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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 hailed for its captivating story, vibrant characters, and sharp humor, with critics praising its focus on the journey and meaningful character arcs, like that of Vivian. While some point out pacing issues and predictable elements, the overall narrative shines, blending lighthearted fun with deeper themes, solidifying its status as a beloved RPG classic despite minor flaws.

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 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, who commend its engaging narrative, diverse cast of characters, and clever writing. Reviewers like App Trigger highlight the game's "ridiculously diverse cast" and "masterfully told" segments, particularly noting the unique gameplay involving Princess Peach. Critics such as Areajugones and But Why Tho? emphasize the narrative's focus on the journey rather than just the end goal, while others, like Gfinity, appreciate the sharp writing and the inclusion of contemporary themes, such as Vivian's character development. The humor embedded in the dialogue is frequently mentioned, with many reviewers, including Eurogamer Poland and Nintendojo, praising the witty and irreverent tone that keeps players engaged throughout the adventure. Despite the largely favorable reviews, some critics pointed out weaknesses in the story's pacing and structure. For instance, ComicBook and Jeuxvideo.com noted that while the dialogue is humorous, it can sometimes drag due to excessive exposition, leading to moments where the pacing feels off. Additionally, Twinfinite mentioned that the narrative could feel mechanical and predictable at times, particularly in the first half, suggesting that some story beats might lack originality. COGconnected also pointed out that while some chapters shine, others, like the tournament arc, may not resonate as strongly, indicating a disparity in the quality of storytelling across different segments of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door presents a compelling and humorous narrative that stands out in the Mario franchise. Most reviewers, including GamingTrend and Shacknews, agree that the game successfully blends lighthearted elements with darker themes, creating a rich storytelling experience. The charm and creativity of the characters and settings contribute significantly to the game's appeal, making it one of Nintendo's most beloved titles. While there are minor criticisms regarding pacing and predictability, the majority of critics celebrate the story as a highlight of the game, affirming its status as a classic in the RPG genre.

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 and innovative features like fast travel and partner rings, earning praise for its strategic depth and exploration. However, critiques arise about slow combat pacing and repetitive gameplay elements, causing some to find it tedious. Overall, while not without flaws, the game remains a beloved RPG that successfully blends adventure, puzzles, and combat, appealing to both newcomers and series veterans.

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, highlighting its engaging turn-based combat system, strategic depth, and exploration elements. Reviewers like App Trigger and Cubed3 praised the introduction of new features, such as a fast travel system and partner ring, which enhance the gameplay experience. The combat mechanics, characterized by timed button presses and the use of badges for character customization, were noted by critics like ComicBook and TechRadar Gaming as providing a rewarding and strategic experience. Many reviewers, including GamingTrend and Gfinity, appreciated the blend of RPG mechanics with unique character abilities and the incorporation of puzzles, making the gameplay feel fresh and engaging. However, some critics pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay. Areajugones and IGN Portugal criticized the combat system for being slow and lacking depth, suggesting that it can become monotonous over time. Dot Esports echoed this sentiment, mentioning that the combat can feel tedious, especially in certain chapters. Additionally, several reviewers, such as GameSpew and Jeuxvideo.com, highlighted issues with backtracking and the repetitive nature of some gameplay elements, which detracted from the overall experience. Despite the fun and engaging aspects, these criticisms indicate that the gameplay may not be as polished as some players would hope. 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 criticisms regarding the pacing and depth of combat, the majority of reviewers, including Eurogamer Poland and Shacknews, found the game to be a charming and strategic adventure that successfully combines elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The positive feedback on the game's innovative features and mechanics suggests that it remains a beloved title in the RPG genre, appealing to both new players and long-time fans of the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remaster dazzles with enhanced graphics and vibrant designs, earning widespread acclaim for its stunning visuals and clever paper-craft aesthetics. Critics celebrate its modernized look, though some note drawbacks like a lower frame rate and occasional perspective issues. Overall, the remaster successfully revitalizes the game, delivering a captivating visual experience for newcomers and nostalgic fans alike.

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 praised the remaster for its enhanced graphics, which have significantly improved from the original release. Critics like App Trigger and Areajugones highlighted the refined visuals and creative level design, noting that the remaster brings the game in line with modern standards. The vibrant character designs and colorful visuals were frequently mentioned, with COGconnected and Gfinity emphasizing the game's stunning textures and lighting that enhance the paper-thin characters and memorable locations. The clever paper-craft aesthetics received acclaim, with critics such as Digital Trends and GGRecon noting the delightful art direction and attention to detail that make the game visually captivating. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks. A few reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and GamingTrend, noted that the remaster runs at a lower frame rate (30fps) compared to the original's 60fps, which could impact gameplay fluidity. Additionally, Dot Esports mentioned that the '2D in 3D' style sometimes leads to perspective issues, which could detract from the immersive experience. Player 2 also remarked that while the game retains its original aesthetic, it feels somewhat dated in presentation, suggesting that some aspects may not fully meet the expectations set by more recent titles. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has received a substantial visual upgrade that enhances its appeal while maintaining the charm of the original. Reviewers like TechRadar Gaming and Vooks noted that the remastered visuals can compete with modern games, showcasing a delightful pop-up storybook aesthetic. While minor issues such as frame rate and perspective challenges were acknowledged, they did not overshadow the overall positive reception. Critics agree that the remaster successfully revitalizes the game's graphics, making it a visually engaging experience for both new players and returning fans.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door dazzles with its captivating soundtrack and meticulous sound design, earning widespread acclaim for enhancing gameplay and atmosphere. Critics celebrate the option to toggle between the original and revamped scores, catering to nostalgia while introducing fresh tunes. However, some note the lack of voice acting and inconsistencies in the quality of new compositions, with certain tracks failing to match the originals. Overall, the sound design adds significant charm, solidifying its positive reception despite a few critiques.

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 sound design and music of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, with many praising the game's captivating and varied soundtrack. Reviewers like Areajugones and IGN Portugal highlight the soundtrack as a strong point, enhancing the immersive atmosphere and overall gameplay experience. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and Cubed3 commend the all-new rearranged soundtrack, noting the unique battle themes for each chapter and the exceptional tracks that complement the gameplay. The option to switch between the original and updated soundtracks is also frequently mentioned, with Eurogamer Poland and GameOver.gr appreciating this feature as it caters to both nostalgic players and those who enjoy the new compositions. Additionally, COGconnected emphasizes the meticulous sound design that accompanies character actions and enhances menu navigation, contributing to a more engaging experience. Despite the overall acclaim, some critiques arise regarding specific aspects of the sound design and music. App Trigger mentions a notable absence of voice acting, which could have further immersed players in the game’s narrative. Meanwhile, GamingTrend and Nintendojo express mixed feelings about the updated soundtrack, with some tracks being less impactful compared to the original, and concerns about the quality of the new compositions. Player 2 echoes this sentiment, noting that while there are new sound bites and updates, the sound design remains largely unchanged from the original release. This sentiment is further supported by critics who feel that certain tracks, such as those in Twilight Town, do not reach the same heights as their predecessors. The overall consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the sound design and music in Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. While there are some criticisms regarding the absence of voice acting and the mixed quality of the updated soundtrack, the majority of reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and Vandal, celebrate the remixed soundtrack for its enhanced instrumentation and quality improvements. The ability to toggle between the original and new soundtracks is widely appreciated, allowing players to enjoy both nostalgic and modern interpretations of the music. Ultimately, the sound design and music contribute significantly to the game’s charm and atmosphere, aligning with the positive sentiments expressed by the majority of critics.

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 30FPS, fast loading, and quality-of-life upgrades, but disappoints some purists due to a frame rate downgrade and occasional technical issues. Critics agree it modernizes the classic while retaining charm, making it a solid experience despite some flaws.

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 among critics. Many reviewers, including But Why Tho? and ComicBook, praised the game for its stable performance, with a locked frame rate of 30FPS that ensures a smooth gaming experience without significant lagging or glitches. Critics like GameOver.gr highlighted technical upgrades such as faster loading times and enhanced visuals, which contribute to a more polished remaster. Additionally, quality-of-life improvements, such as new warp pipes and streamlined saving, were noted by Checkpoint Gaming and RPG Site as beneficial enhancements that elevate the overall gameplay experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's technical performance. Several reviewers, including Digital Trends and Cubed3, pointed out that the downgrade from 60FPS to 30FPS may disappoint purists who prefer the original's higher frame rate. Issues such as occasional frame rate drops during crowded scenes were mentioned by Digital Trends, and Metro GameCentral noted long load times and partner AI problems that detract from the experience. Furthermore, some critics like PlaySense and Jeuxvideo.com highlighted the absence of modern features like text acceleration and save-anywhere functionality, which could impact pacing and convenience, especially in handheld mode. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a balanced view of the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch. While many praised the stable 30FPS and quality-of-life improvements, there is a shared acknowledgment of the drawbacks associated with the reduced frame rate and some lingering technical issues. Critics like GGRecon and SpazioGames noted that despite the lower frame rate, the game remains enjoyable and does not significantly hinder gameplay. The general sentiment suggests that while the remaster has its flaws, it successfully modernizes the classic title while maintaining its charm, making it a worthwhile experience for both new players and fans of the original.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remaster on Nintendo Switch impresses with enhancements like optional hints and battle retries, boosting replay value for newcomers. Critics praise its engaging content and strategic depth but note a lack of new material for veterans and some repetitiveness that could deter multiple playthroughs. Overall, it's still a charming and worthwhile experience, particularly for new players, despite some valid concerns.

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 opinions regarding the replay value of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door largely highlight its strengths, particularly in the context of the Nintendo Switch remaster. Critics such as App Trigger and GGRecon emphasize the enhancements made in this version, noting new features and improvements that elevate the overall experience for both new and returning players. The addition of optional hints, unlockable galleries, and the ability to retry battles after a Game Over, as pointed out by Checkpoint Gaming, adds layers of accessibility and engagement. Furthermore, the game offers a wealth of content for completionists, including side quests and collectibles, which Cubed3 and Pure Nintendo commend as significant factors contributing to replay value. The strategic depth provided by badge and partner choices, as noted by Nintendojo, also adds to the replayability, ensuring that players can experience the game in varied ways. However, several critics express concerns regarding the game's replay value, particularly for those familiar with the original. Digital Trends and GameOver.gr point out that the remaster lacks substantial new content for veteran players, which could diminish the incentive to revisit the game. The repetitiveness of battles and the linearity of the gameplay, highlighted by IGN Portugal and Jeuxvideo.com, may deter some players from engaging with the game multiple times. Critics like NME and SpazioGames also mention that despite the charming visuals and engaging gameplay, the absence of a difficulty selector and the presence of backtracking could potentially frustrate players, impacting their overall enjoyment and willingness to replay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remains a beloved title with significant replay value, particularly for newcomers and fans of the original. While there are valid criticisms regarding the lack of new content for returning players and some repetitive elements, the engaging story, character depth, and strategic gameplay mechanics create a compelling experience. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Player 2 affirm that the game is still worth revisiting, thanks to its charm and quality of life improvements. Thus, while there are areas for improvement, the remaster successfully captures the essence of the original, making it a recommended play for both old fans and new players alike.

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 many critics praising its remastered version on the Nintendo Switch as a faithful and beautifully executed homage to the original GameCube classic. Critics such as App Trigger and COGconnected highlight the game's enhanced graphics, quality of life improvements, and the preservation of its beloved gameplay elements. The narrative, characters, and music have also received commendation, with reviewers like Eurogamer Poland and Shacknews noting the engaging storytelling and charming visuals that contribute to the game's timeless appeal. Many critics, including GameSpew and Gfinity, emphasize the game's fun combat mechanics and sharp writing, making it a must-play for both new players and long-time fans of the series. Despite the largely favorable reviews, several critics pointed out some drawbacks that may affect the overall experience. Issues such as pacing problems due to excessive dialogue and backtracking were mentioned by ComicBook and Jeuxvideo.com, which could potentially frustrate players. Additionally, some reviewers, like Games.cz and IGN Portugal, noted that the combat mechanics felt somewhat shallow and repetitive, which might not resonate well with modern gamers seeking more depth in gameplay. Furthermore, the lack of new content for returning players was a common critique, as highlighted by Checkpoint Gaming and Gfinity, suggesting that while the remaster is excellent, it may not offer enough fresh experiences for those familiar with the original. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a highly recommended title that successfully revitalizes a beloved classic while maintaining its core charm and engaging gameplay. While minor issues such as pacing and combat depth were noted, the overwhelming sentiment is that the remaster is a worthwhile addition to the Nintendo Switch library, appealing to both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike. Critics like GGRecon and Player 2 encapsulate this sentiment, recognizing the game's status as a masterpiece that stands the test of time, making it an essential experience for RPG enthusiasts.

TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remastered on Nintendo Switch is a nostalgic triumph, celebrated for its stunning visuals, engaging story, and fun combat. While pacing issues, repetitive mechanics, and lack of new content for veterans are noted drawbacks, critics overwhelmingly endorse it as a must-play for both newcomers and longtime fans, solidifying its status as a classic RPG experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

151 reviews found

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

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

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

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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Comicbook.com

Nintendo Switch

May 21, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is highly recommended, with the remastered version on Nintendo Switch being considered the definitive way to experience this classic game. Despite some pacing issues with excessive dialogue, the game's charm and gameplay make it a worthwhile experience.

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PC Games

Nintendo Switch

May 21, 2024

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

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is praised for its engaging story, fun gameplay mechanics, and charming visuals, making it a highly recommended experience for fans of the genre.

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