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77

MONSTER

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Mario & Luigi: Brothership

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

EXPAND ALL

75

TL;DR

Mixed reactions: While Mario & Luigi: Brothership shines with heartwarming themes, quirky humor, and nostalgic charm, its narrative falters with repetition, shallow plotlines, and a lack of originality. Though praised for engaging mechanics and character dynamics, it falls short of the series' storytelling depth, leaving fans split between nostalgia and disappointment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

75

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

3%

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

The story of Mario & Luigi: Brothership receives mixed praise for its thematic depth and charm, with several critics highlighting its heartfelt exploration of connection, friendship, and humor. Reviewers like IGN Adria and VGC commend the game’s focus on unity and brotherhood, noting its creative world-building and nostalgic nods to the Mario universe. The narrative’s emphasis on reuniting fragmented islands through the Uni-Tree or Conectárbol is praised for its emotional resonance, with The New York Times and GamingBolt pointing to moments of humor and touching character interactions. Additionally, Multiplayer.it and Nintendojo appreciate the well-written dialogues and charismatic characters, while Gamer.nl highlights the non-linear structure allowing players to explore islands at their own pace. The game’s lighthearted tone and quirky elements—such as punny names and island-specific themes—also earn praise from critics like TierraGamer and TrueGaming, who note its entertainment value despite its flaws. However, the narrative faces significant criticism for being underdeveloped, repetitive, or overly simplistic. GIGA and IGN describe the story as dull and secondary, with a lack of strong motivation beyond the initial setup, while Jeuxvideo.com criticizes its linear, unoriginal structure and prolonged runtime. Eurogamer Germany and Digital Trends highlight superficial themes and a sluggish pace, arguing that the plot’s social commentary on isolation and technology feels fragmented or disorganized. Wccftech and Checkpoint Gaming point to predictable twists and excessive dialogue, with the latter noting unnecessary characters that dilute the experience. Even Eurogamer acknowledges the narrative’s muddling elements, though it credits the game’s mechanics for salvaging enjoyment. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and WellPlayed also note that while the final act improves, the slow start and lack of depth in early chapters leave much to be desired. Overall, the consensus leans toward a balanced view: while Mario & Luigi: Brothership is praised for its charm, humor, and thematic focus on connection, it struggles with narrative coherence, pacing, and originality. VGC and Gamer.nl acknowledge its heartfelt moments and creative world-building, but many critics, including IGN and Jeuxvideo.com, feel the story fails to match the depth of earlier Mario RPGs. Despite these shortcomings, the game’s engaging mechanics, character dynamics, and nostalgic appeal—highlighted by Eurogamer and Nintendojo—ensure it remains a memorable entry for fans. The mixed reception reflects a divide between those who prioritize gameplay and charm over narrative innovation and those who expect more substantial storytelling from the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Mixed reactions: While Mario & Luigi: Brothership shines with heartwarming themes, quirky humor, and nostalgic charm, its narrative falters with repetition, shallow plotlines, and a lack of originality. Though praised for engaging mechanics and character dynamics, it falls short of the series' storytelling depth, leaving fans split between nostalgia and disappointment.

83

TL;DR

Praised for innovative combat mechanics, creative teamwork systems, and nostalgic charm, Mario & Luigi: Brothership shines with strategic depth and engaging exploration—yet repetitive pacing, sluggish movement, and tedious minigames undermine its potential, making it a flawed but rewarding experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

83

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The gameplay of Mario & Luigi: Brothership is widely praised for its innovative mechanics, strategic depth, and nostalgic yet fresh take on turn-based RPGs. Critics highlight the introduction of Battle Plugs, which add layers of strategy to combat by allowing players to customize and upgrade abilities mid-battle, as noted by IGN and WellPlayed. The Bros. Moves and Luigi Logic systems are frequently lauded for enhancing teamwork and creativity, with IGN praising their “creative mechanics” and VGC commending the dynamic interplay between Mario and Luigi. Exploration is also celebrated for its variety, with Nintendo Life noting the “engaging exploration” and varied island designs, while GamingBolt highlights the “variety and enjoyment” in level design. The game’s combat system, featuring timing-based actions and QTEs, is seen as a standout element, with Pocket Tactics calling it “varied” and Eurogamer appreciating its “creativity and charm.” These elements collectively create a gameplay experience that feels both familiar to long-time fans and innovative for newcomers. However, several critics point to recurring issues that detract from the overall experience. Repetition in combat and exploration is a common criticism, with Digital Trends noting that “repetitive combat mechanics” and an overreliance on minigames dilute the RPG elements. Jeuxvideo.com and IGN highlight the tedious exploration caused by sluggish movement systems like the navisthme, while Hobby Consolas and GIGA mention that early-game simplicity and repetitive island revisits can feel underwhelming. The pacing of progression is also questioned, with Power Unlimited pointing out “inconsistent pacing” and RPG Site criticizing the “excessive length” and “strange travel mechanic.” Additionally, some mechanics like Battle Plug recharging (Pocket Tactics) or mandatory time-wasting trips (Jeuxvideo.com) are seen as cumbersome. While these issues don’t overshadow the game’s strengths, they create friction in an otherwise engaging experience. Despite these criticisms, the majority of critics agree that Mario & Luigi: Brothership delivers a strong gameplay experience that balances innovation with tradition. IGN and WellPlayed emphasize its “strategic depth” and “satisfying battles,” while Nintendo Life and VGC praise its “cooperative mechanics” and “varied challenges.” Even reviewers who noted flaws, like GamingBolt and Pocket Tactics, acknowledge the game’s rewarding progression systems and creative design. The consensus is that while the game isn’t without its pacing and repetition issues, its inventive combat, nostalgic charm, and emphasis on teamwork make it a standout entry in the series. As IGN Brasil notes, the “variety of side missions” and “large maps” enhance replayability, reinforcing the idea that Brothership succeeds in delivering a gameplay experience that is both engaging and true to its roots.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Praised for innovative combat mechanics, creative teamwork systems, and nostalgic charm, Mario & Luigi: Brothership shines with strategic depth and engaging exploration—yet repetitive pacing, sluggish movement, and tedious minigames undermine its potential, making it a flawed but rewarding experience.

83

TL;DR

Critics praised Mario & Luigi: Brothership's vibrant, imaginative cel-shaded visuals and creative island themes, but technical flaws like static backgrounds, blocky character models, and frame-rate issues slightly tarnished the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

83

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The majority of critics praised Mario & Luigi: Brothership for its vibrant, imaginative, and cohesive visual design, highlighting its ability to blend nostalgia with creative experimentation. The game’s cel-shaded art style, reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, was frequently lauded for its colorful, expressive environments and dynamic animations. Critics like IGN Italia noted the “colorful, legible visuals” that effectively support the game’s whimsical tone, while GIGA praised the “vibrant, detailed cel-shaded aesthetic” and standout locations such as Künstlerdorf Schwankum. Nintendo Life emphasized the anime-inspired character animations and diverse island themes, calling the world of Concordia “visually diverse” and “creatively designed.” The game’s ability to translate 2D sprite aesthetics into 3D, as noted by Stevivor, was seen as a success, with Pocket Tactics highlighting the “lifelike cloud animations” and dynamic camera angles. Many reviewers, including Eurogamer and Vandal, celebrated the game’s thematic creativity, such as the electrical appliance-inspired designs and pun-filled environments, which added charm and uniqueness to the experience. Despite these strengths, several critics pointed out technical and design limitations that slightly detracted from the visual experience. TrueGaming noted “limited character details” and “static backgrounds,” while Metro GameCentral criticized “poor texture work” and a “shaky frame rate.” TheSixthAxis mentioned lower texture quality on TV compared to handheld play, and IGN pointed out “blocky character models” that clashed with the Mushroom Kingdom’s aesthetic. Checkpoint Gaming observed that the electrical theme made characters less distinguishable, while SpazioGames criticized generic enemy designs resembling low-budget mobile games. Technical issues like frame rate drops (MGG, Eurogamer Portugal) and repetitive level design (Meristation) were also mentioned, though these were often framed as minor drawbacks rather than major flaws. Some critics, like LevelUp, noted that the “convoluted theming” occasionally undermined the game’s visual cohesion. Overall, the consensus among reviewers was overwhelmingly positive, with most agreeing that Mario & Luigi: Brothership’s graphics and visual design were a standout feature. While technical imperfections and occasional design choices sparked debate, the game’s vibrant art style, creative island themes, and expressive animations resonated strongly with critics. IGN Italia called the visuals “effective” for the game’s tone, while Gameliner described Concordia as “visually stunning,” and VGC praised its “strikingly beautiful” and cohesive design across diverse islands. Even critics who pointed out flaws acknowledged that the game’s charm and creativity outweighed its shortcomings. As Nintendo Life noted, the art direction “enhances the sense of exploration,” cementing Brothership as a visually engaging entry in the Mario series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praised Mario & Luigi: Brothership's vibrant, imaginative cel-shaded visuals and creative island themes, but technical flaws like static backgrounds, blocky character models, and frame-rate issues slightly tarnished the experience.

83

TL;DR

Critics raved about Mario & Luigi: Brothership's vibrant, thematic soundtrack that immersive players in each island’s unique vibe, with standout jazz battle tracks, nostalgic yet fresh melodies, and Hideki Sakamoto’s catchy, emotionally resonant work—though some noted minor issues like repetitive themes and forgettable moments.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

83

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The sound design and music of Mario & Luigi: Brothership received widespread acclaim from reviewers, with many highlighting its vibrant, thematic compositions and emotional resonance. Critics consistently praised the soundtrack’s ability to adapt to each island’s unique atmosphere, creating a sense of immersion. Atomix emphasized the “varied and memorable compositions” that complemented the game’s tone, while CGMagazine noted the “banging soundtrack” with genres tailored to each location, such as the funky jazz battle themes. Eurogamer Portugal and Gameliner both celebrated the “catchy, thematic compositions” and standout tracks like the Shipshape Island music, which enhanced the game’s whimsical and adventurous spirit. The work of composer Hideki Sakamoto was frequently lauded, with LevelUp and MGG noting his ability to balance the series’ humor and tone through “excellent” and “catchy” melodies. Additionally, Guardian praised the nautical soundtrack’s upbeat energy, featuring horns and sea-shanty accordions that amplified the game’s adventurous feel. These elements collectively created a soundscape that felt both nostalgic and fresh, reinforcing the game’s charm. While the majority of reviews were positive, some critics pointed to minor shortcomings. GRYOnline.pl noted a lack of variety in battle themes, with most fights using similar music, and expressed disappointment over the absence of Yoko Shimomura’s contributions. IGN described the soundtrack as “solid but forgettable,” lacking the iconic tunes typical of Mario RPGs, while IGN Italia called the sound effects “competent but unremarkable.” Nintenduo criticized the overall soundtrack for falling short of previous games’ standards, citing less impactful sound effects and ambient audio. Shacknews also mentioned “odd sound mixing” during combat, which occasionally disrupted the experience. TrueGaming noted the reliance on traditional sound effects over voice acting, though this was framed more as a stylistic choice than a flaw. These critiques, while present, were generally overshadowed by the普遍 praise for the music’s creativity and atmosphere. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the soundtrack and sound design regarded as a standout aspect of Mario & Luigi: Brothership. While a few reviewers pointed to minor issues—such as repetitive battle themes or less innovative sound effects—the majority emphasized its ability to enhance the game’s lighthearted, whimsical tone. Critics like Atomix, CGMagazine, and Guardian highlighted how the music elevated the experience, while LevelUp and Twinfinite praised its emotional depth and narrative support. Even those with reservations acknowledged the soundtrack’s strengths, such as GRYOnline.pl’s acknowledgment of its “catchy” themes despite the lack of variety. The collective sentiment underscores that Brothership’s sound design and music successfully captured the spirit of the Mario universe while adding a fresh, engaging identity to the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics raved about Mario & Luigi: Brothership's vibrant, thematic soundtrack that immersive players in each island’s unique vibe, with standout jazz battle tracks, nostalgic yet fresh melodies, and Hideki Sakamoto’s catchy, emotionally resonant work—though some noted minor issues like repetitive themes and forgettable moments.

70

TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership’s voice acting dazzles with Kevin Afghani’s energetic, Martenet-esque performances for the brothers and whimsical "gibberish" cutscenes that nail nostalgia, but secondary characters falter with minimal dialogue and lackluster delivery, creating a mixed bag of charm and uneven execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

70

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Mario & Luigi: Brothership receives praise for its charm and consistency, particularly highlighting the performances of key characters like Mario and Luigi. Critics such as LevelUp commend Kevin Afghani’s portrayal of the brothers, noting his energetic and authentic delivery that closely mirrors Charles Martinet’s iconic style, adding depth and humor to their interactions. Similarly, Multiplayer.it appreciates the “gibberish” voice acting in cutscenes, framing it as a nostalgic and endearing element that enhances the game’s whimsical tone. Nintenderos also emphasizes the comedic value of Mario and Luigi’s voices, which contribute to the game’s lighthearted atmosphere. Additionally, God is a Geek points out the consistent and explanatory dialogue from the protagonists, suggesting that even with limited lines, the voice work maintains a cohesive and engaging presence throughout the game. However, several critics highlight shortcomings, particularly in the treatment of secondary characters and the overall lack of vocal variety. Guardian criticizes the “half-baked” and humorless dialogue for the Concordians, arguing that their absence of voice work undermines the series’ potential for lively interactions. TrueGaming notes the minimal use of full vocal performances, with characters relying on name calls and basic sounds rather than substantial dialogue, which some may find limiting. Nintenduo acknowledges Kevin Afghani’s competent performance as Mario but suggests it lacks the revolutionary impact expected from a long-standing franchise. These critiques point to a broader issue of uneven voice acting quality, where primary characters shine while others fall short, creating a mixed experience for players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers leans toward appreciation for the game’s nostalgic and stylistic approach to voice acting. While some argue that the minimal dialogue and lack of full vocal performances harken back to classic Mario traditions, others see it as a deliberate choice that aligns with the series’ charm. The praise for Afghani’s work and the whimsical gibberish in cutscenes suggests that many view the voice acting as a fitting, if restrained, addition to the game’s humor and character. Though not without flaws, the reviews collectively indicate that Brothership prioritizes style and consistency over elaborate vocal performances, resulting in an experience that resonates with fans of the franchise while leaving room for improvement in areas like character depth.

TL;DR

voice acting

Mario & Luigi: Brothership’s voice acting dazzles with Kevin Afghani’s energetic, Martenet-esque performances for the brothers and whimsical "gibberish" cutscenes that nail nostalgia, but secondary characters falter with minimal dialogue and lackluster delivery, creating a mixed bag of charm and uneven execution.

69

TL;DR

Brothership shines with stable, polished gameplay on Switch but struggles with frame drops, loading hiccups, and clunky mechanics, proving the aging hardware can’t fully keep up—yet its charm keeps flaws from derailing the fun.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

69

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The technical performance of Mario & Luigi: Brothership on the Nintendo Switch is generally praised for its stability and polish despite some hardware limitations. Critics like Gameliner noted that early preview issues were resolved, resulting in a smooth and stable experience without major hiccups. Nintendo Life and Nintenderos highlighted the game’s seamless gameplay, with minimal glitches and responsive controls. Pocket Tactics commended its ability to avoid typical technical pitfalls for a seven-year-old console, while Stevivor emphasized its smooth performance in both handheld and docked modes. Additionally, GIGA and Nintendo Insider reported consistent 30 FPS with rare micro-stutters, underscoring the game’s overall reliability despite the Switch’s aging hardware. However, several critics pointed to persistent technical shortcomings that detract from the experience. Digital Trends and IGN criticized frame rate drops and stuttering during complex scenes, suggesting the Switch struggles to handle the game’s demands. COGconnected, Gameblog.fr, and GRYOnline.pl highlighted frequent loading screens, which disrupted gameplay flow, while Eurogamer Portugal and RPG Site noted unstable frame rates and inconsistent fluidity. IGN Benelux and Jeuxvideo.com cited shaky frame rates affecting combat timing and awkward menu navigation, respectively. Issues like clipping, stuttering, and "invisible walls" were mentioned by Nintenduo and Siliconera, though many deemed these minor. Twinfinite and Vandal also noted unskippable animations and occasional frame drops, which, while not severe, added to the frustration. The overall consensus among critics is that Brothership delivers a technically sound experience on the Switch, albeit with notable trade-offs. While most agree that performance issues like loading times and frame rate inconsistencies are present, they are largely considered manageable or overshadowed by the game’s charm and mechanics. Gameliner and Nintendo Life emphasized the polished final product, whereas IGN and RPG Site expressed disappointment in the lack of optimization for a $60 title. The Switch’s hardware limitations were a recurring theme, with some critics like Digital Trends suggesting the game might have benefited from newer systems. Despite mixed feedback, the majority of reviewers acknowledged that technical flaws did not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment, balancing praise for stability with critiques of minor but persistent issues.

TL;DR

technical performance

Brothership shines with stable, polished gameplay on Switch but struggles with frame drops, loading hiccups, and clunky mechanics, proving the aging hardware can’t fully keep up—yet its charm keeps flaws from derailing the fun.

73

TL;DR

Mario & Luigi: Brothership delivers robust replayability through side quests, multiple endings, and exploration, but repetitive mechanics, bloated pacing, and underwhelming optional content undermine its long-term appeal, offering a mixed experience for completionists.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

73

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

2%

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

The majority of reviewers highlight Mario & Luigi: Brothership as offering a robust replay value through its emphasis on side quests, exploration, and varied mechanics. Critics like Atomix, Gameblog.fr, and Nintenduo praise the game’s multiple endings, revisitable islands, and progression systems that encourage players to revisit areas for hidden content, collectibles, and challenges. CGMagazine and GAMES.CH note that side missions, fishing minigames, and combat variety add layers of engagement, while Eurogamer Germany and Hobby Consolas emphasize the substantial playtime (30–40+ hours) and structured exploration that reward completionists. The game’s branching story paths, such as those mentioned by Shacknews, and unique mechanics like Brother Actions (as noted by Multiplayer.it) further enhance its appeal for multiple playthroughs. These elements collectively create a sense of discovery and incentive to explore the game’s world beyond the main narrative. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks that temper the game’s replayability. IGN and IGN Italia are particularly critical, citing repetitive gameplay, bloated runtime, and uneven pacing as major issues that make revisiting the game less appealing. Jeuxvideo.com and GIGA highlight frustrating design choices, such as backtracking and repetitive exploration, while Eurogamer Portugal and IGN Benelux note that side missions often lack meaningful rewards. God is a Geek and Power Unlimited also mention the game’s reliance on familiar mechanics and pacing issues, which can diminish long-term engagement. Additionally, COGconnected and Meristation observe that some optional content feels underwhelming or tedious, reducing the incentive to return for multiple playthroughs despite the game’s depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Mario & Luigi: Brothership strikes a balance between engaging replayability and structural flaws. While many praise its side quests, collectibles, and exploration (as highlighted by Nintendo Life, Vandal, and SpazioGames), others argue that repetition, slow pacing, and lack of post-game content limit its long-term appeal. The game’s strengths lie in its variety of mechanics and depth for completionists, but its weaknesses—such as the linear core story and repetitive design—prevent it from achieving high replayability. Critics like Twinfinite and Inverse acknowledge that the game is worth a second playthrough for fans of the series, though the experience may not be universally satisfying. Ultimately, the review landscape reflects a mixed but generally positive outlook, with replay value seen as moderate at best, dependent on player tolerance for its flaws.

TL;DR

replay value

Mario & Luigi: Brothership delivers robust replayability through side quests, multiple endings, and exploration, but repetitive mechanics, bloated pacing, and underwhelming optional content undermine its long-term appeal, offering a mixed experience for completionists.

Overall verdict

Overall Verdict

77

MONSTER

Star Icon

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

77

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The overall reception of Mario & Luigi: Brothership highlights its strengths in gameplay, charm, and creative design. Many critics praised its engaging combat systems, vibrant visuals, and nostalgic appeal, with GamingBolt calling it a "triumphant return" for the series and Nintendo Life hailing it as the "best entry" in the franchise. The game’s unique mechanics, such as the clavijas (a new tool for 3D exploration), were celebrated for adding freshness to the RPG formula, while its emotional storytelling and thematic focus on brotherhood resonated with reviewers like GamesRadar+ and Shacknews. Additionally, VGC and Areajugones highlighted its strong world-building and balance of creativity with challenge, positioning it as a standout title for both fans and newcomers. The game’s ability to blend humor, accessibility, and strategic depth earned it widespread acclaim, even if not universally perfect. However, several critics pointed out significant flaws that detracted from the experience. IGN and IGN Italia criticized the game for its repetitive gameplay, underdeveloped narrative, and technical issues, calling it a "missed opportunity" and a step back from previous entries. MGG and RPG Site noted pacing problems, tedious subplots, and an overly long runtime that felt overstuffed, while God is a Geek and Power Unlimited lamented over-explaining, repetitive mechanics, and uneven progression. These issues were compounded by early-game frustrations, such as slow pacing and clunky tutorials, which some reviewers found frustrating despite the game’s later improvements. While many acknowledged the game’s charm, these criticisms underscored a disconnect between its ambitious design and execution. Despite mixed reactions, the overall consensus among critics leans positive, with most recognizing Mario & Luigi: Brothership as a worthwhile and enjoyable adventure. While IGN and RPG Site were more critical, numerous outlets like GamingBolt, VGC, and Nintendo Life emphasized its strengths, calling it a "strong return" that successfully revitalized the series. The game’s ability to balance nostalgia with innovation, even with its flaws, earned it praise for appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers. Critics like Atomix and Areajugones highlighted its emotional depth and creative mechanics as standout features, while others, such as GamesHub and My Nintendo News, celebrated its "absolute delight" and "exceptional adventure." Though not without shortcomings, the game’s charm, gameplay, and heartfelt storytelling secured it a place as a recommended entry in the Mario & Luigi series.

TL;DR

Praise for gameplay, charm, clavijas, emotional storytelling; critics panned repetition, underdeveloped story, technical issues. Still hailed as a nostalgic revival with strong innovation despite flaws.

77

MONSTER

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Reviews

148 reviews found

100

The Enemy

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

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

A fresh entry in the Mario & Luigi series that maintains its signature humor, challenging battles, and dynamic storytelling while introducing unique mechanics tied to Elétria's electrical theme. It serves as a strong conclusion for the Switch era.

Read full review

Full review

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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Full review

95

Stevivor

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

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

A successful return for the Mario & Luigi series, blending nostalgic elements with innovative 3D mechanics, engaging storytelling, and a fresh take on the brothers' dynamic. Highly recommended for fans and newcomers alike.

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Full review

95

Areajugones

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

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

The game is praised as one of the best Nintendo Switch titles of 2024, with a compelling story, engaging gameplay, and abundant content that appeals to RPG fans. It balances creativity, challenge, and nostalgia effectively.

Read full review

Full review

93

Vandal

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

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

The review calls it one of the best Mario & Luigi games, a must-have for Switch, and a significant evolution in the series. It praises the innovation, depth, and dedication to the Super Mario universe.


90

LevelUp

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

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

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is hailed as the most ambitious entry in the series, successfully reviving the franchise with a compelling story, innovative gameplay, and nostalgic charm. It balances creativity with nostalgia, delivering a satisfying experience that exceeds expectations.

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Full review

90

Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

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

The game is praised as a strong return for the franchise, combining beloved elements with improved graphics, characters, and addictive turn-based combat.

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Full review

90

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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Full review

90

Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Nov 4, 2024

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

The review concludes that Mario & Luigi: Brothership is the best entry in the series, praised for its combat, worldbuilding, creativity, and emotional storytelling. It's deemed a must-play with innovative mechanics and a richly designed world.

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Full review

90

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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Full review
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