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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: Critik 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 captivates with its engaging narrative, clever writing, and a diverse cast of characters, earning high praise for its humor and character development. Critics celebrate its whimsical charm and unexpected plot twists, though some note pacing issues and repetitive elements that can detract from the experience. Overall, while it may falter in spots, the game's unique storytelling and character-driven narrative establish it as a cherished title in the Mario franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

95%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (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 widespread acclaim from critics, who highlight its engaging narrative and diverse cast of characters. Reviewers such as App Trigger and But Why Tho? praise the clever writing and the depth of character development, noting that the dialogue is both humorous and well-crafted. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and Nintendojo emphasize the game's light-hearted atmosphere and surprising plot twists, which add depth to the overall experience. The incorporation of unique gameplay segments, particularly those involving Princess Peach, is noted by App Trigger as a standout feature that enhances the storytelling. Overall, the narrative is described as whimsical, charming, and filled with memorable moments, making it a delightful journey for players. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks in the story's execution. For instance, Checkpoint Gaming and Jeuxvideo.com mention that the plot can feel simplistic and may suffer from repetitive elements, such as excessive backtracking or pacing issues. Critics like Twinfinite also express that while the narrative starts off strong, it can become mechanical and predictable in its beats, particularly in the first half of the game. Additionally, ComicBook and Comicbook.com note that while the dialogue is humorous, there are instances where it can drag on, potentially affecting the pacing of the overall story. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door features a compelling story that is both entertaining and engaging, with a strong focus on character-driven narratives. The majority of reviewers, including those from GamingTrend and Shacknews, agree that the game successfully blends humor with darker elements, creating a unique storytelling experience within the Mario universe. While some critics have pointed out flaws related to pacing and simplicity, the positive aspects of the narrative, such as its creativity and charm, shine through, solidifying its status as a beloved title in the 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 and strategic depth, earning praise for new features like fast travel and customizable abilities. Critics highlight its nostalgic charm and well-rounded gameplay, but some note issues with combat pacing and repetitiveness. Overall, it’s a well-crafted RPG that appeals to both newcomers and fans, despite calls for refinement in certain areas.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (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 character abilities. Reviewers like App Trigger praised the introduction of new features such as a fast travel system and partner ring, which enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics from But Why Tho? and Cubed3 emphasized the RPG mechanics, noting the engaging puzzles and the ability to customize Mario's abilities with badges, which adds layers of strategy to combat. Additionally, the incorporation of exploration and character interaction, as mentioned by Metro GameCentral, contributes to a well-rounded gameplay experience that many found enjoyable and nostalgic. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out issues with the combat system, describing it as slow and at times unengaging. Areajugones noted that while the turn-based combat features strategic elements, it can feel tedious and repetitive, particularly in certain chapters. IGN Portugal echoed this sentiment, criticizing the gameplay mechanics for lacking depth and variety. Other reviewers, such as Dot Esports, highlighted the potential for encounters to become monotonous, especially during backtracking segments. These critiques suggest that while the game has a solid foundation, certain aspects could benefit from refinement to maintain player engagement throughout. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a commendable gameplay experience that successfully blends traditional RPG elements with innovative mechanics. Many reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and GGRecon, praised the depth and strategic nature of the combat system, while also appreciating the quality of life improvements that enhance gameplay. Despite some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and pacing, the majority of critics agree that the game is a well-crafted RPG that captures the charm of the original while introducing new features that resonate with both new and returning players. This positive sentiment underscores the game's status as a beloved title in the Mario franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics are raving about the visuals of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, praising its vibrant character models and enhanced paper-craft aesthetic that breathe new life into the classic game on the Nintendo Switch. While many celebrate the remaster's captivating art direction and immersive experience, some note drawbacks like a frame rate drop to 30fps and comparisons to newer titles. Overall, it’s deemed a standout remaster that successfully combines nostalgia with modern appeal, making it a visually striking experience for fans old and new.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (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, praised the remaster for enhancing the visuals and fixing issues from the original game, making it more visually appealing. Critics like COGconnected and Gfinity highlighted the vibrant character models and improved lighting, which contribute to a more immersive experience. The game's art direction is frequently described as delightful, with a unique paper-craft aesthetic that has been successfully updated for modern platforms. Reviewers such as Dot Esports and Digital Trends noted how the design effectively enhances the paper-themed concept, while others like TechRadar Gaming emphasized the jaw-dropping visual overhaul that resembles a pop-up storybook. 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 recent Nintendo titles. Additionally, Multiplayer.it and SpazioGames noted that although the visuals have been updated, the frame rate has dropped to 30fps from the original 60fps, which may impact gameplay for some players. Eurogamer Poland and Player 2 also expressed that while the graphics are enhanced, certain elements may feel dated compared to contemporary standards, indicating a mix of nostalgia and modern appeal. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door successfully revitalizes its graphics and visual design, making it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. The remaster has been praised for its captivating paper-crafted world and improved artistic elements, as noted by critics like Vandal and Twinfinite. While there are minor concerns regarding frame rate and comparisons to newer titles, the majority agree that the game’s visuals are impressive and effectively capture the essence of the original, allowing it to compete with modern peers. The remaster not only preserves the charm of the original but also enhances it, making it a visually appealing experience for both new players and returning fans.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door’s refreshed soundtrack and sound design, praising its immersive atmosphere and unique battle themes. The option to toggle between the new and original scores is a standout feature. However, some lament the lack of voice acting and have mixed feelings about certain new tracks. Overall, the audio enhancements are mostly celebrated, enriching the game's charm and experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (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 significant praise from critics, particularly for the captivating and refreshed soundtrack. Reviewers such as Areajugones and IGN Portugal highlight the soundtrack as a strong point, enhancing the immersive atmosphere of the game. Many critics, including Cubed3 and GGRecon, commend the addition of unique battle themes for each chapter, which adds variety and excitement to gameplay. The option to switch between the newly arranged soundtrack and the original score is a recurring positive aspect noted by several critics, including Eurogamer Poland and GameOver.gr, allowing players to enjoy both nostalgia and modern reinterpretation. The sound design has also received accolades for its meticulous crafting, with COGconnected emphasizing the rhythmic noises that reflect character actions and improve the overall experience. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics express disappointment regarding the absence of voice acting, which App Trigger argues could have enhanced immersion and reduced the text-heavy moments in the game. Additionally, there are mixed opinions on the quality of the new soundtrack; GamingTrend mentions that some tracks overuse overdriven guitars, while Nintendojo considers the updated soundtrack inferior to the original. Furthermore, Player 2 notes that while there are new sound bites, the overall sound design remains largely unchanged from the original release, suggesting that not all aspects of the audio experience have evolved satisfactorily. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the sound design and music in Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. While there are criticisms regarding the lack of voice acting and some mixed results with the new soundtrack, the majority of reviewers appreciate the enhancements made to the audio experience. The remixed soundtrack, as described by TechRadar Gaming and Vandal, is seen as a beautiful addition that enriches gameplay, and the option to toggle between the new and original soundtracks is widely regarded as a thoughtful feature. Critics agree that the sound design successfully complements the game's charm and narrative, 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 Nintendo Switch impresses with solid 30 FPS performance and quality-of-life upgrades, but some critics lament the drop from 60 FPS and occasional frame rate dips. Despite frustrations over menu delays and missing modern features, most reviewers agree the enhancements outweigh the drawbacks, delivering a nostalgic experience that's enjoyable for both new players and fans of the original. Overall, it's a well-received remaster that balances nostalgia with refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

23%

Mixed (50-79)

77%

Negative (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 Nintenduo, commend 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 highlight quality-of-life improvements, including faster loading times and enhanced visuals, which contribute to a smoother gameplay experience. The remaster has been noted for its well-crafted technical performance and updated translations, with multiple reviewers acknowledging that the streamlined systems, such as new warp pipes and partner management, enhance overall enjoyment. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the technical performance on the Switch. Several reviewers, including Digital Trends and Cubed3, express disappointment over the game's downgrade from the original 60 FPS to 30 FPS, which some players may find jarring. Issues such as occasional frame rate drops during crowded scenes and delays in menu navigation have also been mentioned, with Metro GameCentral pointing out long load times and partner AI issues that detract from the experience. Critics like PlaySense and Jeuxvideo.com highlight the absence of modern features, such as text acceleration and the ability to save anywhere, which can hinder pacing and convenience, especially in handheld mode. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Nintendo Switch does have its technical shortcomings, particularly regarding frame rate and certain quality-of-life features, the majority of players will find these issues manageable. Many reviewers, like RPG Site and Vandal, emphasize that the enhancements and stable performance largely compensate for the drawbacks, allowing players to enjoy a nostalgic yet refined experience. The game is seen as a worthy remaster that respects the original while integrating improvements, making it a solid choice for both newcomers and returning fans.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door's Nintendo Switch remaster boosts replay value with new features, extensive content, and strategic gameplay, drawing praise from critics. However, concerns arise over repetitive gameplay, missed opportunities for veteran players, and a lack of significant changes, which may limit its appeal for some. Ultimately, while it's a nostalgic hit, the remaster's depth and replay longevity face scrutiny. It's a must-play for fans, but not without flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (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 highlighting the enhancements made in the Nintendo Switch remaster. App Trigger emphasizes that the new features significantly boost the game's replayability for both newcomers and returning fans. Similarly, GGRecon praises the wealth of content available, including collectibles and side quests that encourage exploration. Critics like Pure Nintendo and Nintenduo underline the game's extensive length and the variety of side quests, which provide ample opportunities for completionists to engage with the game beyond the main story. The strategic elements of gameplay, as noted by Nintendojo, also contribute to a unique experience based on player choices, further enhancing replay value. However, several criticisms regarding replay value have been noted. Checkpoint Gaming points out that while there are new features, there remains a missed opportunity for additional content for veterans of the original game. IGN Portugal and Jeuxvideo.com express concerns about the repetitive nature of gameplay, which may deter players from revisiting the experience. Critics like NME and SpazioGames mention that the lack of significant changes and a difficulty selector could impact the game's replay value, suggesting that some players may find the experience less engaging upon subsequent playthroughs. Additionally, the linearity of the game, as mentioned by Metro GameCentral, may limit the exploration aspect that some players seek. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door offers a nostalgic and engaging experience with improvements that enhance replay value, it is not without its flaws. Many reviewers, including GamingTrend and Player 2, affirm that the game's charm, story, and character depth make it enjoyable even for those who have played it before. However, the concerns about repetitive gameplay and missed opportunities for additional content suggest that while the game is a must-play for fans, it may not provide the same level of replay value for all players. Thus, the remaster is celebrated for its accessibility and quality, yet it also invites scrutiny regarding its depth and longevity.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

94%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (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 many critics praising its remastered version on the Nintendo Switch as a remarkable enhancement of the original GameCube classic. Reviewers like App Trigger and GGRecon highlight the game as a "near perfect title" and "definitive version," respectively, emphasizing the successful retention of the original's charm, humor, and engaging gameplay. Critics have commended the game's beautiful graphics, improved soundtrack, and quality of life enhancements, which contribute to a delightful experience for both new and returning players. The narrative, character development, and engaging RPG mechanics were frequently cited as standout features, with publications like Shacknews and COGconnected noting the imaginative storytelling and preserved gameplay that make it an essential addition to the Nintendo Switch library. However, while the remaster has received high praise, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that could affect player enjoyment. Issues such as pacing problems due to excessive dialogue and forced backtracking were mentioned by critics like ComicBook and Jeuxvideo.com, indicating that these elements might detract from the overall experience, especially for those sensitive to such design choices. Additionally, some reviewers, like Games.cz, suggested that the game might not resonate as well with modern gamers seeking contemporary gameplay experiences, and others noted a lack of additional content for returning fans, which could limit replayability. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a well-crafted and engaging remaster that successfully revitalizes a beloved classic. The majority of reviewers, including Eurogamer Poland and Digital Trends, recommend the game highly, acknowledging its strengths while also recognizing some minor drawbacks. Overall, the game is celebrated for its nostalgic value, charming visuals, and engaging gameplay, making it a must-play title for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on Nintendo Switch is hailed as a stunning remaster of the GameCube classic, praised for its charm, humor, and engaging gameplay. Critics highlight its beautiful graphics and improved soundtrack, making it a must-have for fans and newcomers. However, some note pacing issues and a lack of new content for returning players, which could affect enjoyment. Overall, it’s a highly recommended title with minor flaws.

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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