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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 as a Nintendo classic, celebrated for its captivating story, vibrant characters, and witty dialogue. Critics applaud its unique gameplay and humor, with standout moments featuring Princess Peach enhancing the experience. While some mention pacing issues and inconsistent chapter impact, the overall consensus is that the game skillfully balances lightheartedness with deeper themes, making it a must-play for fans. Despite minor flaws, its charm and creativity secure its status as a beloved title in the gaming world.

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 critics praising its engaging narrative, diverse cast of characters, and clever writing. Reviewers like App Trigger and But Why Tho? highlight the game's unique storytelling elements, including the quirky gameplay segments featuring Princess Peach, which add depth and creativity to the experience. Critics such as Nintendojo and GGRecon commend the well-developed characters and the humor that permeates the dialogue, making it one of Nintendo's standout titles. The narrative's focus on the journey rather than just the end goal is a recurring theme, as noted by Areajugones, who emphasizes the importance of character development and the engaging quest structure that keeps players invested. While the majority of critiques are positive, some reviewers point out certain drawbacks. For instance, ComicBook and Jeuxvideo.com mention pacing issues, with moments of excessive dialogue that can slow down the overall experience. Critics like COGconnected and Twinfinite note that while the story is engaging, some chapters may feel less impactful than others, leading to a perception of inconsistency in the narrative's quality. Additionally, Metro GameCentral describes the story as inconsequential at times, suggesting that while the humor is strong, it may overshadow the narrative's stakes. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door delivers a charming and humorous narrative that captivates players. Reviewers such as Digital Trends and Vooks appreciate the blend of lightheartedness with darker themes, creating a rich storytelling experience that resonates with both new and returning players. The game's ability to balance humor, character depth, and engaging plot twists has solidified its reputation as one of Nintendo's most beloved titles, making it a must-play for fans of the 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, strategic depth, and innovative features like fast travel and partner switching. Critics praise the RPG mechanics and customization options, making for a dynamic gameplay experience. However, some note issues with repetitive combat and tedious backtracking, which can detract from enjoyment. Despite these flaws, the game is largely celebrated for its blend of exploration, puzzles, and combat, successfully adapting to modern gaming while honoring its roots. Overall, it’s a solid RPG that’s worth playing.

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, strategic depth, and unique mechanics. Reviewers like App Trigger praised the introduction of new features such as a fast travel system and a partner ring for quicker sidekick switching, which enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics like But Why Tho? and Cubed3 emphasized the RPG mechanics, noting the unique character abilities and the badge system that allows for customization and strategic upgrades. The combat system, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and TechRadar Gaming, is described as tight and fast-paced, offering a mix of traditional turn-based elements with interactive features that keep players engaged. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics pointed out issues like repetitive combat and tedious backtracking. Areajugones criticized the combat for being slow and unengaging at times, while IGN Portugal noted a lack of depth and variety in attacks that detracts from the overall experience. Dot Esports echoed this sentiment, mentioning that combat can become tedious, particularly in certain chapters. Additionally, GameSpew highlighted the tiresome nature of some mini-games, indicating that while the gameplay is enjoyable, it can also lead to moments of frustration. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a solid and enjoyable gameplay experience, with many praising its strategic elements and engaging combat. While there are criticisms regarding repetitiveness and pacing, the majority of reviewers, including GamingTrend and Vooks, agree that the game successfully combines exploration, puzzles, and turn-based combat, making it a worthwhile addition to the RPG genre. The presence of quality-of-life improvements and new gameplay features has been well-received, suggesting that the game not only honors its legacy but also adapts to modern expectations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics hail the remastered Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door for its vibrant visuals and enhanced aesthetics, praising improvements in design and lighting that breathe new life into the original game. While some minor flaws, like lower frame rates and perspective issues, were noted, the remaster successfully retains the charm of the classic and stands out among modern titles, making it a must-play for both newcomers and fans.

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 remastered visuals for enhancing the original game’s aesthetic, with App Trigger noting that the remaster makes it "more visually appealing." Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected highlighted improvements such as thicker paper cut-out outlines, better lighting, and more detailed backgrounds, which contribute to a vibrant and engaging world. The colorful character designs and creative level layouts were also frequently mentioned, with Digital Trends and Cubed3 celebrating the game's clever paper-craft aesthetics and dynamic lighting effects. Overall, the remaster seems to have successfully updated the visuals while retaining the charm of the original, making it stand out even when compared to modern titles. Despite the general acclaim, some critics did point out a few drawbacks. For instance, But Why Tho? remarked that while the visuals are colorful and cute, they do not quite match the standards set by more recent Nintendo titles. Additionally, GamingTrend mentioned that the game runs at 30fps instead of the original's 60fps, which some players might find disappointing. Other critiques included minor perspective issues related to the '2D in 3D' art style, as noted by Dot Esports, and the fact that some areas, like Rogueport, may appear overly colorful, as mentioned by Gfinity. These concerns suggest that while the remaster has significantly improved the graphics, there are still elements that could be refined further. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has received a commendable visual upgrade that enhances its original charm while bringing it in line with contemporary gaming standards. Reviewers like ComicBook and TechRadar Gaming emphasized that the remaster not only retains the essence of the original but also competes well with modern games. Critics generally agree that the improvements in graphics, character designs, and environmental details contribute to a polished and immersive experience, making it a worthwhile remaster for both new players and fans of the original.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door boasts a largely praised soundtrack that enhances gameplay, with critics lauding its charm and immersive quality. While the remastered music and sound design improvements are well-received, some criticize the lack of voice acting and inconsistent new tracks. Overall, it successfully merges nostalgia with modernity, creating a memorable audio experience for both new players and long-time fans.

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 overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game’s captivating and varied soundtrack. Reviewers like Areajugones and IGN Portugal highlight how the music contributes significantly to the game's charm and immersive atmosphere. The new soundtrack, described as exceptional by Cubed3 and TechRadar Gaming, features unique battle themes for each chapter, enhancing the gameplay experience. Critics also appreciate the option to switch between the original and remastered soundtracks, which provides a nostalgic touch for long-time fans, as noted by Eurogamer Poland and GameOver.gr. Additionally, COGconnected points out the improvements in sound design, including character-specific sound bites that add life to the dialogue and enhance the overall experience. However, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music. App Trigger mentions the absence of voice acting, which could have further enriched immersion and reduced text-heavy moments. Some critics, like GamingTrend and Nintendojo, express mixed feelings about the new soundtrack, with concerns that certain tracks may not measure up to the original's quality. Player 2 notes that while there are updates to the soundtrack, the overall sound design remains largely unchanged from the original release, suggesting a missed opportunity for further innovation. Moreover, Pure Nintendo raises issues with switching between the original and updated soundtracks, indicating that the implementation might not be as seamless as desired. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a richly enhanced audio experience that complements the gameplay. While the remastered soundtrack and sound design improvements are generally well-received, some critics highlight the lack of voice acting and inconsistencies in the quality of the new music as areas for improvement. Overall, the game successfully blends nostalgia with modern elements, creating a memorable auditory experience that resonates with both new players and fans of the original.

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 is positively received for its stable 30 FPS performance and quality-of-life improvements like faster loading times and better visuals. While some critics highlight occasional frame rate drops and the downgrade from 60 FPS as drawbacks, the overall sentiment favors the remaster's charm and modern adaptations, making it an enjoyable experience despite some technical hiccups.

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. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and Nintenduo praised the game for its stable performance, consistently running at 30 frames per second (FPS) without significant lag or glitches. Critics like ComicBook and GameOver.gr highlighted quality-of-life improvements, such as faster loading times and enhanced visuals, which contribute to a smoother gameplay experience. Additionally, many reviewers noted that despite the frame rate being capped at 30 FPS, the overall performance remains solid, allowing for enjoyable gameplay without major technical disruptions. However, several negative aspects have been pointed out regarding the technical performance on the Switch. Critics like Digital Trends and Metro GameCentral noted occasional frame rate drops during crowded scenes, which can detract from the experience. Some reviewers, including Cubed3 and GGRecon, expressed disappointment over the downgrade from the original 60 FPS, suggesting that purists might find this change significant. Other issues mentioned include long loading times and menu delays, as highlighted by GamingTrend and Jeuxvideo.com, which can hinder the overall pacing and enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Nintendo Switch has its share of technical shortcomings, the positives largely outweigh the negatives. The stable 30 FPS performance, combined with various quality-of-life enhancements, has been appreciated by many, including TechRadar Gaming and Vandal, who noted that the enhanced visuals help compensate for the lower frame rate. While some critics like Pure Nintendo pointed out specific oversights, such as the lack of a save anywhere feature, the general sentiment leans toward a favorable reception, suggesting that the remaster successfully retains the charm of the original while adapting to modern gaming expectations.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door shines with its engaging story, charming characters, and strategic gameplay, making it a hit for newcomers and veterans alike. Critics praise enhancements like side quests and collectibles that boost replay value. However, concerns about repetitiveness, minor improvements for veterans, and linearity dampen its allure for some. Overall, it's a beloved remaster that balances nostalgia with a few pitfalls, ensuring it remains a must-play for fans, old and new.

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 of various critics regarding the replay value of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its enduring appeal. Many reviewers, such as App Trigger and GGRecon, praise the remaster's enhancements, which include new features that elevate the gameplay experience for both newcomers and returning fans. The game is noted for its engaging story, charming characters, and strategic combat mechanics, which provide a solid foundation for replayability. Critics like Cubed3 and Pure Nintendo emphasize the abundance of side quests, collectibles, and hidden areas that invite exploration, catering to completionists and those looking to experience all that the game has to offer. The addition of unlockable galleries and optional hints, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming, further enriches the experience, making it worthwhile for players to revisit the game. Conversely, several critics express concerns regarding the game's replay value, particularly in relation to its perceived repetitiveness and lack of significant new content for veteran players. Critics like Digital Trends and NME point out that while the remake includes minor improvements, it falls short of providing substantial enhancements that would entice players to replay it extensively. The linearity of the game and the potential monotony of battles, as noted by IGN Portugal and Jeuxvideo.com, may deter some players from revisiting the experience. Additionally, the absence of a difficulty selector, highlighted by SpazioGames, could limit the challenge for seasoned players seeking a more demanding experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remains a beloved title with notable replay value, albeit with some caveats. While many reviewers, such as TechRadar Gaming and Player 2, affirm that the engaging story and charming gameplay make it a must-play, others caution that the game’s repetitive elements and lack of new content for returning players may hinder its replayability. Despite these criticisms, the remaster has been generally well-received, with many agreeing that it successfully introduces a classic title to a new generation while retaining the charm that made it a favorite among fans.

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 surrounding Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its faithful remastering and enhancements that breathe new life into the beloved classic. Reviewers like App Trigger and GGRecon highlight the game's stunning visuals, improved graphics, and engaging storytelling, calling it a "must-play" for both new and returning fans. Many critics, such as COGconnected and Checkpoint Gaming, commend the game for preserving the original's charm while incorporating quality-of-life improvements, making it an essential addition to the Nintendo Switch library. The vibrant art direction, delightful characters, and inventive level design are frequently mentioned as standout features, contributing to a highly entertaining experience that resonates with players. However, despite the acclaim, several critics point out certain drawbacks that may affect the enjoyment of some players. Issues such as pacing problems due to excessive dialogue and repetitive combat mechanics are noted by critics like IGN Portugal and GameSpew. Some reviews, including those from Dot Esports and Jeuxvideo.com, mention frustrations with backtracking and a lack of new content for returning players, which could detract from the experience for those familiar with the original. Additionally, while the remaster has improved many aspects, some critics feel that it could benefit from further design updates to appeal to modern gamers, as noted by Games.cz. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a triumph of a remaster, successfully capturing the essence of the original while enhancing it for contemporary audiences. The game is widely regarded as one of the best in the series, with many reviewers, including Cubed3 and Digital Trends, recommending it highly for its engaging gameplay and nostalgic value. While minor issues exist, the majority of critics agree that the positives far outweigh the negatives, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and longtime fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a stellar remaster, praised for its stunning visuals, engaging storytelling, and charm that appeals to both new and returning fans. Critics call it a must-play for the Nintendo Switch, highlighting vibrant art and inventive design. However, some note pacing issues and repetitive combat, along with frustrations over backtracking and limited new content for veterans. Despite minor drawbacks, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, marking it as a top-tier entry in the series.

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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