Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time

 DS
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 242 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 203 out of 242
  2. Mixed: 30 out of 242
  3. Negative: 9 out of 242
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  1. Watermelon789
    Mar 26, 2012
    8
    Mario it's a very talented man , showing in sports games, saving the princess a thousand of times , he also participates in countless of racing competition, also maintains his positive reputation against the show off Sonic and heck ! He even has his own RPG. Thats impressive for this mature man, anyway , Mario & Luigi Partners in Time it's a different take and also a very fresh entry onMario it's a very talented man , showing in sports games, saving the princess a thousand of times , he also participates in countless of racing competition, also maintains his positive reputation against the show off Sonic and heck ! He even has his own RPG. Thats impressive for this mature man, anyway , Mario & Luigi Partners in Time it's a different take and also a very fresh entry on the already huge franchise . The game is overall interesting until the end, but after that start feeling empty and boring. While the take, wasn't that much of a full RPG side I'm pleased with many of the ideas taken from triple A franchise's and the story is great for awhile , however , everything is forgettable after beating the game.… Expand
  2. TheCoolGuy99
    Apr 10, 2014
    10
    Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time is the most beautiful and enjoyable game produced by Mario and Luigi franchise yet. It's graphics may not be totally ranked in the A-team but for its coherent story and interesting premise, it's a big winner for me. With great soundtracks and especially a stunning epic music at the ending of the game.
  3. xxAcesHighxx
    Jul 12, 2013
    9
    I absolutely loved Partners in Time when it first launched on the DS way back in late 2005.

    In creating such a hugely entertaining and deliciously whimsical series of turn-based RPG spin-off's, plucked directly from Super Mario Bros' universe of timeless tales and endearing characters, Nintendo pulled off a master stroke. And at the time, Partners in Time represented the very pinnacle    I absolutely loved Partners in Time when it first launched on the DS way back in late 2005.

    In creating such a hugely entertaining and deliciously whimsical series of turn-based RPG spin-off's, plucked directly from Super Mario Bros' universe of timeless tales and endearing characters, Nintendo pulled off a master stroke. And at the time, Partners in Time represented the very pinnacle of the Japanese firms seemingly endless creativity and knack of almost Disney-esque quality story telling.

    Even after all these years, it remains my favourite episode from Nintendo's much loved franchise of 'Mario & Luigi' soft-RPG's, beating the GBA original, Superstar Saga and third installment, Bowsers Inside Story (DS) in the process.

    But while pipping the excellent Superstar Saga and Bowsers Inside Story to the post is by no means a small feat, for me Partners in Time represents so much more than 'just' the standout title in Nintendo's three-episode franchise. Indeed, as far as I'm concerned, it's also one of the finest handheld games ever made! Period. A bonafide classic and shall doubtless be remembered in Nintendo folklore for generations to come.

    I wonder if we will be heaping similar praise on Mario & Luigi's fourth instalment, and franchise debut on Nintendo 3DS, Dream Team Bros, say eight to ten years from now? While I doubt it, we must concede that it's way too early to say. Well, for the time being at least. But of this we can be certain; if ever there was a developer armed with the passion, know-how, and above all, unbridled talent, necessary to create endearing, loveable, and genuinely special games that stand the test of time, it's Nintendo.

    Looking back, I sill adore Partners in Time every bit as much now as I did in back 2005. If not more. Looking forward, I have nothing but the highest hopes for the upcoming Dream Team Bros.

    Long live Mario & Luigi.    … Expand
  4. bonnin40
    Feb 18, 2013
    9
    This is a really awesome RPG, with great story twists, fun, challenging, and innovative gameplay, good graphics, great music, you really cant go wrong with this game. This is one of marios absolute best RPG games, highly recommended to any DS owner. The game is rather short, but it is an amazing experience, that shouldnt be missed, but any means.
  5. Tylercolins
    May 12, 2014
    9
    An amazing entry to the Mario & Luigi series. Its innovative new gameplay, dark plot, hilarious humor, good graphics, and amazing soundtrack makes it a must own experience for every DS owners.
  6. nintendofan08
    Apr 9, 2016
    10
    Mario & Luigi Partners in Time's plot is one of a kind. The game has outstanding boss fights, the music is amazing, and a perfect mix of action some shocking moments (I won't mention one big one. Not going to mention it because it would be a spoiler), with light moments of comedy.
  7. GamecubeLover
    Jul 21, 2016
    9
    This game is amazing and I see the game's amazing story and amazing gameplay. The graphics are great and the music is amazing! This game is a little boring and is strange in the story but doesn't mean the game is bad!
  8. RobCAstillo
    Jul 23, 2016
    10
    This is the second game of the original Mario & Luigi Trilogy. For me, all of them were perfect. But some users try to compare it to Paper Mario, even tough this series are a sequel for the original Mario RPG game for SNES, that's appreciable due to its combat system and the original story. Even tough it has continuity despite having a different story and characters. Anyways, this game isThis is the second game of the original Mario & Luigi Trilogy. For me, all of them were perfect. But some users try to compare it to Paper Mario, even tough this series are a sequel for the original Mario RPG game for SNES, that's appreciable due to its combat system and the original story. Even tough it has continuity despite having a different story and characters. Anyways, this game is the perfect way to make an original story in a trilogy.… Expand
  9. EpicLadySponge
    Dec 27, 2015
    8
    It's not really the best of them all, but it's still decent from the series. Just hang on to your baby self and hop on to the adventure of time. You'll have fun throughout the most of the time played on this game.
  10. ooo77
    Jul 10, 2017
    0
    This was by far the worst Mario and Luigi game. The pacing was horrid and they actually make you buy the bros attacks which is absolute bull **** they should've just stuck with BP or magic or whatever. And playing as just the babies is not fun
  11. pikodon
    Apr 3, 2014
    2
    sorry to people who liked it, but this game was a pain to endure, it felt like a filler episode of a show, and there's soooo much padding.
    the plot is weak, the development of it is weak, and a lot of elements seem to have been thrown into it just to make it more complicated and pad it more. the ending comes rather abruptly, and a lot of plot threads lead nowhere, they are there just to    sorry to people who liked it, but this game was a pain to endure, it felt like a filler episode of a show, and there's soooo much padding.
    the plot is weak, the development of it is weak, and a lot of elements seem to have been thrown into it just to make it more complicated and pad it more. the ending comes rather abruptly, and a lot of plot threads lead nowhere, they are there just to keep you distracted longer.

    the battle system, while and evolution of the system from the first game, became confusing, you'll find yourself many times mistaking baby mario or luigi for their grown up counterparts in the battle sequences where you have a milisecond to guess which bro is falling.
    the enemies have no personality or motivation either.
    all in all, this is just a cheap sequel to get the franchise going, if you can, skip directly to bowser's inside story, there's no plot on this, you are not missing anything at all
    I'd bet this was co-developed by ghost developer TOSE    … Expand
  12. AutumnF
    Nov 28, 2009
    6
    Half of the time you have no idea what is going on!
  13. drlowdon
    May 6, 2020
    7
    Baby Mario and his friends are forced to flee the Mushroom Kingdom when it’s invaded by an alien race known as Shroobs, meanwhile years in the future the gang use a time machine invented by Professor Gadd to defeat the threat once and for all.

    Partners in Time is well written, even funny at times, and the combat is enjoyably challenging. Some of the drawn out boss battles are a pain    Baby Mario and his friends are forced to flee the Mushroom Kingdom when it’s invaded by an alien race known as Shroobs, meanwhile years in the future the gang use a time machine invented by Professor Gadd to defeat the threat once and for all.

    Partners in Time is well written, even funny at times, and the combat is enjoyably challenging. Some of the drawn out boss battles are a pain though, and at over twenty hours in length it began to drag a little towards the end.    … Expand
  14. Vidyafan9999
    Jun 15, 2013
    7
    I like this series almost as much as I like Paper Mario, but this one was somewhat underwhelming. The whole time travel scenario is just for show, as the past is just an excuse to throw the babies in the mix. The various time portals are basically the equivalent of level portals, as they transport you to secluded areas which are basically dungeons. There is no open world and you can'tI like this series almost as much as I like Paper Mario, but this one was somewhat underwhelming. The whole time travel scenario is just for show, as the past is just an excuse to throw the babies in the mix. The various time portals are basically the equivalent of level portals, as they transport you to secluded areas which are basically dungeons. There is no open world and you can't explore anything other than the castle in the present, so really, the entire time travel aspect is severely underused.
    The gameplay is pretty fun as always, and gets challenging later on, but I feel like the 4 button gameplay is a bit convoluted. The battles do get repetitive in the long run.
    The RPG elements are very light but acceptable for this kind of game. The music is pretty good, has many remixed tunes from Super Mario 64, and some original ones, overall it's acceptable, but not too special. Sound effects are typical Mario stuff, with Mario and Luigi talking in their made up language, which is pretty funny.

    Overall, it's a fun game, but I don't see myself replaying it any time soon because of the seriously underwhelming setting, convoluted button combinations, and repetitive combat.    … Expand
  15. ShadowR
    Nov 13, 2013
    6
    Meh... It's not as bad as Touch & Go, but is DEFINITELY not as good as it's successors. The one thing that makes it good is that it is SUPER difficult. Don't even get me started on Elder Princess Shroob.
  16. AugustusCB
    Apr 14, 2014
    4
    It truly, truly pains me to write this review. I just cannot find it in myself to like this game. To begin, the game just drags on and on in each area and the game is very formulaic. Worst of all, I could not enjoy the combat system: maintaining control over four characters to pull off special attacks is a very frustrating chore. The special attacks have also replaced the Bros. AttacksIt truly, truly pains me to write this review. I just cannot find it in myself to like this game. To begin, the game just drags on and on in each area and the game is very formulaic. Worst of all, I could not enjoy the combat system: maintaining control over four characters to pull off special attacks is a very frustrating chore. The special attacks have also replaced the Bros. Attacks from Superstar Saga, and each one is a repetitive, pointlessly tedious mini-game that eats up time and makes the battles drag as well as the areas. The game has nothing but padding and I just wanted it to end.

    Presentation-wise, the game is passable, but nothing impressive. The game's graphics barely pass a GBA title. As for the music, if you were to ask me what soundtrack belonged to what area, I would not be able to tell you.

    Thankfully, the game's story does have some funny moments: hearing Mario say "babies" cracks me up. Overall, though, the story or characters doesn't redeem this game (you know from the beginning everything will turn out well: where are the Shroob aliens present-day?!).

    As I said already, I hate that I do not like this game, seeing as how Superstar Saga is among my favorite games of all time. There's hardly anything to take away from this game. A poor sequel.    … Expand
  17. DubsGamer
    Dec 26, 2015
    9
    This is easily the best game in the Mario and Luigi franchise! The game play aspects are gripping, the switching between bros keeps it interesting and the puzzles make for a good challenge. The only flaw I could find would be the small flaws in the story line but overall a great game!!!
  18. Darkychao
    Mar 1, 2016
    5
    Excessively lengthy boss fights ruin what would otherwise be alright game.

    But although they were the biggest, the bosses aren't the only problem this game has. The game felt extremely linear, both with how they gave you field moves the at the beginning of every "chapter" the same exact way every time, and as well with how every single area of the game is in a completely different map    Excessively lengthy boss fights ruin what would otherwise be alright game.

    But although they were the biggest, the bosses aren't the only problem this game has. The game felt extremely linear, both with how they gave you field moves the at the beginning of every "chapter" the same exact way every time, and as well with how every single area of the game is in a completely different map only accessible through the hub world. Also the replacement of bros. moves with bros. items didn't work very well.

    But it also manages some good things as well. The dialog, both banter and otherwise, is, as you'd come to expect from it's predecessors, fairly well written. The story is pretty good albeit a little confusing at times.
    Other than that this game also lays some groundwork for the mechanics that made it's sequel great.    … Expand
  19. SuperRater
    Nov 5, 2009
    8
    When i first got this game I didn't know what to expect. But once I started to play it the game had me hooked. The game compines the original battleing from Paper Mario and gives it a more 3D look to it. Not to mention all the new abilities you use in the game. This game is really fun to play and is by far way better than Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga. But it does When i first got this game I didn't know what to expect. But once I started to play it the game had me hooked. The game compines the original battleing from Paper Mario and gives it a more 3D look to it. Not to mention all the new abilities you use in the game. This game is really fun to play and is by far way better than Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga. But it does have its downfall. The game is a little bit to easy when it comes to the boss fights and little battles you play inbetween. This is coming from a player who knows what he is talking about because the last boss battle is a lot harder than all the others. All in all this is a great game to play for any Mario fan out there.… Expand
  20. CoreyS.
    May 20, 2006
    7
    A great game, but it's not better than the orginal in any way.
  21. AlejandroG.
    Aug 10, 2006
    7
    Moderately long, with almost no replayability, yet fun and (a bit) challenging. The final battle takes almost 2 hours to finish.
  22. MasterC.
    Dec 23, 2005
    10
    this game is da bomb! this RPG isnt just RPG, it has everything all in one. I gotta tell u: the nintendo DS is getting way better!
  23. CraigT.
    Apr 4, 2006
    10
    One of the best RPG Game I have ever played in a while and I'll still play it even when I beat it. A worthy buy!!!
  24. LukeJ
    Mar 10, 2009
    10
    This game had spectacular gameplay, hilarious cutscenes, a varied array of many characters, and many hours of extreme fun. Any DS owner should definently get this, and if you dont own a DS, get one, just for this game.
  25. DonaldD.
    Dec 1, 2005
    9
    Super fun to play. The concept is great, the only problem I have with this game is that I dont have enough time to play it. Nintendo tends to know how to make games.
  26. LilyP.
    Dec 22, 2005
    10
    This game is amazing. Everything from the story to the graphics exceeded my expectations. Plus the babies are just so darn cute.
  27. HunterR.
    Dec 27, 2005
    8
    A flawed but fun RPG. While I didn't find it as funny as many of the reviewers, the cute graphics and story will fill that nostalgic niche for players of the original Super Mario RPG. The biggest problem is the complete disregard of the DS's unique hardware. The second screen is used as a map, which was probably a result of developers saying "Okay, we've got the game done. A flawed but fun RPG. While I didn't find it as funny as many of the reviewers, the cute graphics and story will fill that nostalgic niche for players of the original Super Mario RPG. The biggest problem is the complete disregard of the DS's unique hardware. The second screen is used as a map, which was probably a result of developers saying "Okay, we've got the game done. now, what should we do with that stupid extra screen?" It's not very innovative or original, but Partners in Time is a solid RPG for Nintendo DS, and is worth your time and money.… Expand
  28. TonyG.
    Dec 3, 2005
    10
    very creative, amazing gameplay, funny dialouge. must buy this season. nintendo, hats off to you guys for amazing titles! would love super smash bros. for the ds. It would be amazing on dual screens. would destroy jump superstars. 3 cheers for super smash bros. ds!
  29. AndrewC.
    Jan 10, 2007
    6
    As a huge fan of the original Mario & Luigi (one of the very best GBA games ever!), I was surprised by how little its sequel did right. The battle system works all right, though almost every boss battle is way too drawn out and easy. The dialogue and story are both rather weak in comparison to the original, and the adventure is rather linear. There are absolutely no sidequests, so the As a huge fan of the original Mario & Luigi (one of the very best GBA games ever!), I was surprised by how little its sequel did right. The battle system works all right, though almost every boss battle is way too drawn out and easy. The dialogue and story are both rather weak in comparison to the original, and the adventure is rather linear. There are absolutely no sidequests, so the value of the game is nil. Really, really disappointing. Could have been more, but the satisfying moments are few and far between. Shame...… Expand
  30. MichaelA.
    Mar 29, 2006
    9
    This game is so awesome! The graphics are creative, the story is interesting, the humor is very funny (and will leave a smile on your face), and plot twists are at their best. The only downside I have about this game is that it's not long enough.
  31. NonyaN.
    Jul 16, 2006
    10
    The best DS game out there.
  32. SteveR.
    Aug 15, 2006
    10
    This is a game to end quite a few games. The entire thing was hilarious, to the point that it doesn't get old. Plus, the twists in the plot. I never would have seen it coming. I say, if you don't like this game, then screw you! This game was worth every penny! Anyway, it's one of those RPG's that you would hate yourself if you hated it.
  33. StevenC.
    May 29, 2007
    7
    Having not played the previous (and supposedly fairly similar) Mario & Luigi GBA game, I bought this game with an open mind. The game focuses around Mario & Luigi, and their "partners in time" mario and luigi babies. Going round the slightly loony plot (going back in time here and there, killing alien mushrooms called shroobs) There are plenty of puzzles involving both pairs of bros, or Having not played the previous (and supposedly fairly similar) Mario & Luigi GBA game, I bought this game with an open mind. The game focuses around Mario & Luigi, and their "partners in time" mario and luigi babies. Going round the slightly loony plot (going back in time here and there, killing alien mushrooms called shroobs) There are plenty of puzzles involving both pairs of bros, or just one of the pairs, although for the most part they're trivial and there's no other way you can do it. The battle system is turn based fighting that properly rewards good reactions speeds and quick thinking, be it attacking (chaining your special item attacks to produce the most damage you possibly can, which is tough on the final real high damage items) or defending (counter attacks or simply evading attacks from the enemies). The boss fights, as with most of the enemies, is merely a case of working out the attacks and then trying to capitalize on taking the least damage possible, and all fights are fairly simple in the game. It will likely take you less than 20 hours to complete the game if you know what you're doing, and the unfortunate thing is there's no real replay value in the game. Still, an ejoyable title that gives you smiles along the way with its mild humour. And by the way - if you can get a string of "great" hits on the Mix and CopyFlowers, you're a better man than me.… Expand
  34. PippaS
    Dec 31, 2009
    9
    This game is unique in the fact it has baby marios and luigis and lots of funny and entertaining new charctor forms and ideas. The only not so good thing is some bits and challenges are a tiny bit easy.
  35. OneResolve
    Dec 26, 2005
    8
    This is a great game!!! However, i feel that it doesnt compare to paper mario and mario rpg (the only other mario rpg styled games i have played). still, this game makes great use of the dual screens. the game seems more focused on constant battling and ever changing patterns. you really only use the touchscreen once or twice. Very innovative and fun. I played the game almost constantly This is a great game!!! However, i feel that it doesnt compare to paper mario and mario rpg (the only other mario rpg styled games i have played). still, this game makes great use of the dual screens. the game seems more focused on constant battling and ever changing patterns. you really only use the touchscreen once or twice. Very innovative and fun. I played the game almost constantly and it took me 21 hours to finish, which is a good deal of length. I felt this game could use more towns and more NPCs to interact with. By far the best rpg on the DS(lunar is pretty terrible.) Could have been better, thats why im giving this game an 8.5 (if meta would let me.)… Expand
  36. TorA.
    Nov 24, 2007
    10
    It lets you have fun and helps your imagination. it is not a wast of money!
  37. Flippers4u
    Jul 25, 2013
    9
    This game is just as amazing as the first game, and adding two more characters, Baby Mario and Luigi, to the mix simply adds to the fun and endless possibilities. The story involves aliens, which I would have never seen in a Nintendo game ever. It has been a while since I last played the game and have forgotten most of the game mechanics, but the turn-base combat system is back and betterThis game is just as amazing as the first game, and adding two more characters, Baby Mario and Luigi, to the mix simply adds to the fun and endless possibilities. The story involves aliens, which I would have never seen in a Nintendo game ever. It has been a while since I last played the game and have forgotten most of the game mechanics, but the turn-base combat system is back and better than ever, with more ways to attack enemies with Bro Items. The humor still exists in the game, and the visuals are still gorgeous.… Expand
  38. xZippy
    Jan 18, 2016
    6
    It's a decent sequel in the Mario and Luigi series, but nowhere near as good as the other ones in the series. The story is weak, confusing and rushed. There aren't many interesting characters. The combat mechanics are clever, but some points in the game are extremely hard and packed with artificial difficulty. It's good for one playthrough, but doesn't have enough appeal for any more than that.
  39. iloveFFC
    Aug 17, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The story is just drop-jaw amazing, by far the best out of the series, and the main antagonists, The Shroobs, are my favorite enemies in the Mario series HANDS-DOWN. Sure they go a little War of the Worlds on the Mushroom Kingdom by killing toads for their life force to power their epic flying saucers, but nobody else in the series has ever been that evil! Anyway, the gameplay gets a little annoying at times because Baby Mario and Baby Luigi are very weak and the Mario bros. aren't around when I need them the most for baby fights. Some of the bosses near the end of the game are extremely challenging but fun, as were the puzzles. Its much more serious than the rest of the series, probably because of the alien invasion, something I don't mind, but it's not as funny as the first. Final score is 8.5 for me, but I'll give it a 9 because I'm feeling generous today.… Expand
  40. wegie125
    Nov 14, 2017
    10
    This game definitely has to be one of the most defining of my childhood. This game had just the right amount of challenge to where I didn't have to be so frustrated that I wanted to quit but also hard enough that I wasn't just breezing through the game. This game was so magical when it came out and I still enjoy going back and playing it to this day. Nothing matches the atmosphere, theThis game definitely has to be one of the most defining of my childhood. This game had just the right amount of challenge to where I didn't have to be so frustrated that I wanted to quit but also hard enough that I wasn't just breezing through the game. This game was so magical when it came out and I still enjoy going back and playing it to this day. Nothing matches the atmosphere, the music, the characters. It was all so original. I hope they one day remake this game just like they have done with the first of the mario and luigi series. The entire story of this game is so rich and original. This will definitely go down as one of the greatest games of all time for me… Expand
  41. sonic4president
    Nov 15, 2014
    8
    An improvement upon the first game and probably my favourite in the series although I haven't played dream team bros yet. However I feel like this series will never be worth a 9 or 10 unless dream team proves otherwise.
  42. marineunit
    Dec 27, 2014
    5
    Battling in this game is ridiculously difficult and repetitive. Some of the areas and battles just drag on and on and on. Some enemies can take 50% of your health in one hit, spam over 5 attacks in one turn, and heal like crazy. I don't know why Nintendo decided to make this game so difficult and long.

    As for the overworld parts of the game, it's pretty fun. There are some interesting    Battling in this game is ridiculously difficult and repetitive. Some of the areas and battles just drag on and on and on. Some enemies can take 50% of your health in one hit, spam over 5 attacks in one turn, and heal like crazy. I don't know why Nintendo decided to make this game so difficult and long.

    As for the overworld parts of the game, it's pretty fun. There are some interesting puzzles and neat moves the 4 characters can use to navigate around the world.    … Expand
  43. Gygar
    Feb 3, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Man...this is one of the best mario and luigi games i have played, next to BIS of course. The reason i like this is because it adds an new gamepaly element to it, being able to use the two new buttons the DS gave us, and worked it into the plot, which is another part i like, its darker than any of the other titles, and im not joking, the first area you go to in the past, the shroobs, KILL the mario brothers, and the forest, toads have their life force drained and drunk by a shroobified wiggler...one of the toads are drained before your eyes! But in spote of those moments we are presented with the charm that this series is known for… Expand
  44. Diegochocho
    Jul 6, 2018
    8
    Primero juego que jugué de la saga, buenos escenarios con buen acompañamiento de músicas, y buena cantidad de jefes con buenas mecánicas.
  45. robertoiglesias
    Nov 10, 2019
    10
    I love the gameplay, story, characters, and the humor of this fun game. Mario and Luigi is truly fantastic
  46. StathisTsasakos
    Jul 17, 2017
    9
    Unlike the first part of Mario and Luigi Series... the second game in my opinion is one of the best parts in the series...the amazing DS graphics...the soundtrack(especially the Final Battle's music)...and the story are really attractive...It's the first time I play a game of my favourite Game Developer (Nintendo) in which i have to defeat not one...or two...or ten...but a whole Ugly andUnlike the first part of Mario and Luigi Series... the second game in my opinion is one of the best parts in the series...the amazing DS graphics...the soundtrack(especially the Final Battle's music)...and the story are really attractive...It's the first time I play a game of my favourite Game Developer (Nintendo) in which i have to defeat not one...or two...or ten...but a whole Ugly and Evil alien race...the Shroobs...and the game's finale is really unexpectable and surprising if u aren't spoiled and if u are playing it for first time...… Expand
  47. pikminexplorer
    Aug 28, 2017
    10
    A fantastic game in the way of story, plot, soundtrack, and battle. This game is definitely worth your money. I'd rate it the 2nd best in the series, behind only Superstar Saga.
  48. CyberRobotnix
    Mar 5, 2018
    10
    This is the best game in the M&L series. It has the best musics, it has the best story, it has the best mechanics and it is overall a very fun game.

    Definitely try it out, trust me you won't regret it.
  49. MovieReviewer45
    Jul 4, 2018
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game differs from other critically-acclaimed Mario games due to it's consistent and memorable story, exciting boss battle scenes, and it's super great, epic, final boss battle at the ending.

    This is one of my favorite Mario game, I repeated playing this game 3 times already in the past. The graphics are okay, the addition of new power-ups are good. The locations and new places presented in this game are colorful and vibrant which adds credit to the graphics quality.

    A notable feature this game delivers is it's addition of a character stat level. Just like Pokemon games, Partners in Time have included stat levels in the four main characters of the game such as defense, attack, cache, and others. This is a great installment because it provides users' enjoyment in upgrading the 4 character's strength, speed, and vitality in defeating bosses much like Pokemon games can provide.

    The ending music of the battle with Elder Princess Shroob is super fantastic. I never heard that of a epic background music of all the games I played. Her transformation image, HP levels, and her stat upgrades are a blast. Considering her seemingly immortal evolved-form into a tentacle creature has an awesome design. Not to mentioned, the creators have added a feature in defeating here by destroying a certain part of her body just to remove that sort of immortality within here is also unique and great. Without destroying that portion of her transformed form, all damages are equal to 1 totally independent of Mario company's attacks,

    One other thing that gives me excitement in playing this game is the scope of the destruction that the antagonists, which are the Shroob aliens, shows us throughout the game; this gives a sort of realism of the destruction, loss of life, and mayhem when an extraterrestrial invasion happens to a peaceful land. The endings are nice as well. The time travel concept here is a great addition to the plot.

    Rating: 4.5/5 -> 9/10 stars    … Expand
  50. TheUberMann
    Jul 6, 2018
    10
    A fantastic game. By far one of my all-time-favorites. The look is so nice to look at and gives you nostalgic chills if you look at it every time. The story is excellent, in my opinion. The gameplay is pretty much alright. Near the end of the game it feels like there was a small lack of gameplay mechanics and new stuff overall, but that's something I can live with. The soundtrack is alsoA fantastic game. By far one of my all-time-favorites. The look is so nice to look at and gives you nostalgic chills if you look at it every time. The story is excellent, in my opinion. The gameplay is pretty much alright. Near the end of the game it feels like there was a small lack of gameplay mechanics and new stuff overall, but that's something I can live with. The soundtrack is also really good, especially if you come closer to the ending of the game. The difficulty of the game is pretty good actually. Sometimes it's harder, sometimes it's too easy. Overall enjoyable. I prefer it that you can buy/find the special attacks. I personally really hated this whole "BP-points"-stuff.… Expand
  51. greninjaX
    Jan 28, 2022
    8
    a great adventure all around, but doesn't quite live up to super star saga due to a few issues. special moves are now items, and the babies are quite annoying. there's also some pacing issues. still a fun adventure, but i can see why the remakes skipped this one in favor of the superior "bowser's inside story"
  52. SuperInkLink64
    Dec 2, 2018
    9
    I simply do not understand the hate for this game. I love it. Being my second favorite of the Mario and Luigi series, it definitely has a lot. The music is phenomenal, especially considering it's a DS game. The story is hands down the darkest of any Mario game, and actually had me trying to guess what to happen next. While the whole time travel thing is a BIT confusing, it still broughtI simply do not understand the hate for this game. I love it. Being my second favorite of the Mario and Luigi series, it definitely has a lot. The music is phenomenal, especially considering it's a DS game. The story is hands down the darkest of any Mario game, and actually had me trying to guess what to happen next. While the whole time travel thing is a BIT confusing, it still brought the babies, which are a great addition to both the combat system and puzzles. The biggest complaint I've heard is that Bros. items are consumables, but I found that easier to handle than the BP system personally. Overall, Partners in Time is a fantastic entry in the Mario and Luigi game series, with its own set of quirks and humor.… Expand
  53. Ghost_the_ds
    Aug 17, 2019
    10
    Mario and Luigi: Partners in time is without a doubt one of the greatest games on the DS and if you haven’t picked it up yet, you are missing out, it has fantastic controls and pacing and playing as the baby’s are a ton of fun, the puzzles are a great mix of repetitive and new and the final boss kept me on the edge of my sit the whole way though. The length of the game is perfect and it’sMario and Luigi: Partners in time is without a doubt one of the greatest games on the DS and if you haven’t picked it up yet, you are missing out, it has fantastic controls and pacing and playing as the baby’s are a ton of fun, the puzzles are a great mix of repetitive and new and the final boss kept me on the edge of my sit the whole way though. The length of the game is perfect and it’s got a great sense of humour. Overall if you haven’t played it before you owe yourself...… Expand
  54. Meepmorp
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. THIS IS THE BEST MARIO AND LUIGI GAME sure Dream team and super star saga are great games but in my opinion this is my favorite … Expand
  55. Bcshiguemichi
    Jan 14, 2022
    9
    One of my favorites Mario and Luigi. The pixel design if fantastic with several visual effects. The ways to improve power are fantastic and the story has always some pivoting.
  56. vincethelegofan
    Mar 1, 2020
    9
    personally, this game is my least favorite in the series. don't get me wrong i love all of the M&L games! it's just that the basic formula is completely differrent and it worked out for the worst. however, where it lacks in gameplay, it makes up in everything else. if it wasn't for bowser's inside story, i'd say that partners in time has hands down THE best story. the music, OOOH, THEpersonally, this game is my least favorite in the series. don't get me wrong i love all of the M&L games! it's just that the basic formula is completely differrent and it worked out for the worst. however, where it lacks in gameplay, it makes up in everything else. if it wasn't for bowser's inside story, i'd say that partners in time has hands down THE best story. the music, OOOH, THE MUSIC. whoever composed the music deserves a RAISE. like, seriously, after playing the game again, i just wanna listen to the entire soundtrack. but enough about music. the game is worth your time, just not as good as the others.… Expand
  57. JavierFR
    Mar 4, 2020
    9
    Aunque la mayoría no piense lo mismo,en la saga RPG de Mario & Luigi,es uno de los mejores,por no decir el mejor de ellos:
    -Una trama más seria,y no se centra en salvar a Peach,como la mayoría de los juegos.
    -Una jugabilidad diferente,permitiendo cotrolar a 4 personajes simultaneamente,tanto fuera como dentro de los combates. -Muy buena banda sonora,consiguiendo establecer el tema del    Aunque la mayoría no piense lo mismo,en la saga RPG de Mario & Luigi,es uno de los mejores,por no decir el mejor de ellos:
    -Una trama más seria,y no se centra en salvar a Peach,como la mayoría de los juegos.
    -Una jugabilidad diferente,permitiendo cotrolar a 4 personajes simultaneamente,tanto fuera como dentro de los combates.
    -Muy buena banda sonora,consiguiendo establecer el tema del momento.
    -Es el juego más corto,durando aproximadamente unas 10-15 horas.
    -Unos gráficos mejorados comparándolo con su anterior entrega.

    Además,este juego se encuentra en la consola virtual de WII U a 9,99 €,aunque recomiendo jugarlo en la Nintendo DS por la portabilidad.    … Expand
  58. Shroobit
    Aug 2, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. El juego está muy infravalorado, su OST es hermoso y la historia también:((… Expand
  59. hector_bcn98
    Nov 7, 2022
    8
    A mi modo de ver, la entrega de la saga más interesante. La inclusión de los bebés ofrecía una mayor variante de ataques. Todo un acierto.
  60. BeeSting1
    Jan 1, 2021
    6
    Some visual issues hold it back.

    Good - transition between lower screen and top screen when controlling the two duos is fast and seamless. Unlike in Bowser's inside story where the transition takes a few seconds - the battles make use of all four buttons which makes it much more challenging, especially the Bros attack. - being able to separate the past Mario Brothers and the    Some visual issues hold it back.

    Good

    - transition between lower screen and top screen when controlling the two duos is fast and seamless. Unlike in Bowser's inside story where the transition takes a few seconds

    - the battles make use of all four buttons which makes it much more challenging, especially the Bros attack.

    - being able to separate the past Mario Brothers and the present Mario Brothers, and control them separately is pretty interesting.

    - the partner battle mechanics and puzzles were really creative. Having to hit extra buttons to perform attacks made the gameplay more challenging.

    - the dialogue is charming and funny as with all the other Mario and Luigi games.

    - enemies are very creative.

    Bad

    - having to buy bros attack means they aren't readily available for me to use if I run out while in the past world. I would have to go back into the future to buy it in a shop.

    - too much lag before the hammer counter. makes it hard to time the counter

    - shadows are difficult to see during battles making it difficult to tell which brother the attack is going for.

    - certain parts of the level is hard to tell whether it is on a higher level or lower level. This probably has to do with the limitations of the DS hardware.    … Expand
  61. WhoDaDev
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    Easily the best in the Mario & Luigi RPG series. Much better than Bowser's Inside Story.
  62. subspace87
    May 10, 2023
    10
    This was such a wonderful game to play as a kid. It was one of my first ever exposures to a wonderfully crafted story with exciting and absolutely incredible plot twists. For a Mario game, this game really hits the bell for me. I absolutely adore this game even to this day. The battle gameplay is super innovative and really fun as well. Also, the art and graphics are amazing for a DSThis was such a wonderful game to play as a kid. It was one of my first ever exposures to a wonderfully crafted story with exciting and absolutely incredible plot twists. For a Mario game, this game really hits the bell for me. I absolutely adore this game even to this day. The battle gameplay is super innovative and really fun as well. Also, the art and graphics are amazing for a DS game! It looks absolutely stunning! This is a must play for anyone who enjoys a good RPG, and especially for anyone who's played the other Mario RPG games and hasn't picked this one up yet.… Expand
  63. RVamp101
    May 14, 2023
    9
    Mario and Luigi: Partner's in time is an amazing game. Perfect? Hell nah. The use of items is definitely something i would prefer over how the other games in this series does it. But the strategy that comes with those games are FAR better then how partner's in time does it.
    The bosses are unique, the cutscenes are amazing. Fantastic game over all!
  64. TheDuner13
    Aug 6, 2022
    9
    goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood
  65. FireBroFilms
    Aug 15, 2022
    7
    ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎
  66. Webosxdxdxddd
    Aug 30, 2023
    10
    By far the best Mario & Luigi game. Original bosses, colorful yet dark backgrounds and story, adorable cutscenes with the babies, and just a solid Mario & Luigi game overall.
  67. SatinFoil
    Feb 16, 2023
    10
    Really fun Mario and Luigi game! Highly recommend! The baby mechanics are really fun as well! Also, remember all those attacks like fire flower, and green/red shell? Well in this game, you can deal more damage to enemies if you press the X or Y button right before the shell hits the enemy. There's also more mechanics added to other bros attacks in favor of the baby feature. I DID mentionReally fun Mario and Luigi game! Highly recommend! The baby mechanics are really fun as well! Also, remember all those attacks like fire flower, and green/red shell? Well in this game, you can deal more damage to enemies if you press the X or Y button right before the shell hits the enemy. There's also more mechanics added to other bros attacks in favor of the baby feature. I DID mention fire flower as well, so I guess I'll say what that does in this game too. Well, pressing X or Y instead of A and B makes it shoot higher and get farther enemies..? I'm not 100% sure, so take that with a grain of salt (which I think is the correct saying).… Expand
  68. Yojimbo2015
    May 21, 2023
    7
    A kind of RPG/platform hybrid simplified to its basic elements for younger players, but the sense of humour and fun presentation may appeal to the nostalgic looking to rekindle the magic of the old SNES days.
  69. Pilest
    Jul 3, 2023
    7
    I want to like this game but it kinda sucks. Just kinda. The bros. items are cool but too cheesable. The art style just looks off like they were trying to enhance the sprites from the first game. I didn’t get interested in the story. Do I even like this game. 5/10

Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Best DS Game of 2005
6
#6 Most Discussed DS Game of 2005
7
#7 Most Shared DS Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 45 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 45
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 45
  3. Negative: 0 out of 45
  1. Play Magazine
    85
    I don't often get a good belly laugh from a video game, but then not many games pack the humorous charm of Mario and Luigi 2... [Nov p.99]
  2. Nintendo Power
    90
    A worthy follow-up to "Superstar Saga," and the first great RPG on the DS. [Jan 2006, p.110]
  3. Game Informer
    83
    It may not be the most emotionally complex RPG on the market, but it's solid entertainment with a quirky twist. [Dec 2005, p.187]
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