The
thinner version of the worlds most popular plumber is back ( Sorry Mr. Rooter.) Paper Mario first appeared as one of
the last titles on Nintendo''s N64 system. Then a sequel on the Gamecube. Both titles were in an innovative Adventure/RPG format which was new for the series. Now the paper thin
version of the slightly overweight
plumber is back. On a new system and in a new format. The Nintendo Wii less then a year old will host a few Mario titles this year. Super Mario Galaxy will be a 3-D roaming title like that of Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine. Super Paper Mario however differs in it''s style from all these titles, and takes some cues from a DS title released this past year called New Super Mario. Super Paper Mario at first glance seems to follow the format of the original Super Mario game which is now well over 20 years old. The 2-D view has a cartoon like feel and playfully captures memories of those early Mario games. The secret is however when the player presses the "A" button, the “paper” Mario pivots, and the world expands into a forward facing 3-D view. Pipes which blocked the way, can now be walked around easily. Objects that seemed to be stagnant in the background are now new interactive parts of the environment. Mario is no longer subjected to one hit deaths, he has a heart meter which declines after taking damage and if the player stays in the 3-D view for to long. The power-ups include items which were used in the other paper Mario titles, these items effectiveness are dependant upon the player ability to perform certain task such as moving the remote into requested directions, shaking it, or pointing and shooting at screen. If you are not familiar with the Wii Remote these things may sound quite odd, but the task are quite easy to perform. New to this version of Paper Mario are the Pixls, electronic buddies who help Mario interact with his new multi-dimensional world. The main Pixl which is onscreen most of the time (wink, wink) is Tippi. This electronic butterfly may be controlled by the user by moving the remote from it''s sideways (NES like) control style which Mario is played as, to the pointing remote (like a TV remote) style. By doing this the player can pause the action and move a flashlight around the screen were Tippi will explain what things are and uncover hidden objects. Other pixels let Mario grab things, ground pound, float over spikes, throw bombs, etc. The game keeps certain RPG elements of the previous Paper Mario games. Such as an experience point system, shops, cooking, and card collection. By collecting the cards of enemies your attacks against them will be stronger. Another added feature is the ability to play at anytime as Peach or Bowser. After you find them they are added to your party. Yup, you and Bowser are on the same team. These characters however can not go into the 3-D view, but Peach can float over long gaps (thanks to her umbrella) and Bowser can breath fire (the same that tormented you in the past) at enemies and his attack strength will always be double that of yours. This game is a fun addition to the Wii lineup, but like Zelda it was intended for the Gamecube and doesn''t necessarily showcase all the Wii has to offer. It is a must for any Mario fan, and those who didn''t like previous Paper Mario titles will probably enjoy this one much more. A new spin (literally) on the past it is a fun and inventive game that isn''t that challenging, but very enjoyable.