Paper Mario for Nintendo 64 Celebrates 23-Year Anniversary

Ah, do you remember the golden days of Nintendo's N64 era? A time when Mario wasn't just jumping on Goombas or racing in karts but exploring a whole new dimension in the gaming world. I mean, who would've thought the Mushroom Kingdom's iconic plumber would go flat, and in a good way? Enter the realm of the original Paper Mario game!

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Origin of Paper Mario

This title wasn't just another spinoff in Nintendo's repertoire. It stood as a spiritual sequel to the widely adored Super Mario RPG on the SNES.

The standout feature of Paper Mario? Its captivating paper aesthetic. And it wasn't just a gimmick - the game wholly embodied this theme, with character cutouts, innovative world interactions, and how you navigated through its landscape. Paired with its rich RPG combat and Mario's supportive partners in both fights and quests, it's clear why this game etched its mark in so many hearts.

Paper Mario 64 - Turn-Based Attack System | Image: Nintendo

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door and Beyond

And while the memories of the N64 title are vivid, one can't help but also cast an appreciative nod to its successor - Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Nintendo Gamecube. This sequel didn't merely ride the success wave of its predecessor; it amplified it. The game advanced the franchise’s stylistic approach and combat mechanics, earning its spot on the pedestal of 'one of the best RPGs ever made'. High praise, you say? Well, that's precisely the impression it left on players.

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door - (Left to Right) Kami Koopa, Bowser, Princess Peach, Mario, Goombella, Yoshi, Koops, Madame Flurry | Image: Nintendo

However, every story has its twists and turns. As dedicated fans would note, the Paper Mario series took a noticeable detour post these two iconic games. While Nintendo aimed to explore a "different direction" with subsequent titles like Sticker Star, Color Splash, and Origami King, many felt these games missed the distinct style, narrative depth, and intrinsic allure the Nintendo 64 and Nintendo Gamecube renditions exuded.

Though Origami King's sales metrics were decent, particularly outperforming its handheld and Wii U predecessors, it didn't quite recreate the magic of the original duo. For years, ardent fans have been reaching out to Nintendo, ardently wishing for a worthy remake of the first two Paper Mario games for the Switch or a sequel that recaptures their essence. Despite these passionate appeals, Nintendo seems rooted in their decisions, making anniversaries such as this even more poignant.

Conclusion

So, as we celebrate Paper Mario's 23rd trip around the sun and reminisce about its brilliant legacy, it's a heartfelt nod to a game that has been nothing short of legendary. If the corridors of your memory house delightful memories of playing this game, do share! We'd love to hear your tales from the Mushroom Kingdom, in all its paper glory.

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