Paper Mario: TTYD Remake Review

is a 2024 remake of a 2004 release, celebrating the 20th anniversary of an iconic GameCube classic with a reputation that grew even more over time following its release. It feels very much like the blueprint of modern games, a sublime blend of the mechanics of older iterations and a fresh spin using new mechanics and wonderful storytelling. While it's true to its source and only makes minor tweaks to the original release, the remake of is proof it was massively ahead of its time — it feels like a 2024 game in nearly every way.

The concept of is quite simple, with the shift in graphical depiction also allowing for the game to have a much different tone than more mainstream games like. For whatever reason, the decision to make Mario a 2D paper version of himself unlocks the ability to tell a far wittier, sometimes shockingly dark narrative that challenges what's possible in the series. For many, the original is the premier instance of a game, standing among the best in the franchise as a whole — and the remake doesn't change that at all.

The charm inherent to begins immediately, when oft-ignored brother Luigi trudges out of a house labeled «Mario» and reads a letter to his brother from Peach rather than simply handing it to him, allowing Mario to remain silent and the story to progress. It sets the tone at breakneck pace, showcasing a game that has no issues poking fun at its larger series while delivering a memorable story full of loveable characters. If there's one sole reason to revisit as a veteran of the original, it's to relive the narrative, which remains an entertaining romp through a world capable of some shockingly emotional beats.

While Mario is the star in name, it's his supporting cast that steals the spotlight. Goombella the archaeology student and Admiral Bobbery the Bob-omb are two standouts, with the latter featuring the kind of mature, interesting backstory that feels shocking in a game. They each bring their own unique skillsets to combat as