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Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Item: Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Trivia, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableMay 23, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperIntelligent Systems

Overview

What sleeps behind the door? Time passes, the pages turn… and a new chapter unfolds in an unfamiliar land! Get ready for a two-dimensional role-playing adventure for the ages as Mario returns to paper form to discover a mystery that sleeps behind an ancient, legendary portal called the Thousand-Year Door. The quest is long, the dangers many, and this time, Mario will have to make full use of his papery qualities just to survive.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is celebrated for its engaging narrative, diverse characters, and sharp humor, earning praise from critics as one of Nintendo's funniest games. While some point to a basic plot and pacing issues that can make the story drag, the consensus is that its charm and depth in character development make it a must-play in the Mario franchise, particularly for the Nintendo Switch.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who have praised its engaging narrative, diverse cast of characters, and clever writing. Reviewers like App Trigger highlighted the "ridiculously diverse cast" and the masterfully told segments featuring Princess Peach, while Areajugones emphasized the narrative's focus on the journey rather than just the end goal. Critics such as But Why Tho? and GGRecon noted the engaging and fleshed-out story, with well-developed characters that add depth to the game’s universe. The humor and charm of the dialogue were also frequently mentioned, with many critics, including Gfinity and Nintendojo, pointing out how the writing is both witty and irreverent, contributing to the game’s status as one of Nintendo's funniest offerings. However, not all reviews were unreservedly positive, as some critics pointed out certain drawbacks. COGconnected noted that while the dialogue and gameplay are preserved, the overall plot is considered "pretty basic," suggesting a lack of complexity. Additionally, both ComicBook and Jeuxvideo.com mentioned pacing issues, with excessive dialogue sometimes causing the story to drag. Critics like Twinfinite also observed that the narrative can feel mechanical and predictable at times, particularly in the first half of the game, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door features a well-crafted story that successfully blends humor with engaging gameplay. Most critics, including Eurogamer Poland and TechRadar Gaming, appreciated the light-hearted atmosphere and the surprising depth of the plot, especially in its character development. The game’s unique setting and imaginative narrative structures were also highlighted as strong points. Ultimately, the majority of critics agree that the game delivers a charming and enjoyable experience, making it a standout title in the Mario franchise and a worthy addition to the Nintendo Switch library.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door wins over critics with its engaging turn-based combat, strategic depth, and clever character abilities, enhanced by features like fast travel and a customizable badge system. However, some note the combat can feel repetitive and slow, with tedious backtracking and outdated design choices detracting from the fun. Overall, it’s a solid RPG experience that melds nostalgia with innovation, appealing to both newcomers and series veterans, despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its engaging turn-based combat system, strategic depth, and the incorporation of unique character abilities. Reviewers like App Trigger highlight the introduction of new features such as a fast travel system and partner ring, which enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics like Cubed3 and Gfinity commend the game's mix of RPG elements with clever level design and exploration mechanics, making it a fun and engaging experience. The badge system, which allows for character customization, is frequently praised, with critics like GamingTrend and TechRadar Gaming noting how it adds strategic depth to combat, making each encounter feel fresh and rewarding. However, not all feedback is positive. Some critics express concerns about the combat system's repetitiveness and lack of depth. Areajugones and IGN Portugal point out that while the turn-based combat is enjoyable, it can become slow and monotonous, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, critics like Dot Esports and GameSpew mention issues with tedious backtracking and some mini-games becoming tiresome over time. This sentiment is echoed by Jeuxvideo.com, which notes that the gameplay is hindered by certain outdated design choices that may not resonate with modern players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a solid and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of turn-based RPGs. While there are valid criticisms regarding repetitiveness and pacing, the majority of reviewers, including those from Digital Trends and Shacknews, agree that the game successfully combines traditional RPG mechanics with innovative features that keep players engaged. The game's charm, strategic elements, and the unique paper aesthetic contribute to a nostalgic yet fresh experience, making it a worthwhile title for both new players and long-time fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the stunning graphics and visual design of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remaster for Nintendo Switch, praising its vibrant character models and improved lighting. While the visuals enhance the game's charm, some note minor drawbacks like lower frame rates and perspective issues. Overall, the remaster is celebrated as a captivating upgrade that stands strong against modern titles, despite a few technical hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (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 Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers, including App Trigger and Areajugones, highlighted the enhancements made in the remaster for the Nintendo Switch, noting that the graphics have been significantly refined and visually appealing. Critics like COGconnected and Gfinity praised the vibrant character models and improved lighting effects, which contribute to a more immersive experience. The game's art direction, characterized by its clever paper-craft aesthetics and vibrant colors, was celebrated by multiple sources, including IGN Portugal and Digital Trends, who emphasized how these elements bring the game to life and enhance the overall experience. Despite the praise, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks. For instance, But Why Tho? noted that while the visuals are colorful and cute, they do not quite measure up to recent Nintendo titles. A few reviewers, such as Multiplayer.it and SpazioGames, mentioned that the remaster runs at a lower frame rate compared to the original, which could impact gameplay. Additionally, Dot Esports raised concerns about perspective issues arising from the '2D in 3D' style, indicating that while the visuals are impressive, they are not without flaws. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door features a visually captivating and well-executed remaster that successfully enhances the original game's charm while maintaining its essence. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and VG247 emphasized that the visual overhaul is not only impressive but also competitive with modern titles. Overall, the remaster's graphics and visual design have been well-received, with the majority of critics agreeing that it offers a delightful experience, despite some minor technical drawbacks.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise the sound design and music of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, highlighting its captivating soundtrack, unique battle themes, and improved audio quality. The option to switch between new and original soundtracks adds nostalgia. However, some criticize the lack of voice acting and express mixed feelings about certain updated tracks. Overall, the remaster enhances the game’s charm and storytelling, appealing to both new and returning players, despite some purist reservations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for the sound design and music of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door are predominantly positive, highlighting the game's captivating and varied soundtrack. Critics such as Areajugones and IGN Portugal praise the soundtrack for its charm and immersive atmosphere, respectively. The addition of unique battle themes for each chapter, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and GGRecon, enhances the gameplay experience and keeps players engaged. Critics like Cubed3 and Eurogamer Poland commend the exceptional remastered tracks that complement the gameplay, while the option to switch between the new and original soundtracks, mentioned by GameOver.gr and TechRadar Gaming, provides a nostalgic touch for long-time fans. The sound design also receives accolades, with COGconnected noting the rhythmic noise and perfectly crafted sounds that enhance actions and interactions within the game. However, there are some criticisms regarding the soundtrack and sound design. App Trigger points out the absence of voice acting, which could have added an extra layer of immersion to the game. Additionally, some critics, like GamingTrend and Nintendojo, express mixed feelings about the updated soundtrack, with the former mentioning that certain tracks overuse overdriven guitars and the latter stating that the new soundtrack is inferior to the original. Player 2 also notes that while there are updates to the soundtrack and new sound bites, the overall sound design remains largely unchanged from the original release. This sentiment suggests that while the remaster has made strides, it may not fully satisfy purists who prefer the original audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door successfully revitalizes its sound design and music, enhancing the overall experience for players. While some critiques exist regarding specific tracks and the lack of voice acting, the majority of reviewers appreciate the new arrangements and the ability to toggle between soundtracks. Critics like Vandal and SpazioGames emphasize the improvements in audio quality and the engaging nature of the remixed soundtrack, indicating that the enhancements contribute positively to the game's charm and storytelling. Thus, despite some reservations, the sound design and music are largely viewed as a strong point of the game, enriching the nostalgic experience for both new and returning players.

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Nintendo Switch impresses with stable 30 FPS, faster loading times, and quality-of-life upgrades, earning mostly positive reviews. However, some purists lament the drop from 60 FPS, occasional frame rate drops, and missing modern features like text acceleration. Overall, critics feel the enhancements outweigh the issues, making it a solid remaster that appeals to both new and returning players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Nintendo Switch has received a largely positive reception from critics. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and ComicBook, praised the game for its stable performance, with a locked 30 frames per second (FPS) and no significant lagging or glitches. Critics like GameOver.gr noted technical upgrades, including faster loading times and enhanced visuals, which contribute positively to the overall gaming experience. Additionally, quality-of-life improvements, such as new warp pipes and streamlined saving, have been highlighted by Checkpoint Gaming and RPG Site as beneficial enhancements that make gameplay smoother and more enjoyable. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out. A common concern is the downgrade from the original's 60 FPS to 30 FPS, which some, like Cubed3 and GGRecon, argue may disappoint purists who prefer the original's higher frame rate. Digital Trends and Metro GameCentral also mentioned occasional frame rate drops during crowded scenes and long loading times between screens, which can detract from the overall experience. Moreover, some critics, such as Jeuxvideo.com and PlaySense, expressed disappointment over the absence of modern features like text acceleration and certain animations, which could impact pacing and gameplay fluidity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Nintendo Switch has its share of technical issues, the improvements and stable performance largely outweigh the negatives. Most reviewers, including Nintenduo and Vandal, agree that the game runs smoothly at 30 FPS, and the quality-of-life enhancements help to streamline the experience. While there are some frustrations regarding frame rate and missing features, the general sentiment is that the remaster offers a solid experience that respects the original while making it accessible to a new audience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remastered for Nintendo Switch is praised for its replay value with new features like optional hints and battle retries, appealing to both newcomers and nostalgic fans. Critics commend its engaging story and strategic gameplay, but some point out repetitive elements and a lack of significant new content for veterans, which may limit replay appeal. While the consensus is mixed, the game’s charm and quality-of-life improvements keep it a must-play experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door highlight several positive aspects regarding its replay value, particularly in the context of its remastered version on the Nintendo Switch. Critics like App Trigger and GGRecon emphasize the enhancements made in the remaster, which include new features such as optional hints, unlockable galleries, and the ability to retry battles after a Game Over. These additions not only cater to new players but also provide returning fans with fresh incentives to revisit the game. Furthermore, the game is lauded for its engaging story, charming characters, and strategic gameplay mechanics, as noted by Player 2 and Nintendojo, which contribute to a compelling experience that can be enjoyed multiple times. Conversely, several reviewers express concerns about the game's replay value due to its repetitive elements and lack of significant new content for seasoned players. Critics like Digital Trends and IGN Portugal point out that while the remake offers some minor improvements, it fails to introduce substantial new content that would entice veterans of the original game. Additionally, some reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and NME, mention that the linearity and monotony of certain gameplay aspects, such as battles and backtracking, may deter players from wanting to replay the game. The absence of a difficulty selector is also noted by SpazioGames as a missed opportunity that could have enhanced replayability for those seeking a greater challenge. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans towards a positive outlook on the game's replay value. While many acknowledge the charm and engaging elements that make it worthwhile for both new and returning players, there is a shared sentiment that the lack of significant new content and the presence of repetitive gameplay could limit the experience for some. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Pure Nintendo highlight that despite these drawbacks, the game remains a must-play due to its engaging story and quality of life improvements, making it a title that can still captivate audiences even years after its original release.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its remaster on the Nintendo Switch as a faithful and beautifully executed update of a beloved classic. Reviewers like App Trigger and COGconnected highlight the game's near-perfect execution and essential status in the Nintendo Switch library, emphasizing the successful preservation of the original's charm, narrative depth, and engaging gameplay. Many critics, including Checkpoint Gaming and GGRecon, appreciate the quality of life improvements, enhanced graphics, and rearranged soundtrack that contribute to a more immersive experience. The game's humor, character writing, and inventive level design are also frequently mentioned as standout features, making it a must-play for both newcomers and returning fans. However, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings that may affect the experience for certain players. Issues such as pacing problems due to excessive dialogue and forced backtracking are mentioned by reviewers like ComicBook and Jeuxvideo.com, indicating that these elements might detract from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, some critics, including Dot Esports and IGN Portugal, expressed concerns regarding the shallow gameplay mechanics and combat dynamics, suggesting that these aspects could limit long-term engagement for players seeking deeper RPG experiences. While the game's visuals and storytelling are widely praised, the lack of additional content for returning players is a common critique, as noted by Gfinity and Checkpoint Gaming. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a highly recommended remaster that successfully captures the essence of the original while introducing modern enhancements. Most reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's charm, humor, and engaging RPG elements, with many considering it the definitive version of the classic. Critics like Cubed3 and TechRadar Gaming encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging that despite some minor drawbacks, the remaster remains a delightful and engaging experience for players of all ages. Overall, the game is celebrated as a well-crafted homage to its predecessor, making it a worthy addition to the Nintendo Switch library.

TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Nintendo Switch is a highly praised remaster that captures the charm of the original, boasting enhanced graphics, quality-of-life improvements, and engaging gameplay. Critics laud its humor and character writing, making it a must-play for both newcomers and fans. However, pacing issues, excessive dialogue, and shallow gameplay mechanics are noted drawbacks. Despite these, it’s regarded as a definitive version of a classic, solidifying its place in the Nintendo Switch library.

MONSTER

Reviews

149 reviews found

100

VG247

Nintendo Switch

May 24, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door is a richly-deserved, lovingly-crafted redo of a classic, a victory lap for a classic from generations past.

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100

Player 2

Nintendo Switch

May 21, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remains a masterpiece in 2024, with its endearing characters, immersive gameplay, and engaging story standing the test of time. Despite its dated presentation, it continues to be a must-play JRPG.

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100

GGRecon

Nintendo Switch

May 31, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Switch is considered the definitive version of the game, offering an amazing experience from start to finish. The game's epic story, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, enhanced music, and replay value make it a gem for RPG and Mario game enthusiasts.

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100

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

Sep 20, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Switch preserves the core of the original game with quality of life improvements, but suffers from some changes to the script and soundtrack. Despite this, it remains a highly enjoyable and memorable experience.

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Nintenduo

Nintendo Switch

May 21, 2024

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

Considered one of the best RPGs on the platform, appealing to both new and old players, successful combination of modern and traditional gameplay elements

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App Trigger

Nintendo Switch

Jun 13, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a faithful and beautifully done remaster that enhances the original game, making it a near perfect title and a must-play for fans of the series.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Nintendo Switch

May 21, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door for Nintendo Switch is praised for keeping everything loved about the original game, various quality of life improvements, improved graphics, and a rearranged soundtrack. It is considered the best version of this fan-favorite classic, although it lacks additional content for returning players.

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GamingTrend

Nintendo Switch

Jun 3, 2024

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

A well worth playing game that captures the essence of why fans fell in love with Paper Mario in the first place, despite some minor drawbacks.

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GameOver.gr

Nintendo Switch

Jun 3, 2024

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

A classic game that impresses players even two decades after its release, offering a delightful and engaging experience for both new and returning players.

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Gfinity

Nintendo Switch

May 21, 2024

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

The game is praised for its amazing visuals, fun combat, and sharp writing, with minor criticism about lack of new content for returning fans.

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