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Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle
Item: Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2017

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Puzzle and Logic, Turn-Based, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 29, 2017

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperUbisoft, Ubisoft Paris, Ubisoft Milan

Overview

This is the story of an unexpected encounter between Mario and the irreverent Rabbids. The Mushroom Kingdom has been torn apart by a mysterious vortex, transporting the Rabbids into the once-peaceful area, splintering this beloved land. To bring order back to the Kingdom, Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Yoshi team up with Rabbids heroes in a journey through four different worlds.

Elsewhere

7.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

62%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle are varied, with some positive aspects highlighted. GamePro Germany and Vooks praise the game for its creative and engaging plot, describing it as humorous and charming. They appreciate the unique crossover between Mario and Rabbids, which provides a surprising and entertaining tale. Additionally, Pocket Gamer UK finds the story setup to be bonkers but effective in marrying the two worlds of Rabbids and the Mushroom Kingdom, resulting in genuinely amusing scenarios. On the other hand, several critics express negative sentiments towards the story of the game. Slant Magazine criticizes the framing story as weak and rote, with childish banter and forced drama. Digital Trends and Areajugones find the story underwhelming and lacking in depth and originality, serving primarily as a vehicle to introduce gameplay mechanics rather than offering a compelling narrative. Game Over Online mentions the story as a weakness without providing specific details, indicating a lack of memorable or engaging elements in the game's plot. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed reception of the story in Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle. While some reviewers appreciate the humor, creativity, and charm in the crossover narrative, others criticize it for being simplistic, contrived, or lacking depth. The game's ability to blend the worlds of Mario and Rabbids in a quirky and light-hearted manner seems to resonate positively with some critics, such as Hobby Consolas and Impulsegamer. However, the overall sentiment suggests that while the story may not be a standout feature of the game, it effectively serves its purpose in setting the stage for the gameplay experience, as noted by Trusted Reviews.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are split on the story of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle. Some praise its creative and humorous crossover between Mario and Rabbids, while others find it lacking depth and originality. Overall, reviews range from positive for its charm to negative for its weak and contrived narrative. The story sets the stage for gameplay but may not be a standout feature according to critics.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle for its strategic depth, engaging tactical combat, and unique mechanics. Critics like LevelUp and Game Informer highlighted the strategic challenge offered by the turn-based combat on grid-based maps, allowing for creative and varied tactics with different mission types, boss battles, and interactive elements in the environment. The game was commended for its diverse characters, gradual introduction of new gameplay elements, and deep combat mechanics, providing players with a wide range of strategies and challenges. RPG elements, exploration, and character progression through skill trees and equipment upgrades were also mentioned positively by reviewers like Cubed3 and Post Arcade. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the gameplay of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle. Giant Bomb and Digital Trends mentioned that the gameplay could wear out its welcome towards the end due to a lack of variety and frustrating enemy design. Issues with locked-in commands, difficulty balancing, and lack of versus co-op mode were noted by reviewers like Gaming Age and GameOver.gr as areas for improvement. RPG Fan also highlighted control issues affecting precision and difficulty spikes as potential downsides to the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle. The game was widely praised for its deep and challenging turn-based tactical combat, strategic character abilities, engaging mechanics, and a balanced level of challenge. Critics appreciated the mix of humor and challenge, the accessibility of the gameplay while still offering depth and complexity, and the unique twists and strategic possibilities it brought to the tactical strategy genre. With its engaging experiences, diverse abilities, and engaging boss battles, Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle managed to captivate the majority of critics, making it a highly recommended title for fans of turn-based strategy games.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics loved Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle for its strategic depth, engaging combat, and diverse characters. Some mentioned gameplay drawbacks like lack of variety and difficulty balancing. Overall, the game was praised for its challenging tactical combat, character progression, and unique mechanics, making it a must-play for turn-based strategy fans.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle, highlighting its vibrant and charming aesthetic that seamlessly blends the worlds of Mario and Rabbids. GameCrate, from a positive standpoint, commended the game for its distinct visual design with traditional Mushroom Kingdom-style architecture. AusGamers also appreciated the gorgeous design of the game, particularly focusing on the Mushroom Kingdom and boss designs. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded noted the bright and vibrant visuals, with humor-filled cutscenes and restrained Rabbids, enhancing the overall experience. The game's colorful graphics, diverse environments, and engaging puzzles were also lauded by Vgames, further adding to the positive reception. On the flip side, some critics did mention minor technical imperfections and performance issues in their analysis of the game's Graphics and Visual Design. Cubed3 pointed out technical imperfections like running at 900p30 and occasional freezes, which slightly detracted from the overall experience. RPG Fan highlighted some blurry textures and framerate issues, albeit praising the vibrant and unique world design. New Game Network also mentioned navigation issues that detracted from the otherwise charming and visually appealing blend of Mario and Rabbids properties. Despite these minor flaws, the overall sentiment remains positive towards the game's visual presentation. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle. The game was widely praised for its vibrant and inviting melded world, colorful and detailed environments, and seamless integration of Mario and Rabbids elements. Critics like Game Over Online described it as one of the best-looking games on the Nintendo Switch, with authentic visuals that look gorgeous in both docked and portable mode. The charming visuals that mix Mario and Rabbids elements, as highlighted by InsideGamer.nl, further contributed to the game's appeal. Despite some minor technical issues, the majority of critics found the graphics to be superb, bringing the Mushroom Kingdom to life and creating a visually chaotic yet unique and fresh experience. In conclusion, Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle received high praise for its Graphics and Visual Design, solidifying its position as a visually captivating and engaging title on the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics overwhelmingly praised Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle for its vibrant and charming graphics that blend Mario and Rabbids worlds seamlessly. While some noted minor technical flaws like occasional freezes and navigation issues, the game's colorful visuals, diverse environments, and engaging puzzles received high acclaim. Overall, the game stands out as visually captivating and one of the best-looking titles on the Nintendo Switch, despite some minor imperfections.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Sound Design and Music of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle, highlighting various positive aspects. Grant Kirkhope's soundtrack was a standout feature, with critics like Game Rant, Game Over Online, and Vooks appreciating the engaging and nostalgic compositions that complemented the gameplay experience. The use of familiar Mario tunes mixed with new tracks added to the charm and personality of the game, as noted by critics such as Games.cz and NintendoWorldReport. Additionally, the sound design was lauded for enhancing immersion in battles and exploration, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the game, as mentioned by EGM and GamePro Germany. The music was described as bouncy, fun, and fitting, with a focus on mobility and strategic depth, as highlighted by Impulsegamer and Eurogamer Italy. While the general sentiment towards the Sound Design and Music of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle was overwhelmingly positive, some critics did point out a few negatives. CGMagazine mentioned that the powerful orchestral score, while matching the serious challenge of combat, may seem too serious for the game's absurd enemies. They also noted that the dopey Rabbid laughter, while adding to the silliness, could potentially clash with the serious tone of the music. Gaming Age highlighted a slight synchronization issue between characters and music in World 2, which could slightly detract from the overall experience. These minor criticisms aside, the negative feedback was minimal compared to the overall positive reception of the game's Sound Design and Music. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle. The majority of reviewers appreciated the exceptional musical score by Grant Kirkhope, the fitting soundtrack that complements the gameplay, and the overall charm and humor brought by the sound design. Critics like DarkStation and The Sydney Morning Herald praised the exceptional quality of the music and animation, with some even comparing certain boss fights to scenes from a Disney film. The delightful soundtrack, engaging music, and memorable melodies were highlighted as key strengths, making Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle a must-have title for Nintendo Switch owners. Overall, the positive reception from the critics solidifies the game's Sound Design and Music as a significant contributor to the overall enjoyment and success of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics overwhelmingly praised the Sound Design and Music of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle, with Grant Kirkhope's standout soundtrack receiving high acclaim for its engaging and nostalgic compositions. The blend of familiar Mario tunes with new tracks added charm and personality to the game, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. While some minor criticisms were noted, the positive reception far outweighed any negatives. Critics lauded the bouncy, fun, and fitting music that heightened immersion in battles and exploration. Overall, the exceptional quality of the music and sound design made Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle a must-have title for Nintendo Switch owners, with critics comparing certain boss fights to scenes from a Disney film.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

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TL;DR

voice acting

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Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

88%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Technical Performance of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle on the Nintendo Switch are varied. Some critics, like GamingTrend and Nintendo Life, praise the game for running smoothly with fluid movement and minor technical issues like occasional frame dips and visual blemishes. TrueGaming highlights the use of the Snowdrop engine by Ubisoft, which enhances the user interface design and thrilling boss battles. Additionally, Post Arcade and NintendoWorldReport mention only occasional frame rate hiccups and performance issues that do not severely impact the gameplay experience. On the downside, several critics point out technical flaws and performance issues on the Nintendo Switch. Cubed3, DarkStation, and FNintendo note occasional freezes, animation transitions, and glitches that affect the gameplay experience. The Jimquisition criticizes the inconsistent camera control during combat, which causes frustration and impacts the overall experience negatively. Vooks and VideoGamer mention stuttering, slowdowns, and camera problems that hinder the presentation and visibility in the game. Worth Playing highlights occasional freezes during fights and a lower frame rate of 30fps, which may disappoint players accustomed to higher frame rates in other games. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle on the Nintendo Switch offers a mix of positive and negative technical aspects. While some critics appreciate the smooth gameplay and thrilling boss battles, others criticize the occasional freezes, camera bugs, and performance issues that detract from the overall experience. Despite the technical flaws mentioned by critics like DarkStation and Vgames, the art direction and storytelling through CG cutscenes, as praised by TrueGaming, add to the game's appeal. The general sentiment is that while the game may have its technical shortcomings, it still manages to deliver an enjoyable experience for players on the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics have mixed opinions on the technical performance of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle on the Nintendo Switch. Some praise its smooth gameplay and thrilling boss battles, while others criticize occasional freezes, camera bugs, and performance issues. Despite flaws, the game's art direction and storytelling stand out. Overall, it offers an enjoyable experience despite its technical shortcomings.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Replay Value of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle are varied but generally positive. Many critics highlighted the game's positive aspects in terms of replayability. For example, critics like TrueGaming and Game Informer praised the substantial amount of content available for completionists, including additional multiplayer modes and challenging post-game missions. The game's hidden collectibles, challenges, customization options, and cooperative scenarios were also mentioned by critics like Vooks and Hobby Consolas as enhancing the replay value. The inclusion of unlockables, alternative modes, and the ability to replay older levels were noted by critics like TheSixthAxis and FNintendo as adding depth and variety to the gameplay experience. On the other hand, some critics raised concerns about the limitations and potential drawbacks of the game's replay value. Critics like LevelUp and Switch Player mentioned issues with progression, lack of replay value, and limited variety in team composition choices, which could impact the overall replayability for some players. The absence of competitive multiplayer, difficulty spikes, and character balance issues noted by Multiplayer.it were seen as missed opportunities that could have further enhanced the game's replay value. Additionally, the tedium that can set in after a while, as mentioned by Wccftech, could potentially deter players from revisiting the game for extended periods. Overall, the consensus among the critics suggests that Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle offers a solid amount of replay value through its diverse gameplay elements, hidden content, and additional challenges. While some critics highlighted specific shortcomings such as limited team composition choices or lack of competitive multiplayer, the majority of reviewers appreciated the game's depth, variety, and engaging mechanics that contribute to its overall replayability. The mix of battles, puzzles, collectibles, and cooperative modes provides players with ample opportunities to revisit the game and discover new content, ensuring an engaging and rewarding experience for those seeking to extend their playtime.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on the replay value of Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle, with many praising its diverse gameplay elements, hidden content, and additional challenges. Some critics highlighted limitations like lack of competitive multiplayer and team composition choices, which could affect overall replayability. Despite some drawbacks, the majority of reviewers found the game engaging and rewarding, offering ample opportunities for players to revisit and discover new content.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

92%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle for its successful blend of Mario and Rabbids elements, offering a unique and engaging experience for players. Critics like Areajugones and Eurogamer Italy highlighted the game's solid gameplay, good visuals, and enjoyable content, exceeding expectations and showcasing the talent behind the game's development. Additionally, Game Informer considered it their favorite Mario game in recent years, emphasizing how the collaboration between Nintendo and Ubisoft paid off. The game's vibrant graphics, delightful presentation, and charming characters, as mentioned by COGconnected, also contributed to its positive reception. On the downside, some critics pointed out certain flaws in Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle that prevented it from reaching perfection. Giant Bomb and Destructoid mentioned issues with gameplay variety, frustrating enemy design, and battles feeling repetitive or like going through the motions. Despite these drawbacks, the game was still considered Worth Playing, as Gameplanet noted, thanks to its wonderfully bizarre concept and fun gameplay. Additionally, some critics, such as Wired UK and Gamer.nl, highlighted minor criticisms like certain Rabbids' behaviors feeling less timeless, but these did not detract significantly from the overall positive reception of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority considering Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. Critics from various outlets, such as Nintendo Life, Multiplayer.it, and Game Over Online, highly recommended the game, praising its engaging gameplay, deep strategy, and successful fusion of the Mario and Rabbids universes. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics, overall excellence, and high replay value, as noted by IGN Spain and NintendoWorldReport, further solidify its position as a must-play for both genre fans and general gamers. Despite some minor flaws, the game's dynamic combat, beautiful visuals, and challenging yet accessible gameplay make it a unique and enjoyable experience, as highlighted by Hobby Consolas and Game Rant. In conclusion, Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle stands out as a surprising and triumphant collaboration that offers a fun, engaging, and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels.

TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praised Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle for its successful blend of Mario and Rabbids elements, solid gameplay, good visuals, and enjoyable content, making it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. Despite some flaws like repetitive battles and minor criticisms, the game's innovative mechanics, engaging gameplay, and charming characters make it a unique and must-play experience with high replay value for players of all skill levels.

MONSTER

Reviews

165 reviews found

100

Telegraph

Nintendo Switch

Aug 31, 2017

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

The game is praised for its unlikely mash-up, excellent strategy gameplay, accessibility, and likability. It has some areas of refinement and a definable spike in difficulty, but overall it is a delightful and enjoyable experience.

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AusGamers

Nintendo Switch

Sep 6, 2017

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

The game is described as a near-perfect gaming experience.

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ZTGD

Nintendo Switch

Sep 1, 2017

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

Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle is praised for feeling like a true Mario game, with attention to detail, love for the Mario universe, and a fresh take on the classic character, making it possibly the reviewer's favorite Mario game ever.

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Game Over Online

Nintendo Switch

Aug 30, 2017

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

The review highly recommends the game, stating that it is a must-own for any Switch owner and worth buying the console for. It praises the combination of the two franchises and the overall quality of the game.

Cheat Code Central

Nintendo Switch

Aug 29, 2017

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

The game is disarmingly charming, challenging, and creative, making it one of 2017's biggest surprises.

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

Aug 29, 2017

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

A fun and unique crossover game that combines Mario and Rabbids in a surprisingly well-executed way, providing a great deal of fun for fans of either franchise or those looking for something fun and unique

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Gamer.no

Nintendo Switch

Aug 28, 2017

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

Delightful, challenging, and courageous game that stands out in the Mario franchise, a surprising and triumphant collaboration between Nintendo and Ubisoft

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CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Aug 31, 2017

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

The game is described as a gorgeous adventure and an engrossing tactical romp that offers a solid challenge and unique combat quirks. The reviewer recommends it as a strategy game that players should not miss.

Pocket Gamer UK

Nintendo Switch

Aug 28, 2017

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

Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle is the best game to launch on Nintendo Switch since Zelda, and the best exclusive period. It offers strategic battles, stunning visuals, and genuinely hilarious dialogue and environment.

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Aug 28, 2017

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

Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is a must-play for Nintendo Switch owners, offering a unique and clever adventure with deep strategy gameplay, engaging story, fantastic soundtrack, and good replay value despite some technical performance issues.

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