Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling

 Switch
User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 133 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 110 out of 133
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 133
  3. Negative: 17 out of 133

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  1. M1sfiT
    Sep 3, 2023
    7
    Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaameeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees!!!!!!!!! bug fables
  2. Lenny_
    Jul 12, 2023
    0
    i wrote a whole comprehensive review before meta critic just deleted it for no reason, and i'm not wasting my time writing that again, so instead i'll just say...

    The art is ugly, the writing and story telling is bad, the combat is lacking, and the game is overall just overrated nostalgia bait.
  3. ORD3R
    May 20, 2023
    10
    I can’t recommend this game enough. Is it perfect? Not at all. The medals could use some tweaking, and a few of the side quests are just downright stupid, but everything else is done so well I don’t care.
  4. Spencerperior
    Dec 19, 2022
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bug Fables is an attempt to copy another famous Adventure RPG. Beware of games in which almost every review mentions one other game not even in the same series or developer etc. The concept in game mechanics is great! As you would hope from a game that copies another. Turn-based action battling is exciting and engaging. This is one of the few places where Bug Fables excels. Unfortunate technical issues plaque the adventure. There are so many "bugs" the game is hardly playable on Switch. Multiple times in the 7 hours I could stand, a cut-scene was supposed to run, but never did. We were stuck sitting on a screen, with no option to press any button. I had to quit the game and come back, but of course; all progress had been lost. This problem is compounded by the game’s strict save system. Which I normally don’t mind. I, like many older gamers, remember when games were extremely punishing and we kind of just got used to it. But if the game breaks and I have to quit and reopen it, losing so much progress is unacceptable. I tried to power through but eventually enough is enough. This game takes your money and wastes your time. I wouldn’t be too hasty to blame the hardware either. I’ve cleared nearly 70 games on the Switch and never once ran into a game with such frequent issues. Even Skyrim crashes less often. Skyrim! Characters have over-world actions they execute in order to puzzle-solve your way through dungeons and/or zones. There is an enormous design flaw, however. After performing their action, the characters will always change direction to their default direction. So, you cannot perform the same action in the same direction twice in a row. Unless, coincidentally, it is in that character's default direction (a 1/4 chance). I don’t have to tell you, that is unnecessary and makes dungeon crawling needlessly frustrating and tedious. I mean, honestly, how can you program that into a game? Was this never beta-tested? The music is pretty solid but seems to rip off other Nintendo songs. Close your eyes and listen to the soundtrack for yourself. Veterans of popular Nintendo franchises should spot the suspiciously similar melodies. The Snakemouth Den theme is the most obvious offender, ripping the melody note-for-note from the Tail Cave theme in Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. The art is pretty uninspired, graphics are mediocre. Somewhat standard for indie games, but certainly worse compared to Cuphead, Hollow Knight, or even Hyper Light Drifter and Dead Cells just to name a few.… Expand
  5. Bunnyoven
    Dec 9, 2022
    9
    Bug fables from the very beginning is a beautiful love letter to Paper Mario, from the art style to the music and everything in between it brings me back to what I remember that game being on the Nintendo 64. That's what makes this such an amazing game it makes me feel like I'm a kid again, but there are so many quality of life features that I am not even going to begin to try to listBug fables from the very beginning is a beautiful love letter to Paper Mario, from the art style to the music and everything in between it brings me back to what I remember that game being on the Nintendo 64. That's what makes this such an amazing game it makes me feel like I'm a kid again, but there are so many quality of life features that I am not even going to begin to try to list them. If you're looking for a light turn-based RPG with a pretty great story and really fun writing then I would suggest this game for your next play.… Expand
  6. Third_Era
    Oct 11, 2022
    9
    Better than Paper Mario, but not quite as good as Paper Mario: Thousand Year Door. Great cast of characters and a well done story. Includes a Hard Mode if you want a more difficult challenge.
  7. ophone
    Aug 1, 2022
    7
    A cute game with likeable characters.
    But it suffers of a few badly implemented mechanics I thought wouldn't exist anymore nowadays.
    Three examples: - The approximative controls when interacting with the environment, especially when using the bee's weapon. - The problem you can't buy items in bulk. You have to restart the buying process for every single unit of an item. - The missing    A cute game with likeable characters.
    But it suffers of a few badly implemented mechanics I thought wouldn't exist anymore nowadays.
    Three examples:
    - The approximative controls when interacting with the environment, especially when using the bee's weapon.
    - The problem you can't buy items in bulk. You have to restart the buying process for every single unit of an item.
    - The missing of a combat restart option. When you're in a combat and you see in advance you'll lose it, you whether have to restart the whole game to get back to the last save spot or wait until every member of the team died.

    Although it's got those technical anachronisms it's still a nice game to play.    … Expand
  8. stupidopinion
    Jul 20, 2022
    9
    A pretty great turn based RPG with some great characters and a fun story that prods at the imagination. The combat system is good, providing a neat challenge both in strategy and actual gameplay. It is very derivative of the old Paper Mario games, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I do feel more could be done to distinguish its combat from those titles. The humor and worldbuildingA pretty great turn based RPG with some great characters and a fun story that prods at the imagination. The combat system is good, providing a neat challenge both in strategy and actual gameplay. It is very derivative of the old Paper Mario games, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I do feel more could be done to distinguish its combat from those titles. The humor and worldbuilding are great and feel unique to this world, and the plot twists that amp up toward the latter half of the game make for an experience I won't soon forget. There are some graphical issues and some issues with pacing, but it's a surprisingly great first game for Moonsprout and I'm excited for their next one.

    40 hours to complete and Vi is the best    … Expand
  9. nz500
    Jun 27, 2022
    10
    One of my favorite games ever! A perfect love letter to the original Paper Mario series.
  10. ResetButton
    Jun 5, 2022
    7
    Bug Fables is pleasant all around, but it really loses steam. The chapters all go on a little too long and things become tedious. I frequently found myself thinking, “oh no, not again” when activities/tasks would arise. I enjoyed the game, but the tediousness really brought the overall experience down.
  11. TheLinkgirl
    May 17, 2022
    9
    Bug Fables is a game that takes a simple concept, playing as bugs, and perfectly demonstrates how well one can execute such an idea. The giant world feels brilliant, taking place entirely in a garden, while you're so small that sand pits become sprawling deserts. Combat feels brilliant, as the characters compliment each other perfectly, with strengths and weaknesses for every situation.Bug Fables is a game that takes a simple concept, playing as bugs, and perfectly demonstrates how well one can execute such an idea. The giant world feels brilliant, taking place entirely in a garden, while you're so small that sand pits become sprawling deserts. Combat feels brilliant, as the characters compliment each other perfectly, with strengths and weaknesses for every situation. The characters are also a joy to witness in the story and world, and make every moment of this game feel great from the writing alone. It's difficult to properly sum up a game that you love, but for me Bug Fables is a near perfect execution of what Paper Mario attempted to do.… Expand
  12. GilArenas
    May 1, 2022
    0
    Bug Fables: The Everlasting **** This game is so boring it feels like its everlasting. There are more bugs in this game than Richard Parker growls at Pi through 227 days at sea. Heck, there's more bugs in this game than Macbeth kills people. Its kinda buggy. The only smidge of positivity in this game is that the main character is a wasp, and they may be a common ancestor to the GeospizaBug Fables: The Everlasting **** This game is so boring it feels like its everlasting. There are more bugs in this game than Richard Parker growls at Pi through 227 days at sea. Heck, there's more bugs in this game than Macbeth kills people. Its kinda buggy. The only smidge of positivity in this game is that the main character is a wasp, and they may be a common ancestor to the Geospiza Fortis. This game is too buggy for me and gets a 0, just like the Biology class average.… Expand
  13. Okie_Doki
    Apr 19, 2022
    0
    Way too buggy. I'd rather be in biology class and learning about the finches on the Galapagos. Darwins HMS beagle is 100X more interesting than anything in stupid fug bables. Bug fables clearly had some recessive alleles in it, and they weren't the good kind. If I were to draw a punnet square for this AFWUL game, it'd be bad game dominant allele, with stupid moth recessive allele. MothivaWay too buggy. I'd rather be in biology class and learning about the finches on the Galapagos. Darwins HMS beagle is 100X more interesting than anything in stupid fug bables. Bug fables clearly had some recessive alleles in it, and they weren't the good kind. If I were to draw a punnet square for this AFWUL game, it'd be bad game dominant allele, with stupid moth recessive allele. Mothiva took away 3 points by themselves. Don't buy this game unless you're trying to punish your biology class.… Expand
  14. TSNintendogamer
    Apr 1, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. omg, it's become one of my favorite games of all time. I love the music. I listen to it almost every day. It's very much like paper mario which I love all while it's doing it's own thing. The story is great as the characters are great along with a plot twist. Lastly they fixed some things that the paper mario games had like back tracking and I like how there are side quests in the game too. Just watch out for the 7th chapter. Very nerve racking.… Expand
  15. Elite_Institute
    Mar 5, 2022
    9
    "All in all, Bug Fables is an excellent title that I would recommend to everyone. RPG fans, particular those who like Paper Mario should especially grab this at their earliest opportunity. The game is so good, however, that I am pretty sure non RPG fans like myself will also have a damn good time. It may not be very replayable, as is the case with the genre, but there’s certainly a lot of"All in all, Bug Fables is an excellent title that I would recommend to everyone. RPG fans, particular those who like Paper Mario should especially grab this at their earliest opportunity. The game is so good, however, that I am pretty sure non RPG fans like myself will also have a damn good time. It may not be very replayable, as is the case with the genre, but there’s certainly a lot of bang for your bug (sorry)."

    https://theeliteinstitute.net/2021/01/07/bug-fables-the-everlasting-sapling/    … Expand
  16. fanmadeendings
    Feb 15, 2022
    9
    It takes everything that makes TTYD good and evolves the heck out of it! Love the narrative and the characters, and the new battle system is so much fun!
  17. Herovero
    Jan 15, 2022
    10
    1. Without a doubt, bug fables is an indie game that surpassed the quality of Nintendo games, many fans assume it as a paper mario rpg and I completely agree their nonsense lmfao
    2. It's pretty cool to see how the main menu screen added more characters as you advance through the story
    3. The menu codes are well-founded for pros who seek for tougher challenges, MYSTERY? is my fav of all    1. Without a doubt, bug fables is an indie game that surpassed the quality of Nintendo games, many fans assume it as a paper mario rpg and I completely agree their nonsense lmfao
    2. It's pretty cool to see how the main menu screen added more characters as you advance through the story
    3. The menu codes are well-founded for pros who seek for tougher challenges, MYSTERY? is my fav of all because the location of medals are randomized which lead to infinite replay value
    4. Vi, Kabbu and Leif interactive conversations > Goombario and Goombella's overworld ability
    5. Front back line gimmicks and relay system
    6. Hard mode medal, there's no need to say more
    7. Backtracking from side quests aren't as annoying as PM series
    8. The card system, I played it over 50 times
    9. Boss rush and 50 rounds trial
    10. You can unlock a pet and name it Chomp
    11. Promising originality (characters, enemies, world themes, etc)
    12. Chapter 5 Wasp kingdom, Chapter 7 ice puzzles and arcade games are the only flaws
    13. Ummmmmm out of context, TOK sucks compared to it    … Expand
  18. zenn22
    Nov 23, 2021
    0
    How can you release a game that constantly stutters?
  19. tonymagz
    Oct 19, 2021
    9
    I am a MASSIVE Paper Mario 64 and TTYD fan. Replayed both of them many times. Like many I have been more than disappointed with what Nintendo has done with that series.
    Bug Fables came out of left field for me. I had somehow never heard of it but suddenly it was released on the Switch, and it popped up on my radar.
    This game is a spiritual successor in every sense of the phrase. It takes    I am a MASSIVE Paper Mario 64 and TTYD fan. Replayed both of them many times. Like many I have been more than disappointed with what Nintendo has done with that series.
    Bug Fables came out of left field for me. I had somehow never heard of it but suddenly it was released on the Switch, and it popped up on my radar.
    This game is a spiritual successor in every sense of the phrase. It takes many of their mechanics and does them even better. It has really great lore, and wonderful story telling. Instead of many partners, you're just three bugs which does allow a lot more focus on their individual stories and arcs.
    Battles can get HARD. I beat the whole thing on hard mode but had plenty of trouble in doing so. The medals (badges) allow you to make some pretty elaborate builds.
    I plan on going back for the side quests and to complete the optional bosses.
    If I have to nitpick, the controls are a bit awkward at times in the overworld, like with Vi's boomerang. Also, I like the soundtrack but the instruments feel very MIDI-ey at times. I feel like taking the same soundtrack with some better instrument MIDI could have been better.
    Overall I adored this game and would recommend it to any Paper Mario or Mario & Luigi fan.    … Expand
  20. iMustang
    Oct 12, 2021
    8
    Bug Fables delivers on the exact promise it stands for - Paper Mario 3. This game is truly the sequel we've waited nearly two decades for as it takes all the concepts of Paper Mario and pushes them to the next step, expanding upon the formula we know and love. The developers clearly knew their target audience as well; not only does this game call back to a nostalgic formula, it was createdBug Fables delivers on the exact promise it stands for - Paper Mario 3. This game is truly the sequel we've waited nearly two decades for as it takes all the concepts of Paper Mario and pushes them to the next step, expanding upon the formula we know and love. The developers clearly knew their target audience as well; not only does this game call back to a nostalgic formula, it was created in such a way that the difficulty itself would have aged with it's audience. This game can be downright brutal at times, yet always remains fair and gives it's player a chance to succeed. In many ways this game is even better than any Paper Mario with a heavier focus on story and lore, a vibrant cast of characters with great depth and growth, and a large amount of side-quests and optional areas to explore. You can spend anywhere between 25-100 hours playing this game depending on how much you want to put into it, and it always feels rewarding to play.

    If I have any complaints, aside from the difficulty curve, it's that some of the best parts of this story is hidden. To learn about one of the main character's pasts requires a side quest line, which leads to the story focusing on this plot point for a bit until they shelve it unless you want to pursue the answers on your own. Same with resolving the plots of two other characters, which is a shame because they're more interesting than the main narrative, so I would have rather they incorporated those journeys into the main plot. There is also a lot of unresolved plot points, which may or may not be explained in the hidden lore books (which notably I did not collect), but either way it feels odd to end a journey with so many unanswered questions. Also sometimes the witty dialogue the characters say disappear too quickly, which is a shame to those of us who don't read very fast. These complaints are very minor in the grand scheme of things however; at the end of the day, Bug Fables is a journey every Paper Mario fan should go on. If you can handle a greater challenge, you will be greatly rewarded.    … Expand
  21. Haman2628
    Sep 6, 2021
    10
    Well thought out game with a ton of great content. It took me 40 hours to finish the main game and all of the side quests. Excellent value!
  22. WhoDaDev
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    The best recent Paper Mario game, honestly I'm kinda worried Nintendo might send them a cease and desist this is so close to the original Paper Mario games.
  23. Denvers
    Jul 5, 2021
    10
    I've never played an RPG Paper Mario game, and yet, this game blew me away. It is an absolute masterpiece of a game. Everything you come to expect out of a great RPG is here - fantastic characters, a charming world, and a story that is surprisingly touching. I can not recommend this game more.
  24. chriswenzel
    Jul 2, 2021
    10
    Completely superior to the latest Paper Mario game in every way, Bug Fables is what Paper Mario fans wanted and sadly never got.
  25. Yeoldemillenial
    Jun 30, 2021
    10
    This game is a f*cking blast! If you loved mario rpg, paper mario and paper the 1000 year door you gonna LOVE this spiritual successor. If nintendo doesn't want release a paper mario with true rpg elements, these developers pulled something amazing off! The characters, and the fighing elements are engaging and just pure gun to play. I can recommend it to paper mario fans, rpg loverd andThis game is a f*cking blast! If you loved mario rpg, paper mario and paper the 1000 year door you gonna LOVE this spiritual successor. If nintendo doesn't want release a paper mario with true rpg elements, these developers pulled something amazing off! The characters, and the fighing elements are engaging and just pure gun to play. I can recommend it to paper mario fans, rpg loverd and gamers of all kond! Just love it… Expand
  26. CheezeeButter
    Jun 29, 2021
    10
    This games story, lore gameplay, world, side quest and all have been a damn great experience I’ve not had ever before! I cannot wait to see what else Moonsprout Games has in store!
  27. Daitya
    Jun 27, 2021
    10
    Es imposible no cogerle cariño a los protagonistas de este juego debido a la personalidad tan marcada y graciosa de cada personaje. Los diálogos entre los personajes y la repercusión que tiene en su mundo/aventura es muy fluída y natural. En cuanto a dificultad tiene una muy buena si escoges el modo difícil, te pasarás un buen rato ideando diferentes estrategias para derrotar al boss deEs imposible no cogerle cariño a los protagonistas de este juego debido a la personalidad tan marcada y graciosa de cada personaje. Los diálogos entre los personajes y la repercusión que tiene en su mundo/aventura es muy fluída y natural. En cuanto a dificultad tiene una muy buena si escoges el modo difícil, te pasarás un buen rato ideando diferentes estrategias para derrotar al boss de turno y sentirás una enorme satisfacción al vencerlo. Es un juego único donde las horas pasarán volando.… Expand
  28. danxz5
    May 11, 2021
    10
    Better than paper mario! It has better dialogue with characters, better RPG elements, a more lively world.
  29. Z3ROV
    May 8, 2021
    10
    Le doy un diez ya que aparte de ser mi segundo videojuego favorito solo está hecho por tres personas, el juego merece un gran apoyo ya que es un juegazo y no es muy conocido en la comunidad hispana.
    Tiene unos gráficos buenos, no son increíbles pero eso es lo que menos me importa a mí, la música es espectacular, de la mejor que he escuchado en un videojuego con la de Super Mario Galaxy 2,    Le doy un diez ya que aparte de ser mi segundo videojuego favorito solo está hecho por tres personas, el juego merece un gran apoyo ya que es un juegazo y no es muy conocido en la comunidad hispana.
    Tiene unos gráficos buenos, no son increíbles pero eso es lo que menos me importa a mí, la música es espectacular, de la mejor que he escuchado en un videojuego con la de Super Mario Galaxy 2, la historia es muy buena, la dificultad es asequible pero puedes ponerte más dificultad si eso deseas, la duración es de más de 40 horas y si haces todas las sidequests son más de 80 horas, hablando de ellas, son muy entretenidas y hay algunas con jefes muy desafiantes como Madame Scarlet, el juego es lo que los fans de Papel Mario piden, yo amo los 3 últimos Paper Mario pero admito que no son ni de lejos lo que la comunidad queria, si no habéis jugado este juego hacedlo ya, esta es m    … Expand
  30. Ishrod24
    Apr 18, 2021
    10
    Wow! Great game! Got it on sale for 17$ and it’s worth the price of a full game! Beautiful art style! This game did what Mario origami king couldn’t ! Awesome combat! Get the game thank me later!
  31. Hangedman84
    Jan 31, 2021
    10
    The game plunged me back to my childhood times! This is a gorgeous little gem in the game world!

    10 bugs from 10!
  32. MoonWaffle07
    Dec 30, 2020
    10
    Amazing. A loving tribute to the early Paper Mario games, and an incredible game in it’s own right. Amazing soundtrack, Story, Gameplay, and art style, this is one of, if not my favorite game of all time.
  33. YoppaChanDesu
    Dec 17, 2020
    9
    One of the best Indie games on the Switch, and fills a void in the library. Really enjoyable, would recommend to Paper Mario fans easily.
  34. Low_Ink
    Sep 15, 2020
    10
    I've never played TTYD but I can officially say this is my favorite game of all time. The only downside to this being from an indie is that it doesn't have the most detailed sprites. Yet this is still 100 times better than what Nintendo's doing. It took me about 35 hours to beat the main game in normal mode with many more to come soon. Also the music is astounding! Just check out "theyI've never played TTYD but I can officially say this is my favorite game of all time. The only downside to this being from an indie is that it doesn't have the most detailed sprites. Yet this is still 100 times better than what Nintendo's doing. It took me about 35 hours to beat the main game in normal mode with many more to come soon. Also the music is astounding! Just check out "they call him spooder".

    (Don't call him that)    … Expand
  35. ejones0208
    Sep 5, 2020
    10
    I must say if you are a fan of the first two Paper Mario games or their combat system, then this game is a must-play. The game has a beautiful soundtrack and introduces a new world never seen before. The world-building is done phenomenally and with a badge, you get at the start of the game you can play on hard mode (which is actually what the developers recommend). The difficulty change isI must say if you are a fan of the first two Paper Mario games or their combat system, then this game is a must-play. The game has a beautiful soundtrack and introduces a new world never seen before. The world-building is done phenomenally and with a badge, you get at the start of the game you can play on hard mode (which is actually what the developers recommend). The difficulty change is big enough to be felt and give a consistent challenge, but never did it feel overbearing or like enemies were damage sponges just to be hit repeatedly. This game isn't just something to relive Paper Mario nostalgia but rather shows off how well the formula used for those games is and how it can be improved to feel like a full-fleshed game. The only complaint I have is there are occasional platforming sections that don't play right and can get annoying but the fact that messing up a jump just sends you back and doesn't kill or hurt you is a big positive. I would certainly recommend if you want to play an RPG, unlike many others with a good story, strong characters, and challenging combat.… Expand
  36. Jubal16
    Aug 26, 2020
    10
    Excellent RPG Game. Notoriously taking classic Paper Mario's style, this indie game really felt like a spiritual succesor, having a great story, great battling system, good music and overall, a rather pleasant adventure.
  37. MrOvechkin
    Aug 26, 2020
    10
    Paper Maro 1&2 fans will cum playing this game hard facts haha. Beat the game under 35 hours. Plenty of other side quests still to do. 10/10
  38. M1sfiT__
    Aug 23, 2020
    8
    Map design extremamente confuso. Você acaba se perdendo e não sabe se já foi ali ou não, mas é um jogo muito bom.
  39. Starfree
    Aug 19, 2020
    8
    Does Paper Mario need Mario to be good? No. I’d much rather prefer an actual Paper Mario RPG, but Bug Fables proves that you don’t need a big name to be a good RPG. Bug Fables doesn’t try to be anything special just a simple RPG with Bugs. But by keeping it simple it becomes something special and in some way more memorable then all these complex complicated concepts of other RPGs.Does Paper Mario need Mario to be good? No. I’d much rather prefer an actual Paper Mario RPG, but Bug Fables proves that you don’t need a big name to be a good RPG. Bug Fables doesn’t try to be anything special just a simple RPG with Bugs. But by keeping it simple it becomes something special and in some way more memorable then all these complex complicated concepts of other RPGs. Sometimes you gotta look at the little pictures. And the little pictures are sometimes prettier then the bigger ones.… Expand
  40. Apportal
    Aug 10, 2020
    9
    Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling is the return to Paper we didn’t deserve. It features unique and interesting characters, an expansive and exciting overworld, and a long set playtime making it worth the money. If you love RPG’s, I strongly suggest you get it. I don’t recommend or ask, I STRONGLY suggest you to buy it.
  41. arh3399
    Aug 8, 2020
    7
    I liked this game but I feel its started very slow. The first 10 hrs were a slog to get through but then it picked up and was pretty fun. Wasn't to difficult even with the challenge badge they give you that makes the bosses harder. With all the quest you can really put a lot of time into this game if you want to. I don't love the quick time event battle system, but its solid.
  42. ryanreynochu
    Jul 27, 2020
    10
    Just finished Chapter 2, fantastic game. Has a few shortcomings, but it's the most fun I've had with an RPG of this style in a very long time
  43. Bebrop
    Jul 20, 2020
    10
    With the exception of a few very slight hiccups, the game accomplishes everything it sets out to be. It's characters are wonderful, the world is fascinating, and it's full of secrets. The combat is like classic Paper Mario with a few modernizations that make it flow all the smoother. This game is just so lovingly made that no one needs to hold out for a squeal to The Thousand Year DoorWith the exception of a few very slight hiccups, the game accomplishes everything it sets out to be. It's characters are wonderful, the world is fascinating, and it's full of secrets. The combat is like classic Paper Mario with a few modernizations that make it flow all the smoother. This game is just so lovingly made that no one needs to hold out for a squeal to The Thousand Year Door anymore; It's right here.… Expand
  44. Paulverizer
    Jul 20, 2020
    9
    If you've been looking for a game that will fill the void that Nintendo has created since making Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, this is the game for you. As a side note, this game vastly overshadows the new Paper Mario: The Origami King if you were a larger fan of the first 2 games of this series.

    On its own the combat system is creative and fun, with an interesting world to    If you've been looking for a game that will fill the void that Nintendo has created since making Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, this is the game for you. As a side note, this game vastly overshadows the new Paper Mario: The Origami King if you were a larger fan of the first 2 games of this series.

    On its own the combat system is creative and fun, with an interesting world to explore as you play the game. Any RPG fan will like this game.    … Expand
  45. BeeBoss
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    Maybe this is not TTYD but is decent and better in any way from every modern Paper Mario. If you consider what buy (Origami King or Bug Fables, buy Bug Fables with a clear conscience; Origami King is a joke)
  46. EmCza
    Jul 19, 2020
    9
    After I’ve played Paper Mario: Origami King I changed my opinion about this game. Maybe this is not a PM:TTYD but this is very good RPG game. Origami King is a beauty crap, Bug Fables is unpolished diamond.
    I hope that the next part of this game will wipe out the Paper Mario series, which deserves to be forgotten
  47. Krispy123111
    Jun 29, 2020
    10
    It's what made the original paper Mario games great in a new package that feels superb. If you want more of a challenge similar to the paper Mario mods the game has a hard mode badge right out of the gate, and additional challenge badges you can get later on to really make it punishing. I've seen comments about how specific save spots are a problem but that's the intention, it's just likeIt's what made the original paper Mario games great in a new package that feels superb. If you want more of a challenge similar to the paper Mario mods the game has a hard mode badge right out of the gate, and additional challenge badges you can get later on to really make it punishing. I've seen comments about how specific save spots are a problem but that's the intention, it's just like the older RPG from a bygone era. The only real complaint i have is that a few puzzles, particularly involving the boomerang, can be tedious and finicky.… Expand
  48. Heavydog
    Jun 24, 2020
    8
    Bug Fables ist ein gelungenes Abenteuer, das seine Inspirationsquelle mit Stolz vor sich trägt. Die Kämpfe machen durchgehend Spaß und bringen einen besonders im Hard Mode zum Nachdenken. Die Welt glänzt mit sympathischen und witzigen Charakteren, besonders die drei Protagonisten erhalten während des Spiels viel Character-Development. Nebenquests tragen zur Lore bei und beinhalten mitunterBug Fables ist ein gelungenes Abenteuer, das seine Inspirationsquelle mit Stolz vor sich trägt. Die Kämpfe machen durchgehend Spaß und bringen einen besonders im Hard Mode zum Nachdenken. Die Welt glänzt mit sympathischen und witzigen Charakteren, besonders die drei Protagonisten erhalten während des Spiels viel Character-Development. Nebenquests tragen zur Lore bei und beinhalten mitunter interessante Aufgaben und der Umfang des Spiels weiß mit weit über 30 Stunden zu überzeugen. Leider fehlt es dem Spiel an Feinschliff und Präzision (insbesondere beim Platforming), die man aus Paper Mario gewohnt sind. Wer aber Geduld zeigt und über diese Makel hinwegsehen kann erhält hier einen würdigen Seelenverwandten zum klassischen Paper Mario.… Expand
  49. twztid13
    Jun 23, 2020
    8
    Fantastic game. Don't give up after the first few minutes if you're not a fan of Paper Mario (meaning you've never played them before). Give it a chance for an hour or two & i think you'll be glad you did. Every Paper Mario fan will love it. It runs great, even in handheld mode, btw.
  50. aZombieDictator
    Jun 10, 2020
    10
    The Paper Mario we've all wanted. Amazing music, charming characters, wonderful gameplay, perfect combat anf awesome medal system.
  51. VirgoCave
    Jun 7, 2020
    10
    This game is solid 8.5 but it deserves a lot of more attention .

    Full of secrets bosses, items and strategies using the medals. Technically is Paper Mario 3 Bug Fables but at least is better than the 64 original. A Must buy for any RPG fan, especially , Paper Mario Fans.
  52. Captain_N
    Jun 6, 2020
    10
    What an incredibly charming game that taps into exactly what made the old Paper Mario games so much fun to play.
    It might not be as long or as polished as that but it's sure as hecc miles above what Nintendo has been doing with their franchise and I had a lot of fun playing it.
    The characters are lovely and their dialogue, jokes, and banter is so enjoyable. The graphic iconic and    What an incredibly charming game that taps into exactly what made the old Paper Mario games so much fun to play.
    It might not be as long or as polished as that but it's sure as hecc miles above what Nintendo has been doing with their franchise and I had a lot of fun playing it.
    The characters are lovely and their dialogue, jokes, and banter is so enjoyable.
    The graphic iconic and colorful and gameplay a lot of fun.

    One of the things I wasn't too crazy about is how when you need to use Medal/Badges which gives you special attributes, there always seem to be a tradeoff instead of them outright improving your characters.
    Like, you'd get a badge that gives 1+ to attack BUT 1- to defense.
    You have to pour your level up points into medals to actually make use of them, which in itself should be the tradeoff so I didn't feel it as satisfying to use medals as I did when using badges in Paper Mario.

    I definitely hope to see more from this franchise again in the future!    … Expand
  53. CiphirSol
    Jun 2, 2020
    9
    Hey it's about time we got something like this out of a developer other than Nintendo. Cool premise, multi-platform and superficially reminds me of Hollow Knight. Sold.
  54. Kavawuvi
    May 31, 2020
    10
    As a lot of people have noted, it's a really good game for people who liked the classic Paper Mario RPGs from the Nintendo 64 and GameCube.

    Personally, I think the formula has aged quite well (and has even been improved upon!), so I'd actually argue this game is made for more than just those players in particular. Also, the characters and world are quite charming, and the OST is very    As a lot of people have noted, it's a really good game for people who liked the classic Paper Mario RPGs from the Nintendo 64 and GameCube.

    Personally, I think the formula has aged quite well (and has even been improved upon!), so I'd actually argue this game is made for more than just those players in particular. Also, the characters and world are quite charming, and the OST is very good. There's also a LOT to do in this game, so you're definitely getting your money's worth.

    I hope we can fondly remember this game 15 years from now like we did with Paper Mario 64 and Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door.    … Expand
  55. cupjaw
    May 31, 2020
    10
    this game is fantastic! whether you're a fan of the old school paper Mario games and looking for a spiritual successor, or a casual player looking for a fun experience for a low price, this game is a great choice. it has a well written cast of lovable characters with interesting backstories and amazing chemistry. the combat is incredible, the story and atmosphere are unforgettable, thethis game is fantastic! whether you're a fan of the old school paper Mario games and looking for a spiritual successor, or a casual player looking for a fun experience for a low price, this game is a great choice. it has a well written cast of lovable characters with interesting backstories and amazing chemistry. the combat is incredible, the story and atmosphere are unforgettable, the soundtrack and artstyle are delightful, and there is an incredible amount of content for the price. it blew me away the first time I played it. instant classic.… Expand
  56. Joerpg84
    May 30, 2020
    10
    This is the best Paper Mario game since TTYD. It truely is the spiritual successor and puts all the other Paper Mario games to shame. I wouldn’t be surprised if this may end up better than origami king based on the battle system alone.
  57. Malsharif
    May 30, 2020
    9
    If you like Super Paper Mario you will love this game the gameplay is great
  58. KINGTUTT52
    May 29, 2020
    10
    It's basically everything good about TTYD or Paper Mario 64 but way harder. This is a must buy in my opinion.
  59. orukusaki
    May 29, 2020
    8
    Save points are kind of annoying in this game I think i saw another review that mentioned that. It's a good game, it def scratches that PM TYD itch until this new game releases later on this summer. I'm enjoying it.
  60. EraTostaNess
    May 29, 2020
    9
    This game succeeds in everything its trying to do, and I would say, it evens surpasses the beloved Paper Mario games!
  61. JoySlip
    May 29, 2020
    10
    This game is a love letter for every TTYD lover in the world. Also one to people who are skeptical about the new paper mario. I can’t even sum up my joy for this game in this review, so just go play it. Please.
  62. greenbur
    May 29, 2020
    7
    I really enjoy this game but having specific save points is very annoying because that means you can't stop whenever you won't, you either have to lose your progress or keep going until you can save. Another small issue is you can't see enemy health which messes with tactics for the game. The last thing is there is part of the game where you are throwing things and you have to be preciseI really enjoy this game but having specific save points is very annoying because that means you can't stop whenever you won't, you either have to lose your progress or keep going until you can save. Another small issue is you can't see enemy health which messes with tactics for the game. The last thing is there is part of the game where you are throwing things and you have to be precise and it's hard to do that with the way the game moves the characters. You don't have complete control over how they're facing which makes being precise hard.… Expand
  63. StageBuild
    May 28, 2020
    10
    Ok so one of my favourite game is Paper Mario TTYD and you know what Bug Fables is even better. Get this and You wont be disapointed I dont even know why are you checking reviews for serious. Get this game already

Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best Switch Game of 2020
22
#22 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Aug 29, 2020
    85
    Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling shattered my skepticism through its amazing main characters, quirky NPCs, challenging battles and interesting locales, and I sincerely hope more players will give it a shot. [Issue #47 – July/August 2020, p. 26]
  2. SpazioGames
    Jun 18, 2020
    84
    Bug Fables is much more than a loving tribute to the first two episodes of the Paper Mario franchise: it is a beautifully crafted rpg adventure that any Switch owner should not miss.
    Read full review
  3. Cubed3
    Jun 16, 2020
    80
    Everyone that is excited over the prospect of the upcoming Paper Mario: The Origami King needs to pick this up. While Sticker Star and Colour Splash took the series in quite unwelcomed directions, this fully embraces the original. The combat system keeps things constantly engaging, the world is inviting, and the trio of main characters utterly charming. This is a world that deserves to be further explored and returned to, and it will hopefully see future instalments. The Origami King has some genuine competition here.
    Read full review
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