Six instalments deep, it was always going to be a challenge for Nintendo to impress with their latest addition to the Paper Mario series, The Origami King. Still, as one of the most visually-pleasing and inventive back-catalogues, it won't take too much convincing for people to jump back in and give it a try. We got the opportunity to put the Nintendo Switch sequel to the test; so is it worth the purchase?
With an invitation to visit a new Origami Festival near Princess Peach's castle in Toad Town from the monarch herself, Mario and Luigi set off on a journey that, lo and behold, quickly turns into the famous little plumber being forced to save his loved ones from ultimate destruction - or something along those lines...
Upon arrival, it becomes clear that Peach isn't her usual self, and before too long it's revealed that an origami enthusiast called King Olly is intent on turning the entire world into folded pieces of paper! Yes, it's an absolutely ridiculous concept, but this is Mario. It's what we've come to expect and, with a lack of humour in so many titles nowadays, a welcome relief from the repetitive seriousness we usually encounter in such high-profile releases.
The first big notable change from Paper Mario games of the past is the revamped combat system. This time round, Mario is placed at the centre of a circle littered with his enemies, whilst players are challenged to ensure all adversaries find themselves standing in a straight line, so Mario can get rid of them in one fell swoop. This doesn't appear to be too challenging in the earlier rounds, but you will have to engage the logical part of your brain as you progress deeper into the narrative. There are a number of different weapons to aid you on your way, but a little more variety wouldn't have gone amiss.
Combat changes once more when it comes to boss battles. Here, Mario finds himself on the outside of the circle, and gamers are tasked with forming a path to the centre where the boss resides. Do this, and a range of different attacks can be unleashed.
It's a unique system that's certainly freshened up the typical Mario gameplay. Despite the new tactical additions however, there's no option to challenge a friend in any sort of multiplayer mode. This is a single-player campaign through-and-through. Future instalments should definitely look at bringing your mates on board; especially if they're to remain on the Switch platform.
Then there's the addition of new companion Olivia; the origami sister of King Olly who's just as intent on bringing her nasty sibling down as Mario himself. She can aid our hero by granting him the 1000-fold arms ability, that gives him the ability to tear back huge pieces of the paper environment, revealing secrets in doing so. The motion control system on the Switch comes into play here, and whilst it can be a little tricky to wrap your head around immediately, once you get the hang of things, it comes naturally.
Familiar faces jump into the action to help bring King Olly down; even Bowser's on-hand to help out wherever he can, after being folded up himself and taken down a peg or two. The nostalgia laced throughout the story is one that will have long-time Mario fans smiling from ear to ear; and that's exactly what we need right now.
What stands out above all else however, is how The Origami King looks. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful Nintendo Switch games available. Developers Intelligent Systems have created an intensely colourful combination of settings and characters and, it's one that absolutely deserves your attention.
Paper Mario: The Origami King is available now. A key for the game was provided to Female First in exchange for a fair and honest review.
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