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

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. 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.
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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.
  5. 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
  6. 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!
  7. aZombieDictator
    Jun 10, 2020
    10
    The Paper Mario we've all wanted. Amazing music, charming characters, wonderful gameplay, perfect combat anf awesome medal system.
  8. 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.
  9. 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!
  10. 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
  11. 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
  12. 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
  13. 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.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.
  16. 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
  17. 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
  18. 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
  19. 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)
  20. 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
  21. 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
  22. 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.
  23. 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
  24. danxz5
    May 11, 2021
    10
    Better than paper mario! It has better dialogue with characters, better RPG elements, a more lively world.
  25. 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
  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. 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
  28. 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.
  29. 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.
  30. 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!
prev
Page:

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
See all critic reviews »