pacing and puzzle design, the innovative combat system and the emphasis on brotherly cooperation resonate well with players. This combination of traditional RPG elements and fresh mechanics positions the game as a worthy addition to the Mario & Luigi franchise, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership wows with its vibrant aesthetics and unique design, earning praise for its lush colors and charming animations. Critics celebrate its artistic direction as a fresh take on the franchise. However, some point out technical flaws like basic graphics and texture issues, which could dampen the experience. Overall, it's a visually appealing game with minor readability hiccups, offering a delightful experience despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

75%

Mixed (50-79)

25%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Mario & Luigi: Brothership is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's vibrant and colorful aesthetics. CGMagazine highlights the "stunning aesthetic" and "unique visual theming" based on electrical appliances, while COGconnected and Multiplayer.it commend the "intense, lush, and lovely colors" that bring the game to life. Critics like God is a Geek and Daily Star appreciate the painterly cel-shaded style and cute character designs, noting that the game features expressive animations and diverse island themes. The New York Times also points out the dazzling visuals, with bright lights and a vibrant atmosphere that evoke comparisons to the Animal Crossing series. Overall, the game's artistic direction is seen as a refreshing take on the Mario franchise. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive, as some critics have raised concerns about the game's visual execution. Metro GameCentral mentions "basic graphics" and "poor texture work," indicating that some visual aspects do not meet expectations. TheSixthAxis echoes this sentiment, noting lower texture detail, particularly when played on a TV compared to handheld mode. Additionally, PlaySense points out that some assets may appear "slightly blurry," while Twinfinite mentions minor issues with slow loading and stuttery framerate in populated areas. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in artistic design, technical shortcomings may detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Mario & Luigi: Brothership boasts a vibrant and charming visual style that successfully captures the essence of the franchise while introducing new elements. Critics like Vooks and Wccftech celebrate the game's colorful and personality-packed visuals, despite acknowledging some minor polish issues. While the artistic direction is largely praised, concerns regarding texture quality and performance issues indicate that the game may not be without its flaws. Overall, Brothership is viewed as a visually appealing title that, despite some technical shortcomings, offers a delightful aesthetic experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership shines with its praised sound design and vibrant soundtrack, featuring catchy island themes and whimsical voice acting that enhance gameplay. Critics laud its engaging auditory experience, despite minor issues with sound mixing and tonal consistency. Overall, the music and sound elevate the game's charm, making it a standout feature.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Mario & Luigi: Brothership have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's engaging auditory experience. CGMagazine praises the "banging soundtrack" that varies by island theme, emphasizing the funky jazz battle theme that enhances the game's lighthearted atmosphere. Similarly, Twinfinite notes the "uplifting score" and unique island themes that contribute to the narrative and emotional weight of flashback cutscenes. Critics like Wccftech and God is a Geek echo this sentiment, commending the lively soundtrack that significantly enriches the overall gameplay experience. The charming gibberish voice acting mentioned by Multiplayer.it further adds a whimsical touch, making the sound design feel cohesive and enjoyable. Despite the strong praise, some criticisms have emerged regarding certain aspects of the sound design. Shacknews points out that while the music is delightful, there are instances of "odd sound mixing" during standard combat, which could detract from the overall immersion. This suggests that while the music is generally well-received, the execution in specific scenarios may not be as polished as expected. Inverse also offers a more nuanced perspective, noting that while the melodic piano music sets a solemn tone, it may not resonate with all players, depending on their expectations for the game's overall vibe. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Mario & Luigi: Brothership are strong assets that enhance the game's charm and appeal. The majority of reviewers, including CGMagazine, Twinfinite, and Wccftech, convey a sense of delight in the game's auditory elements, which contribute significantly to the enjoyment of the gameplay. While minor issues with sound mixing and tonal consistency were noted, these do not overshadow the overall positive reception. The game's soundtrack and sound design are celebrated as integral components that elevate the player experience, making it a noteworthy aspect of the title.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership on Nintendo Switch has a split reception: Some praise its stable performance and smooth framerate, while others criticize frequent loading screens, frame rate issues, and sound mixing problems. Overall, it shows promise but falls short of delivering a polished experience, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

Negative (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Mario & Luigi: Brothership on the Nintendo Switch has garnered a mix of opinions from various critics, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, some reviewers, such as PlaySense, noted that the game delivers a stable technical performance with a dynamic resolution and a generally smooth framerate. Vooks echoed this sentiment, stating that the game runs smoothly with minimal issues, aside from slight loading times. Multiplayer.it provided a balanced view by acknowledging minor inconveniences but ultimately deemed the overall technical performance as good. This suggests that while there are some concerns, the game manages to maintain a satisfactory level of performance for players. However, the negatives associated with the game's technical performance cannot be overlooked. Critics like COGconnected and Metro GameCentral pointed out significant issues, including frequent loading screens and a shaky frame rate that detracts from the gameplay experience. Twinfinite highlighted problems such as slow loading times, stuttery framerates in populated areas, and unskippable attack animations, indicating that these factors could hinder immersion. Shacknews also noted sound mixing issues during combat, adding to the technical shortcomings. Overall, these critiques paint a picture of a game that struggles with certain technical aspects, particularly in terms of fluidity and visual fidelity. The overall consensus among critics suggests a divided sentiment regarding the technical performance of Mario & Luigi: Brothership on the Nintendo Switch. While some reviewers like PlaySense and Vooks found the game to run well with only minor issues, others like Metro GameCentral and COGconnected raised significant concerns that could impact player enjoyment. The presence of frequent loading screens, frame rate instability, and sound mixing problems indicates that the game may not fully meet the expectations of players seeking a polished experience. Ultimately, while there are positive elements, the technical performance issues highlighted by multiple critics suggest that there is room for improvement in future updates or iterations of the game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership shines with its engaging side quests, collectibles, and varied gameplay that many critics believe enhance replayability. However, concerns about slow pacing, repetitive mechanics, and minor frustrations like loading times could dampen that experience. While it offers a rich world for exploration, replay value may not match earlier titles in the series. Players should find enough to love, but expectations for replayability may need to be tempered.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

46%

Mixed (50-79)

54%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Mario & Luigi: Brothership highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its longevity. Critics like CGMagazine and Multiplayer.it praise the game for its optional side quests, collectibles, and varied gameplay mechanics that enhance replayability. CGMagazine notes that the unique exploration and combat mechanics, along with the potential to uncover missed plot information, provide a compelling reason for players to return. Inverse echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the significant amount of content, including mini-games and optional activities, which can keep players engaged for multiple playthroughs. Furthermore, Shacknews points out that the branching story paths and valuable rewards from side quests add an extra layer of depth, making the game more enticing for those looking to explore every facet of the experience. However, several critics also raise concerns that could detract from the game's replay value. Checkpoint Gaming mentions that while the game offers various systems catering to both new and veteran players, the slow pacing and backtracking may hinder the overall replayability. Similarly, God is a Geek notes that despite the variety in gameplay mechanics, the repetitive nature of some elements could limit long-term engagement. TheSixthAxis also suggests that once the main story is completed, replayability may feel constrained, indicating that the experience might not be as rich upon subsequent playthroughs. Additionally, Twinfinite points out minor annoyances, such as slow loading times and unskippable animations, that could frustrate players and impact their willingness to replay the game. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Mario & Luigi: Brothership offers a balanced mix of replayable content and potential drawbacks. While many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and My Nintendo News, appreciate the substantial experience and engaging mechanics that provide replay value, others caution against the limitations posed by pacing issues and repetitive gameplay. The game seems to cater well to those who enjoy exploration and side content, but its replay value may not be as robust as previous entries in the series, as noted by critics like Vooks and Wccftech. Ultimately, players seeking a rich, multifaceted experience may find enough to enjoy, but those looking for a game with high replayability may need to temper their expectations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

63%

Mixed (50-79)

37%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Mario & Luigi: Brothership is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and delightful characterizations. CGMagazine highlights the game as a "fantastic new adventure," emphasizing its modern gameplay that remains true to the series' roots. Similarly, GamesHub describes it as "an absolute delight" with strong themes and dynamic combat, while Shacknews lauds its heartfelt story and lovable characters. Critics like My Nintendo News and Vooks echo this sentiment, recommending the game to both new players and long-time fans, which indicates a broad appeal across different demographics. However, despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, several reviewers noted certain drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. Checkpoint Gaming pointed out pacing issues and design choices that lead to slower gameplay, while COGconnected mentioned frustrating puzzles and repetitive boss fights. Additionally, God is a Geek and TheSixthAxis raised concerns about over-explaining and visual design, suggesting that while the gameplay mechanics are solid, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. Such critiques indicate that while the game excels in many aspects, it is not without its flaws. The overall consensus among critics is that Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a strong entry in the franchise, marked by its engaging gameplay and charming aesthetics, despite some technical and pacing issues. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Multiplayer.it acknowledge that while it may not reach the heights of the best titles in the series, it still provides a solid gameplay experience that is enjoyable. The majority of reviewers, including Daily Star, which awarded the game a 4 out of 5, suggest that it is a must-play for fans of the series. This favorable reception underscores the game's success in reviving the beloved franchise while offering a fresh yet familiar experience for players.

TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a hit, praised for its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and lovable characters. Critics celebrate it as a delightful adventure that balances modern mechanics with classic elements. However, some noted pacing issues, frustrating puzzles, and over-explanation that slightly mar the experience. Overall, it's a strong entry in the franchise, recommended for both newcomers and veterans, though not without its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

144 reviews found

Twinfinite

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi Brothership is a glorious return for the series, offering constant entertainment, engaging gameplay, and a well-crafted story with thematic depth. Small complaints like over-tutorialization do little to detract from the overall experience.

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Vooks

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a joy to play and an excellent addition to the Mario & Luigi series, recommended for both newcomers and long-term fans of Mario RPGs.

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GamesHub

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

An absolute delight with strong themes, art direction, dynamic combat, and cohesive game design, living up to the franchise's legacy.

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My Nintendo News

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is praised as an exceptional adventure with captivating narrative, engaging gameplay, and a boatload of fun, recommended for both new and existing fans of the series.

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Shacknews

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi: Brothership stands among the best Mario RPGs with its heartfelt story, lovable characters, and deeper combat system, offering a highly enjoyable experience.

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CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a fantastic new adventure for the beloved brothers, offering modern gameplay while staying true to the series. Memorable and authentic, though may not replace previous favorites in the series.

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Multiplayer.it

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is praised as a standout RPG title with a brilliant gameplay mix, charming visuals, and engaging combat system. Despite some technical issues and minor flaws, it is considered a must-play for fans of the series and those who appreciate Nintendo's style.

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The New York Times

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi: Brothership offers a compelling gameplay experience with a unique story and vibrant visuals, making it an enjoyable adventure for players.

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PlaySense

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mario & Luigi: Brothership revives a beloved franchise with engaging gameplay, a gradually unfolding story, and visually appealing designs, despite some initial pacing issues.

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Daily Star

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game receives a verdict of 4 out of 5, indicating a positive reception overall.

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