This story was originally published in the second edition of The Lion’s Tale (November 6, 2020).

Nintendo is one of the biggest gaming companies in the world. They have created 8 home consoles and 9 portable ones. They’ve also created 715 licensed games. Their most popular franchise and best earning one is most certainly Mario. One of the subcategories in this franchise is Paper Mario.

The sixth Paper Mario game, Origami King, was released on July 17th 2020. Having sold 2.82 million copies in the first 3 months of release, it’s clear that many were expecting this title with high expectations.

Along with the new release, new changes were also made. The game decided to get rid of the level system, switching to an open world area. While not as large as it seems, it provides continuity and gives a sense of true progression.

Following it’s predecessors, instead of reusing Bowser as the main villain of the story like many other Super Mario games have in the past, Nintendo has introduced a new villain: “King Olly”, genocidal tyrant and older brother to Mario’s new companion Olivia. I think this gives a fresh face to the game, and is good overall.

Critics have been a bit harsh on the game, due to multiple “unnecessary” changes. In my opinion, the changes made were good for the game. Multiple series from different publishers don’t make many changes, so having them is a positive and fresh experience.

If being able to explore a true open world is what you’re looking for in a game, filled with a new aesthetic never seen in Paper Mario before, then Paper Mario Origami King is the title for you.

All in all, I rate Paper Mario and The Origami King an 8/10. While the ring battle system is a bit off, the game is a truly new experience, up to contest with classics such as Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door and Super Paper Mario, that any long time fan of the series should check out.

ASSET CREDIT: NINTENDO