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Mario & Luigi: Brothership

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mario & Luigi: Brothership
Item: Mario & Luigi: Brothership
Author: MonsterCritic 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

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership impresses with its charming narrative centered on brotherhood and humor, appealing to both kids and nostalgic fans. However, critics note its overly expansive plot suffers from excessive dialogue, predictability, and pacing issues, leading to mixed reviews. While it’s a fun addition to the series, it may not satisfy those seeking deeper storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Mario & Luigi: Brothership has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its charming and family-friendly narrative. Several reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Nintendojo, highlight the central theme of brotherhood and connection, which resonates throughout the game. Critics like My Nintendo News and Shacknews commend the well-written dialogues and memorable characters, suggesting that the narrative offers a refreshing take within the Mario franchise. The incorporation of humor and lightheartedness, as noted by Multiplayer.it and Vooks, adds to the overall appeal, making it suitable for a younger audience while still engaging for older players. Furthermore, the unique setting of Concordia, with its floating islands and whimsical elements, is appreciated by critics like Metro GameCentral and Daily Star, who find the premise intriguing. However, the story is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and God is a Geek, argue that the narrative is overly expansive for its simple premise, leading to excessive dialogue and unnecessary character introductions. COGconnected and Wccftech point out that while the plot has potential, its execution falls flat, resulting in a dull experience. Additionally, some critics, like Inverse and TheSixthAxis, mention that the story beats are predictable and lack the depth that could elevate the overall experience. This sentiment is echoed by others who feel that the narrative is repetitive and over-explained, detracting from the enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Mario & Luigi: Brothership features a delightful premise and engaging themes centered on connection and brotherhood, but struggles with execution and pacing. While some, like Twinfinite, find the narrative to be well-crafted and engaging, others believe it fails to break free from predictability and excessive dialogue. The mixed reviews indicate that while the game has its charm and humor, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more compelling and cohesive story. Ultimately, it appears that Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a fun, albeit flawed, addition to the series that will likely resonate more with younger audiences and dedicated fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership impresses with its engaging turn-based combat, innovative mechanics like Battle Plugs and 'Luigi Logic,' and deep strategic elements, appealing to both RPG veterans and newcomers. Critics praise its satisfying gameplay but note issues like clunky Bros. Moves, frustrating puzzles, and a linear structure that limits exploration. Overall, it’s a strong addition to the franchise, balancing familiar charm with fresh features.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Mario & Luigi: Brothership has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging blend of turn-based combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving. Reviewers like CGMagazine and Multiplayer.it praised the game's innovative mechanics, such as the Battle Plugs system and the introduction of 'Luigi Logic,' which enhance the cooperative gameplay between Mario and Luigi. Additionally, the turn-based combat is noted for its depth and strategic elements, with critics like Twinfinite and Shacknews commending the dynamic battle system that incorporates unique enemy attack patterns and challenging boss encounters. The overall experience is described as satisfying and enjoyable, appealing to both hardcore RPG fans and newcomers, as noted by My Nintendo News. However, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks that detracted from the overall 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 mechanics and the puzzles, which some found to be overly challenging or frustrating. Additionally, the linear structure of the game, as noted by CGMagazine, may limit exploration for players seeking a more open-world experience. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Mario & Luigi: Brothership delivers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience. The majority of critics, including Vooks and God is a Geek, appreciated the balance of familiar mechanics with fresh elements, creating a rich environment for exploration and combat. The game successfully maintains the charm of the Mario & Luigi series while introducing new features that enhance the gameplay. As a result, the game is seen as a worthy addition to the franchise, with many reviewers expressing excitement for its engaging mechanics and the cooperative dynamic between the titular characters.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership dazzles with its vibrant visuals and charming art style, earning praise for its stunning aesthetics and lively colors. However, critics point out technical flaws like poor texture quality and frame rate issues that detract from the overall experience. While the game's artistic direction shines, its execution falls short of Nintendo's high standards, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Mario & Luigi: Brothership have received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's stunning aesthetic and vibrant color palette. CGMagazine praised the "stunning aesthetic" with its cartoonish, cel-shaded look, while COGconnected noted the "intense, lush, and lovely colors" that bring the game to life. Reviewers like Daily Star and Nintendojo appreciated the cute character designs and unique hand-drawn art style, which enhances character visibility and adds charm to the overall presentation. The game's diverse island themes and expressive character designs were also commended, with GamesHub and The New York Times emphasizing the delightful animations and dynamic environments that contribute to the game's whimsical atmosphere. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the game's graphics. Metro GameCentral criticized the graphics as "basic" and mentioned poor texture work and a shaky frame rate, which detracted from the overall experience. TheSixthAxis echoed this sentiment, raising concerns about lower texture detail, particularly when played on a TV compared to handheld mode. Additionally, PlaySense noted that while the game features visually appealing designs, some assets appeared "slightly blurry," indicating a lack of polish in certain areas. These criticisms suggest that while the game excels in artistic direction, technical execution may not meet the high standards expected from a Nintendo title. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Mario & Luigi: Brothership successfully delivers a vibrant and charming visual experience, though it is not without its flaws. The majority of reviewers, including Vooks and Wccftech, highlighted the game's bright and colorful visuals, which evoke nostalgia for earlier series entries. However, the concerns raised about texture quality and frame rate issues indicate that there is room for improvement. In summary, while the game shines in its artistic design and creativity, it faces challenges in technical performance that could impact the player's experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership boasts a vibrant and diverse soundtrack that's been praised for enhancing gameplay and emotional depth. Critics rave about its catchy tunes and engaging themes, though some note occasional sound mixing issues during combat and tonal inconsistencies. Overall, the soundtrack is a standout feature that significantly elevates the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (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, with many praising the game's vibrant and diverse soundtrack. CGMagazine highlights the "banging soundtrack" that varies with each island theme, noting the funky jazz battle theme that enhances the game's lighthearted atmosphere. Similarly, God is a Geek describes the music as "gorgeous," complementing the gameplay experience effectively. Critics like Twinfinite also emphasize the uplifting score, particularly appreciating the delightful ship theme and unique island motifs that enhance narrative elements and emotional weight during flashback cutscenes. Overall, the music is noted for its ability to create an engaging and enjoyable backdrop to the gameplay, with Wccftech affirming that the lively soundtrack adds significantly to the overall experience. Despite the generally favorable reception, a few critiques 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 may detract from the overall immersion. This suggests that while the compositions themselves are well-received, the execution in specific scenarios might not always meet the high standards set by the rest of the audio experience. Additionally, Inverse mentions a more somber tone with melodic piano music, indicating a potential inconsistency in the emotional delivery across different game segments. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Mario & Luigi: Brothership excels in its sound design and music, creating a vibrant and engaging auditory landscape. The majority of reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and Wccftech, agree that the soundtrack enhances the gameplay experience, with catchy tunes and charming details like gibberish voice acting adding to the charm. While there are minor criticisms regarding sound mixing and tonal consistency, these do not overshadow the overall positive sentiment towards the game's audio elements. Critics collectively affirm that the soundtrack is a significant highlight, contributing to the game's enjoyment and emotional depth.

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 the Nintendo Switch has received mixed reviews for its technical performance. While some critics praise its stable frame rate and smooth gameplay, others highlight frequent loading screens, basic visuals, and frame rate issues, particularly in crowded areas. Overall, the game offers an enjoyable experience but is hindered by notable technical flaws, leaving room for improvement that could affect player satisfaction.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (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 positive feedback from various critics. PlaySense noted that the game provides a stable technical performance, highlighting its dynamic resolution and generally smooth framerate, which is a significant plus for players seeking a consistent gaming experience. Vooks echoed this sentiment, stating that the game runs smoothly with minimal issues, aside from slight loading times. Multiplayer.it also offered a somewhat favorable perspective, suggesting that while there are minor inconveniences, the overall technical performance is considered good. These positive remarks indicate that, despite some flaws, the game manages to deliver an enjoyable experience on the Switch. However, several critics pointed out notable negatives that detract from the overall experience. COGconnected mentioned frequent loading screens that hinder gameplay, while Metro GameCentral criticized the game for basic visuals, poor texture work, and an unstable frame rate. Twinfinite highlighted issues with slow loading times and stuttery framerates in populated areas, as well as unskippable animations that could frustrate players. Shacknews also pointed out sound mixing issues during combat, adding to the list of technical shortcomings. These criticisms suggest that while the game has its strengths, there are several technical aspects that need improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Mario & Luigi: Brothership on the Nintendo Switch is mixed. While some reviewers like PlaySense and Vooks found the game to run smoothly with only minor issues, others like Metro GameCentral and Twinfinite raised significant concerns about loading times, frame rate stability, and visual quality. The presence of both positive and negative feedback indicates that while the game has a solid foundation, it is marred by technical flaws that could impact the enjoyment for some players. As such, the game may appeal to fans of the series, but it also leaves room for improvement in its technical execution.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership offers decent replay value with side quests, collectibles, and a deep combat system, promising 30-40 hours of gameplay. However, critics point out slow pacing, repetitive gameplay, and lackluster side content as major drawbacks that may limit long-term appeal. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—great for some fun, but cautious players might find it hard to stay engaged after the first run.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Mario & Luigi: Brothership is mixed, with several critics highlighting its strengths. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Inverse, appreciate the inclusion of optional side quests, mini-games, and various exploration elements that contribute to the game's replayability. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Shacknews emphasize the variety of collectibles and branching story paths that enhance the experience, suggesting that players can engage with the game in multiple ways. The combat system and Brother Actions are also noted for their depth, making a second playthrough appealing, as mentioned by Twinfinite. Overall, the game offers a substantial amount of content, with some critics estimating gameplay to last around 30 to 40 hours, which adds to its replay value. However, despite these positives, several critics express concerns that may hinder long-term replayability. Checkpoint Gaming points out the slow pacing and backtracking as potential drawbacks, which could frustrate players during subsequent playthroughs. God is a Geek and Nintendojo note the repetitive nature of gameplay and the monotony of retreading familiar steps against the same enemies, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, COGconnected mentions that while side content exists, it may not be compelling enough to encourage players to return. Critics like TheSixthAxis also highlight that replayability may be limited once the main story is completed, indicating that the game may lack the engaging hooks needed to draw players back in. In summary, the consensus among critics suggests that while Mario & Luigi: Brothership offers a variety of content and mechanics that provide some replay value, significant concerns regarding pacing, repetitiveness, and the overall engagement of side content may limit its appeal for multiple playthroughs. Critics like My Nintendo News and Vooks acknowledge the potential for replayability through decision-making and exploration, but the overarching sentiment reflects a cautionary stance regarding the game's ability to retain player interest over time. Overall, the game presents a mixed bag of replay value, with both commendable features and notable drawbacks that players should consider.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Mario & Luigi: Brothership is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and nostalgic appeal. CGMagazine describes it as a "fantastic new adventure" that successfully modernizes the series while retaining its core essence. Similarly, GamesHub highlights the game's "strong themes" and "dynamic combat," emphasizing that it lives up to the franchise's legacy. Critics like Shacknews and My Nintendo News echo this sentiment, noting the heartfelt story and captivating narrative that make the game enjoyable for both new and returning fans. The overall presentation, including vibrant visuals and a well-crafted battle system, has garnered significant acclaim, reinforcing the game's position as a worthy addition to the Mario RPG lineup. However, the reviews are not without their criticisms. Some reviewers pointed out pacing issues and design choices that can lead to slower gameplay, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and PlaySense. COGconnected mentioned frustrating puzzles and loading issues, while God is a Geek highlighted problems with over-explaining and repetition. Critics like TheSixthAxis expressed concerns regarding visual design and replay value, suggesting that while the gameplay mechanics are solid, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. These criticisms indicate that while the game excels in many aspects, it also has its share of shortcomings that may impact the overall experience for some players. Despite the noted flaws, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly favorable, with many considering Mario & Luigi: Brothership a standout title in the series. Reviewers like Multiplayer.it and Nintendojo emphasized its engaging combat and captivating experience, reinforcing the idea that it is a must-play for fans of the franchise. The game is generally viewed as a successful revival of a beloved series, with Twinfinite stating it offers "constant entertainment" and Vooks recommending it for both newcomers and long-term fans. Overall, while there are some critiques regarding pacing and design, the majority of reviewers agree that Mario & Luigi: Brothership delivers a delightful and engaging adventure that is well worth experiencing.

TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership has received mostly positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and nostalgic appeal, marking it as a worthy addition to the series. Critics praise its modernized approach and captivating narrative, though some note pacing issues, frustrating puzzles, and design flaws. Overall, it’s seen as a successful revival that offers "constant entertainment" and is recommended for both new and returning fans, despite some shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

146 reviews found

100

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

Dec 19, 2024

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

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is praised as a sensational RPG that builds on classic mechanics while introducing new elements, providing a captivating experience that keeps players engaged throughout its lengthy playtime.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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