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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 a critically acclaimed title praised for its engaging story, diverse characters, and sharp humor, creating a whimsical adventure that resonates with players. However, some critiques point out pacing issues and a basic plot structure. Despite these flaws, the game shines with memorable character development and a unique blend of lightheartedness and deeper themes, solidifying its status as a standout in the Mario franchise.

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 overall sentiment regarding the story of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative, diverse cast of characters, and clever writing. Reviewers like App Trigger and But Why Tho? highlight the game's "ridiculously diverse cast" and "fleshed-out story" that draws players into its whimsical world. Critics such as Eurogamer Poland and Nintendojo commend the humor and depth of character development, noting the light-hearted atmosphere that complements the adventure. The unique gameplay segments, including those featuring Princess Peach, are often described as "masterfully told" (App Trigger) and add a creative twist to the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Digital Trends and GGRecon, emphasize the memorable characters and the comedic elements that make the game one of Nintendo's standout titles. However, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks in the storytelling. For instance, Jeuxvideo.com and Twinfinite mention pacing issues and repetitive elements, such as excessive backtracking and predictable narrative beats that can detract from the overall experience. While the dialogue is generally praised for its humor, ComicBook and Comicbook.com note that it can sometimes drag, leading to moments where the pacing feels off. Additionally, COGconnected describes the overall plot as "pretty basic," suggesting that while the execution is strong, the foundational story may not be groundbreaking. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a charming and engaging narrative that captivates players from start to finish. The combination of humor, well-developed characters, and unique storytelling elements creates a delightful experience that resonates with both new and returning players. Critics like GamingTrend and Shacknews laud the game's ability to blend darker themes with the lighthearted Mario universe, reinforcing the notion that the story, while simple in premise, is executed with creativity and flair. Ultimately, the majority of reviewers agree that the game successfully delivers a memorable and enjoyable adventure, making it a worthy addition to the Mario franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door impresses with its engaging turn-based combat, strategic depth, and exploration, earning praise for features like a fast travel system and unique partner abilities. Critics appreciate its nostalgic charm and RPG mechanics, but some highlight issues with slow combat, repetitiveness, and lack of modern features. Despite these drawbacks, the game delivers a fun experience that resonates with both new and returning fans, blending exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving effectively.

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, strategic depth, and exploration elements. Reviewers like App Trigger highlight the introduction of new features such as a fast travel system and a partner ring for quick sidekick switching, which enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics like But Why Tho? and Cubed3 commend the RPG mechanics, including unique character abilities and badge systems that allow for customization and strategic upgrades. The variety of partners with distinct abilities adds further depth to both combat and exploration, as noted by ComicBook and Gfinity. Overall, the gameplay is described as fun and engaging, with many critics praising the blend of traditional RPG elements with innovative mechanics that keep the experience fresh. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as several critics point out significant drawbacks. Areajugones and IGN Portugal express concerns about the combat system being slow and lacking depth, with some encounters becoming tedious and repetitive over time. Critics like Dot Esports and GameSpew note that while the turn-based system is enjoyable, it can feel monotonous, especially in certain chapters. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Jeuxvideo.com and Digital Trends, mention issues with backtracking and a lack of modern features that could enhance the gameplay experience. This sentiment is echoed by several others who feel that while the core mechanics are solid, they could benefit from more variety and engagement. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a robust and enjoyable gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers appreciate the game's charm, strategic elements, and the nostalgic feel of its turn-based combat system, as emphasized by TechRadar Gaming and Shacknews. While there are valid concerns regarding repetitiveness and pacing, the innovative mechanics and engaging RPG elements seem to outweigh these issues for most players. Critics like Nintenduo and Vooks encapsulate the sentiment that the game remains a delightful blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving that resonates well with both new and returning fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remastered for Nintendo Switch dazzles with enhanced graphics and a vibrant art style, earning rave reviews for its modern visual appeal. Critics love the charming paper-craft aesthetic and refined character designs, though some point out frame rate drops and minor artistic flaws. Overall, it’s a visually stunning tribute that resonates with both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike, solidifying its status in the gaming community.

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 graphics and visual design of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding the enhancements made in the Nintendo Switch remaster. Reviewers such as App Trigger and Areajugones highlighted the refined visuals and character designs, noting that the remake brings the game in line with modern standards. Critics like COGconnected and Gfinity praised the vibrant character models and improved lighting effects, which contribute to an overall visually appealing experience. The game's unique paper-craft aesthetic has been celebrated by many, with Digital Trends and GGRecon emphasizing the clever use of this style to create engaging environments. Overall, the remaster has been described as visually stunning, with many critics asserting that it stands out even against more recent Nintendo titles. Despite the largely favorable reviews, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks. But Why Tho? mentioned that while the visuals are colorful and cute, they do not quite match the quality of the latest Nintendo offerings. Additionally, Multiplayer.it and SpazioGames noted that the frame rate has been reduced to 30fps, which could impact gameplay experience for some players. Dot Esports also raised concerns about potential perspective issues caused by the '2D in 3D' style, suggesting that the artistic direction, while generally praised, might not be flawless. These critiques indicate that while the visual upgrades are significant, there are areas where the remaster could have been improved further. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Nintendo Switch successfully enhances the original's graphics and visual design, earning it a strong reputation in the gaming community. Most reviewers, including those from ComicBook and TechRadar Gaming, emphasized the game's ability to capture the charm of the original while making it visually appealing to a modern audience. The remaster is seen as a faithful tribute to the beloved classic, with improvements that resonate well with both nostalgic fans and new players alike. The combination of vibrant colors, detailed environments, and a cohesive art style has left a positive impression, solidifying the game's status as a visually captivating experience.

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 cues. The option to toggle between remixed and original tracks delights both newcomers and nostalgic fans. However, some criticize the absence of voice acting and mixed quality of certain updated tracks, suggesting not all changes hit the mark. Overall, the audio enhancements significantly boost the game's charm and engagement, despite a few 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 opinions of various critics on the sound design and music of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door reveal a largely positive reception regarding the game's auditory elements. Many reviewers, such as Areajugones and IGN Portugal, praise the captivating soundtrack, which is described as a strong point that enhances the immersive atmosphere of the game. Critics like But Why Tho? and Cubed3 highlight the newly created soundtrack as exceptional, with the option to switch to the original soundtrack appealing to both new players and nostalgic fans. The addition of unique battle themes for each chapter, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and GGRecon, adds variety and energy to the gameplay experience. Additionally, COGconnected emphasizes the meticulous sound design that includes character-specific sound bites and improved audio cues, further enriching the overall experience. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding certain aspects of the sound design and music. App Trigger points out the absence of voice acting, which could have enhanced immersion and reduced text-heavy moments. Meanwhile, Nintendojo and GamingTrend express mixed feelings about the updated soundtrack, with some tracks being perceived as inferior to the original. Player 2 also notes that while there are new sound bites, the overall sound design remains largely unchanged from the original release, suggesting that not all updates were universally embraced. This sentiment is echoed by a few others who feel that while the remixed soundtrack is enjoyable, it may not always match the impact of the original compositions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door significantly enhance the gameplay experience, with many praising the remixed soundtrack and the option to toggle between new and original music. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Vandal commend the layers of instrumentation and quality of life improvements that accompany the audio updates. While there are some reservations regarding the lack of voice acting and the mixed quality of certain tracks, the majority of reviewers agree that the improvements to sound design and music contribute positively to the game's charm and engagement, making it a noteworthy aspect of the remake.

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 Switch impresses with stable 30 FPS, improved visuals, and quality-of-life enhancements, earning praise from critics. However, the downgrade from 60 FPS, long load times, and missing modern features like text acceleration have drawn some criticism. Despite these issues, the remaster is deemed enjoyable, balancing nostalgia with smoother gameplay for both newcomers and fans.

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and ComicBook, praised the game for its stable performance, achieving a consistent 30 frames per second (FPS) without significant lagging or glitches. Critics like GameOver.gr highlighted technical upgrades that enhance the overall experience, including faster loading times and improved visuals that contribute to a polished remaster. Quality-of-life improvements, such as new warp pipes and streamlined saving, were noted by Checkpoint Gaming and others, enhancing the gameplay experience without compromising the game's core mechanics. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the technical performance on the Switch. Several reviewers, including Digital Trends and Cubed3, pointed out the disappointment stemming from the downgrade from the original's 60 FPS to 30 FPS, which some purists may find frustrating. Additionally, Metro GameCentral mentioned long load times and partner AI issues that detract from the overall experience. Critics like PlaySense and Jeuxvideo.com expressed concerns about missing modern features like text acceleration and cutscene skipping, which could affect pacing and player engagement. While minor technical issues were acknowledged by Nintenduo and RPG Site, they did not overshadow the overall enjoyment of the game. The overall consensus among critics is that while the remaster of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Nintendo Switch has its drawbacks, particularly regarding frame rate and certain missing features, the improvements and stable performance ultimately make for an enjoyable experience. Many reviewers, including Vandal and TechRadar Gaming, noted that the enhanced visuals and quality-of-life updates help mitigate some of the frustrations associated with the technical limitations. Despite the mixed feelings about the frame rate and occasional technical hiccups, the game is seen as a successful remaster that retains the charm of the original while offering a smoother experience for both new players and returning fans.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Switch shines with enhanced replay value thanks to new features, rich content, and engaging storytelling, appealing to both newcomers and series fans. However, criticisms about repetitive gameplay, lack of fresh content for veterans, and the absence of a difficulty selector dampen the experience for some. Overall, it’s a nostalgic yet familiar journey that many will enjoy revisiting, but may not fully satisfy those seeking novelty.

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 overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is largely positive, with many critics praising the enhancements and additional content in the Nintendo Switch remaster. For instance, App Trigger highlights the new features and improvements that elevate the replay experience for both newcomers and returning players. Similarly, GGRecon notes the wealth of content available, such as enemy records, cooking recipes, and the Pit of 100 Trials, which significantly contribute to the game's replay value. Critics like Pure Nintendo and Nintenduo emphasize the game's depth, with numerous side quests and collectibles that keep players engaged, making it particularly appealing for completionists. The engaging story and charming characters, as noted by Player 2, further enhance the game's allure, ensuring that players find enjoyment in revisiting the adventure. However, several critics point out notable drawbacks that may impact the replay value for some players. Checkpoint Gaming mentions a missed opportunity for additional content for those familiar with the original game, while Digital Trends states that the minor additions in the remake do not significantly enhance the original content. Critics like IGN Portugal and Jeuxvideo.com express concerns about repetitive gameplay elements and the potential monotony that could deter players from wanting to replay the game. Furthermore, SpazioGames points out the lack of a difficulty selector, which could limit replayability for those seeking a more challenging experience. These criticisms suggest that while the game offers a delightful experience, certain aspects may not encourage repeated playthroughs for all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a rich and enjoyable experience with considerable replay value, particularly for fans of the series and newcomers alike. The engaging gameplay, memorable characters, and strategic depth, as highlighted by critics like Nintendojo and TechRadar Gaming, create a compelling case for revisiting the game. However, the concerns regarding repetitive elements and the absence of new content for returning players, as noted by GameOver.gr and NME, indicate that while the game remains a classic, it may not fully satisfy those looking for a fresh experience. Ultimately, the remaster strikes a balance between nostalgia and new features, making it a worthwhile endeavor for many players.

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 predominantly positive, with many critics praising its remastering for the Nintendo Switch. Reviewers like App Trigger and GGRecon highlight the game as a "faithful and beautifully done remaster," emphasizing its near-perfect execution and the preservation of what made the original a beloved classic. Critics also commend the game's engaging narrative, charming visuals, and enhanced audio, with Checkpoint Gaming noting the various quality-of-life improvements that elevate the experience. The humor, creativity in level design, and memorable characters are recurrent themes, with Digital Trends and Shacknews celebrating the game's witty dialogue and imaginative storytelling. However, some criticisms do arise, particularly concerning the combat mechanics and pacing. Several reviewers, including IGN Portugal and Dot Esports, point out that the gameplay can feel shallow and repetitive, with some combat dynamics lacking depth. Additionally, pacing issues related to excessive dialogue and forced backtracking have been mentioned by critics like Jeuxvideo.com and NME, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. While the remaster is celebrated for its visual enhancements, some critics, such as Games.cz, suggest that it could benefit from more modern design updates or additional content for returning players. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly favorable, with many considering Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door to be an essential addition to the Nintendo Switch library. Reviewers like COGconnected and Player 2 affirm its status as a masterpiece that resonates with both newcomers and long-time fans of the series. The remaster is frequently described as the definitive way to experience this classic, with the combination of nostalgia and modern enhancements creating a delightful and engaging RPG adventure. Overall, the game is recognized as a triumph in remastering, successfully capturing the charm and essence of the original while appealing to a new generation of players.

TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Nintendo Switch is a stunning remaster celebrated for its faithful execution, engaging narrative, and charming visuals. Critics laud its humor and creativity, making it a must-have for fans and newcomers alike. However, some highlight shallow combat and pacing issues due to excessive dialogue and backtracking. Overall, it's deemed a triumph in remastering, blending nostalgia with modern enhancements for an engaging RPG experience.

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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