Paper Mario: The Origami King

 Switch
User Score
7.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 1769 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,103 out of 1769
  2. Mixed: 269 out of 1769
  3. Negative: 397 out of 1769
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  1. Wuqinglong
    Jul 18, 2020
    4
    Intelligent Systems seems to have accidentally left janky RPG puzzle combat in a Mario adventure game it released. The music was great and the game looks decent visually with some areas much better than other but do not play this if you are looking for an RPG experience.
  2. Krenter
    Jul 19, 2020
    4
    Decepcionante, crei que aprenderian de sus errores anteriores
  3. Spiralblack
    Jul 19, 2020
    0
    Boring, completely fails to captivate like the oldest games in the series can. Just another failure to add to the newest releases of the series.
  4. wow134949
    Jul 19, 2020
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Contains slight ending spoilers, you have been warned

    Impressive sound design and a wholly cohesive art experience cannot compensate for the horrible battle system, the non-existence of original designs and shoddy story. While at times very charming, the game goes overboard on its 'humor' to the point where it doesn't take itself seriously anymore ultimately culminating in (ending spoilers!) King Olly's motivation being literally a gag. After reading some recent interviews this game feels like the epitome of developer talent being channeled into obviously wrong directions. The Origami King peaks very early and only gets worse the longer it goes mainly because of a wholly defunct battle system which should never have been anything but an occasional gimmick. Disappointingly only a 4/10 for a game that nails a lot of details but somehow manages to fail spectacularly on its very basal level.    … Expand
  5. CarloZ999
    Jul 18, 2020
    1
    Da pereza después de las primeras horas, es básicamente lo mismo de siempre
  6. HppyThoughts
    Jul 18, 2020
    3
    First of all I would like to start with the positives of the game. The game has a very colorful world that looks really good to look at. The dialogue is actually pretty funny just like the other paper mario games. Thats unfortunately where my compliments for the game end for me though.

    I wanted to go in liking this game being a paper mario since the very first game but this game just    First of all I would like to start with the positives of the game. The game has a very colorful world that looks really good to look at. The dialogue is actually pretty funny just like the other paper mario games. Thats unfortunately where my compliments for the game end for me though.

    I wanted to go in liking this game being a paper mario since the very first game but this game just has a lot of the design flaws that sticker star and colour splash had. First of all battles are again feel really pointless although I will admit later in the game you do somewhat feel like you need to battle to get some confetti but honestly I think you can just play this game without battling most optional enemies which is a real shame.

    The battle system itself although creative I don't find fun at all. At first it seems intuitive but when for every battle your on a timer it feels really stressful at times with how your going to plan out your next attack which is something I never really felt even from the sticker star and colour splash games. Also although it neat that they introduce equipment rather than stickers and cards it's annoying that they break and it kind of goes back to battles feeling pointless because I'd rather save my stuff for required boss fights and encounters rather than optional enemies.

    It's really quite a shame because I think what this game needs, or the series as a whole, is to fully commit to either the RPG side or action adventure side because this series since sticker star proves that you can't just half put into both the RPG aspect and action adventure aspect. Stick to one and I think maybe you can make a good game out of it but until then we will just have these weird design problems that plague all these games since sticker star.    … Expand
  7. Yohmi
    Jul 19, 2020
    4
    The fight system is just horrible. There is no progress, you just get coins, and coins get you nothing, you already have too much.
    Every fight works the same way, align your ennemies in line or in square, hit and win.
    Failing to align the enemies, and you lose. You're not good at rubik's cube ? this game is going to be your greatest frustration. For me it's a nightmare. The characters    The fight system is just horrible. There is no progress, you just get coins, and coins get you nothing, you already have too much.
    Every fight works the same way, align your ennemies in line or in square, hit and win.
    Failing to align the enemies, and you lose. You're not good at rubik's cube ? this game is going to be your greatest frustration. For me it's a nightmare.
    The characters you meet are all generic. So they can't be lovable, everybody knows that but apparently Nintendo is against it nowadays. We all know what a goomba or a koopa looks like, and we're quite fed up with seeing the very same model over and over. Wrong.
    Exploration is also broken, and it's tied to the battle system : the only hidden things you will find around (a staple of JRPG and the first three Mario RPGs) are clone toads to free. Not equipments, weapons, stuff to make you stronger, change your strategy, nope, you only get toads. Freeing a toad is useless, but allows you to unlock artworks. So you got no motivation in exploring, it's boring.

    I love JRPG, I love Paper Mario on the N64, its sequel on the NGC, I love Octopath Traveler, Dragon Quest XI, the first Mario&Luigi etc. I'm totally fine with slow paced adventure, turn by turn fights. But here, it's just not working. It's a failure, in a time where Nintendo is meeting great success, where Nintendo finally brought back the Mario 64 formula for its platformer with incredible reception, but for Paper Mario, we're stuck in the wrong loop since the 3DS, and unfortunately, this Switch version is not what people wanted, is not what fans want.

    I gave it a 4, which is an extremely severe rating for me, because two days in a row I stopped playing, not because it was 3 AM and I should really need some sleep, but because I was bored and frustrated. It's not something I ever experienced with a Nintendo game, I'm so disappointed.    … Expand
  8. Bulletstorm
    Jul 19, 2020
    4
    The game looked very promising in the initial announcement but has fallen short in nearly every aspect. Early entries in the series had an engaging story and an interesting cast of characters, sadly, the same can not be said for the origami king. Fans of the series were also hoping for a return to the rpg roots of the series but instead we get a battle system which does not feel rewardingThe game looked very promising in the initial announcement but has fallen short in nearly every aspect. Early entries in the series had an engaging story and an interesting cast of characters, sadly, the same can not be said for the origami king. Fans of the series were also hoping for a return to the rpg roots of the series but instead we get a battle system which does not feel rewarding and gets boring really fast.… Expand
  9. BlunderFunk
    Jul 18, 2020
    0
    I mean there is 0 incentive to go into battle, we go back again to the issues the last 2 entries had, no way to earn xp and upgrade yourself. Equips have durability? excuse me? am I playing dead raising? That's the thing that put me off from breath of the wild and hell no am I having this again with paper mario, you can literally play the game and never die...I already saw 2 playthroughsI mean there is 0 incentive to go into battle, we go back again to the issues the last 2 entries had, no way to earn xp and upgrade yourself. Equips have durability? excuse me? am I playing dead raising? That's the thing that put me off from breath of the wild and hell no am I having this again with paper mario, you can literally play the game and never die...I already saw 2 playthroughs were people never died and how come you can do 3/4 of damage to a boss just by using the flower item???? this game is literally for kids not gonna lie, but the game is way to boring to play. I can only see kids liking this as they just see mario on the cover. Filling holes are a chore to do as that's the only mechanic like the spots in color splash. And gods sake partners....why nintendo doesn't give a **** about original partners and bosses? the bosses in this game seems like a joke honestly...Paper mario is still king from 64 to wii, but after that is a waste of money and time. The only good thing I can say about this are the jokes in the story.… Expand
  10. Goodnightmoon
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    Critics are right, this game is fantastic, gameplay works, graphics are amazing, music is awesome and the writing is so fun. This is one of the funniest experiences on Switch, people is blinded by nostalgia.
  11. joshyleon
    Jul 19, 2020
    0
    its great to have a funny game,but the game just keep trying to be funny constantly where is get annoying
    and the battle system really useless
    feel like 60$ robed
  12. Beto1960
    Jul 18, 2020
    10
    The paper Mario saga has a great return with this Game i love it, 10/10 guys
  13. nemuiyo
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    This is a great game that some users are reviewing with abysmal scores because dissing on quality productions is somewhat trendy and being edgy is the new cool.
  14. Hahn
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    Beautifull
    - Good adventure game
    - Beautiful game
    - Creative fight mechanic
    - Cool Boss Fights
  15. PotatSalad
    Jul 18, 2020
    10
    This game is actually pretty good. I wouldn’t exactly consider this game a sticker star 3 or a color splash 2 as it gets rid of my two least favorite aspects of those games, which were the “things” and the single use cards and stickers. Battles feel like much less of a chore than those of color splash, and while the return of partners feels mediocre at best, the game still feels much lessThis game is actually pretty good. I wouldn’t exactly consider this game a sticker star 3 or a color splash 2 as it gets rid of my two least favorite aspects of those games, which were the “things” and the single use cards and stickers. Battles feel like much less of a chore than those of color splash, and while the return of partners feels mediocre at best, the game still feels much less barren and lonesome than the last two paper Mario games. Don’t play this game expecting it to be the next TTYD, however. If you play with that mindset you WILL be disappointed.… Expand
  16. atillaakay
    Jul 21, 2020
    10
    Very very charming and always nice to see Nintendo invent new ways to play this game is a must play
  17. GARU94
    Jul 22, 2020
    10
    After playing it for 40 hours until 100% completion I can say that this is easily one of the most grate surprises Nintendo has given me in years. After the boringly disappointing Sticker Star and its sequel Color Splash that didn't do enough to improve upon it, Intelligent Systems managed to get their stuff together and delivered the best Paper Mario experience since the beloved ThousandAfter playing it for 40 hours until 100% completion I can say that this is easily one of the most grate surprises Nintendo has given me in years. After the boringly disappointing Sticker Star and its sequel Color Splash that didn't do enough to improve upon it, Intelligent Systems managed to get their stuff together and delivered the best Paper Mario experience since the beloved Thousand Year Door despite insisting on departing from its RPG roots. The Origami King is a beautiful, charming and fun Adventure game that is more similar to a Zelda game than any other Mario game out there, and it managed to keep me hooked in its world for the entire duration of it.

    I know this game is probably going to be a bit divisive among long time fans of the series, but for what it is, Origami King stands on its own as one of Nintendo's most refined adventures in recent times. Go play it for yourself and stop doubting the direction its taken, this time they got it right    … Expand
  18. moiseskhaleb
    Jul 30, 2020
    10
    Good game with no inclusions and politics perfect for all, really good game
  19. Rocketmantan
    Jul 21, 2020
    10
    If The Last of Us Part 2 score 10/10, then this game deserves 20/10, since TLOU2 is just trash filled with political agenda and woke culture. This game is so so so much fun, this is how game should be made!
  20. MrOvechkin
    Jul 18, 2020
    9
    This paper mario entry might lack the combat system we all know and love about the first two games. But I'm currently 8 hours in and I'm just really loving the open worldness feel/comedy side to the story is charmingly hilarious. Definitely a must buy for any paper mario fan who played them all!
  21. Memes_foreverTM
    Jul 18, 2020
    9
    Paper Mario: The origami King es un aire nuevo a la franquicia que algunos creían muerta de Paper Mario, este juego vino a dar una nueva perspectiva a la saga con una trama oscura casi similar a la segunda entrega de la saga, trayendo escenarios nuevos, con unoas formas muy coloridas y una historia de la cual no hablare por no Spoilear, su fallo mayor son nuevamente los combates, losPaper Mario: The origami King es un aire nuevo a la franquicia que algunos creían muerta de Paper Mario, este juego vino a dar una nueva perspectiva a la saga con una trama oscura casi similar a la segunda entrega de la saga, trayendo escenarios nuevos, con unoas formas muy coloridas y una historia de la cual no hablare por no Spoilear, su fallo mayor son nuevamente los combates, los cuales te pareceran inecesarios y hasta algo aburridos aunque muy parecidos a los originales, aunque no tiene la escencia que deberia… Expand
  22. Clyle2046
    Jul 18, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Awesome Game! Once you get use to the battle system (in particular for Boss fights), the game is just perfect. That is the only reason I gave it a 9 instead of a 10/10.… Expand
  23. ragnevi
    Jul 20, 2020
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I loved the game Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam Bros and was really hoping for something similar. It's not. The story is weak (but who plays Mario game for the story anyway), the fighting system is really repetitive, and since it doesn't really reward you in any way you are just trying to avoid them (you get coins but they are everywhere and it's not like you can buy much). They are also extra hard if you are one of those who has a problem with a drifting joy-con. Most of the time you are collecting Toads, I do not really know why though. They give you sometimes a funny oneliner and they are off. What is great about the game is the graphic style and music. But the game is lacking something, it feels like it's not really done and it where rushed so Nintendo would have a game to release during the summer.… Expand
  24. sarisa
    Oct 4, 2020
    2
    Many praise soundtrack for this game. Although in fact it's the weakest point imo. Yeah, I know battle system is controversial here... but at least it is "controversial". Music is on the other hand bland, generic and generally lackluster. For the most time it doesn't even match what's happening on screen. On the other side we have pretty average game full of humor and goofy story. IfMany praise soundtrack for this game. Although in fact it's the weakest point imo. Yeah, I know battle system is controversial here... but at least it is "controversial". Music is on the other hand bland, generic and generally lackluster. For the most time it doesn't even match what's happening on screen. On the other side we have pretty average game full of humor and goofy story. If you're deaf maybe you will like it.

    Edit: Unfortunately, after spending a lot more time with this game, I have to admit it was a total waste of time. As a result, I have to lower my score from the initial 4/10 to 2/10. The more you progress, the worse, and the only thing that keeps repeating in your head is the thought "this game was written and designed by idiots!" In terms of narrative, the game tries to be initially fun, but ends up being pathetic. OK, I know - it's all forgivable. You say that many stupid decisions were made in this game (not even counting the combat system), but still the game is overall OK. Below overage, but not a total disaster. I could agree for the most time. However, what happens at the end of the game is just overkill. Somewhere later in the story, you have a mandatory "mini-game" (yes, that Shy-guy show), in which after scoring 100 points in fairly easy but wrongly designed challenges (you always know the right answer but rarely have enough time to align the wheels... ), as "the icing on your frustration cake" you have to answer what is the correct word used in the first song in the game (this silly one with dancing trees). A song, that you obviously cannot remember because it passed so much time. And you think, "so what?" - there surelly cannot be any consequences for that. Oh boy, how wrong you are! The thing is, that it's just "game over" if you can't answer correctly. All of sudden - after collecting all toads, all hidden blocks to this point you're rewarded with game over. Just because you don't remember silly song from the beginning. And nobody ever told you to memorize it! Is this the most important aspect of Origami King? Thats what it's all about - silly game about dancing trees! Didn't know that? What a **** At the beginning I thought that maybe it was just random bad decision in this particular moment of this game, or maybe they again wanted to be "that funny". But then I recalled many situations like that in this game.. Nope. This was made all on purpose. You know why? Because apparently they hired bunch of monkeys who had smoked weed while designing this game. And you paid them your hard earned money for that. Don't get me wrong. Game execution is OK - the engineers did good job. It's writers & designers who should be fired here.
    Don't be stupid like me - do not buy this game. It's neither for children nor for parents. It has no purpose and playing this gives you nothing. It's like B-class movie which was supposed to be and advertiesed as B-class pastishe, but fells flat and ends up with cringe.    … Expand
  25. gddurruti
    Jul 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Está divertidísimo, bastante emocional y los jefes son muy retadores, el Villano cumple muy bien su función, los diálogos son buenísimos; por otro lado falla en precisión del joycon, no hay evolución del personaje (incrementar nivel, solo corazones, no hay ataques tándem cómo en "Superstar saga") en cambio tienes que comprar objetos más poderosos, es un juego muy largo y colorido, el soundtrack está muy genial, los puzzles muy buenos... Yo le pondría un 9.5, está muy bueno para mí perspectiva, a diferencia de los "Review bombing" en metacritic que se nota que no lo jugaron. Son geniales los mapas y las inteligentes búsquedas de toads, quienes te ayudan en tus batallas (siempre que los encuentres y les pagues con monedas), a mí me encantó el teatro, el barco, la zona ninja y samurai, bastante interesante el desierto..... Es un clásico instantáneo, de los mejores Paper Mario.… Expand
  26. DutchPotato
    Jul 28, 2020
    0
    it's truly baffling how Intelligent Systems can clearly put so much time, care and effort into making this lovelingly crafted (and at times increadibly beautiful) paper craft world while simultanously putting so little thought into making the game actually fun and interesting.
  27. camrnnn
    Jul 20, 2020
    10
    The games actually really good my favorite paper mario games are the original 2 but this game is up there with them to me.
  28. Evandro_mn
    Jul 19, 2020
    6
    Jogo fraquinho... sistema de batalha chato, na real se puder fugir das batalhas (de todas elas) não vai influenciar em nada...
    O jogo só é bonitinho...
  29. Henryseraph
    Jul 19, 2020
    6
    No hay mucho que agregar a un juego de Mario.
    Hasta el momento el mejor juego de Mario en Nintendo switch Sigue siendo Mario odissey.
  30. traziona
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    Best Paper Mario since the Wii days. Also, a completionist's nightmarish heaven.
  31. Karin31
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    Es muy buen juego ,con una muy bonita ambientación y colorido a veces estos juegos hacen mucha falta y en esta época son de lo mejor .
  32. felixsstyles
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    Für mich ist dies ein sehr gutes Paper Mario. Es hat ein gutes Kampfsystem, außerdem ist wieder eine richtige Story vorhanden. Für mich bekommt dieses Spiel 10 Punkte, allerdings kommt auch dieses Game nicht an Paper Mario 2 heran. Da geht noch was Nintendo.
  33. LoogiRavioli
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    This is the Paper Mario people have been asking for. Nintendo has brought us a brand new battle system that makes every battle a puzzle. Along your journey you'll team up with 4 different partners to aid you in quests and in battle. Extremely catchy soundtrack. A game with an incredibly intriguing story with emotional moments that could make one shed a tear. An ending that could really putThis is the Paper Mario people have been asking for. Nintendo has brought us a brand new battle system that makes every battle a puzzle. Along your journey you'll team up with 4 different partners to aid you in quests and in battle. Extremely catchy soundtrack. A game with an incredibly intriguing story with emotional moments that could make one shed a tear. An ending that could really put a smile on your face with tears of joy. If you own a switch, this is a must-have title. Thank you Nintendo. This has become one of my favorite games ever.… Expand
  34. PlotPusher
    Jul 20, 2020
    10
    The game is actually really good, and the visuals and especially the music are both amazing.
    If you haven't, you should really give this game a chance.
  35. Cefolia
    Jul 20, 2020
    7
    This game has a lot to like, but also a lot to dislike. When reading this keep in mind that the only paper Mario game I’ve played even a large amount of was super paper mario for the Wii, so don’t expect this to be a review written by some massive paper mario fan, just someone who enjoys video games in general.

    Things I liked about the game -the soundtrack as well as sound design in    This game has a lot to like, but also a lot to dislike. When reading this keep in mind that the only paper Mario game I’ve played even a large amount of was super paper mario for the Wii, so don’t expect this to be a review written by some massive paper mario fan, just someone who enjoys video games in general.

    Things I liked about the game
    -the soundtrack as well as sound design in general was very well made and enjoyable -every single area in this game looks GORGEOUS
    -the dialogue made me chuckle plenty of times -the new characters introduced are at the very least intriguing if not super explored

    Things I didn’t like
    -the game doesn’t even resemble an RPG, one of the main aspects of the older titles, which are the more appreciated games in the series
    -the battle system is literally just solving puzzles with no element of strategy. It gets old relatively quickly, and doesn’t do much besides give you coins, considering there’s no exp -the games length is SUPER LONG, which would normally be a compliment if it weren’t for so many parts just slowing you down and intentionally causing problems, just to drag out the gameplay and make the campaign longer with no real fun mechanic or gameplay to it


    Overall, I will say it’s a good game, but still brought down by some serious flaws    … Expand
  36. trippfox
    Jul 21, 2020
    10
    I’m really glad I picked this up on a whim. I was itching for a new RPG to really sink my teeth into and I have always been a fan of Mario games but never picked up a Paper Mario title in the past. My friends had the previous games growing up and I would watch them play and I was fascinated with the charm in the art style, beautiful soundtrack, and great humor. Well those things stayed inI’m really glad I picked this up on a whim. I was itching for a new RPG to really sink my teeth into and I have always been a fan of Mario games but never picked up a Paper Mario title in the past. My friends had the previous games growing up and I would watch them play and I was fascinated with the charm in the art style, beautiful soundtrack, and great humor. Well those things stayed in tact as I finally joined the Paper Mario fandom. Granted some mechanics are different and the battle system while sometimes frustrating is still fun in its own way and offers a fresh spin on rpg battle systems. I found myself exploring carelessly in this beautiful paper world while playing through the main story. If you think that you might have any doubt in giving this a shot but are a fan of the rpg genre, a fan of exploration and humor, or a true Mario fan, hesitate no more. Grab this game immediately!… Expand
  37. OJ294
    Jul 21, 2020
    8
    This game takes elements from previous paper mario game styles, while still feeling fresh and new with its unique battle system and plot. The game is similar to sticker star and color splash with no exp and optional battles, but it also pulls elements from the original games such as more unique landscapes, as well as more open world enviorments, not to mention the addition of partnersThis game takes elements from previous paper mario game styles, while still feeling fresh and new with its unique battle system and plot. The game is similar to sticker star and color splash with no exp and optional battles, but it also pulls elements from the original games such as more unique landscapes, as well as more open world enviorments, not to mention the addition of partners (sorta). The game has some cool gimmicks, and whether your filling all the holes with confetti, finding all the missing toads, or collecting all the trophies (which there are a lot of), your sure to have a blast in the newest addition to the franchise. The battle system in the game takes more if a puzzle-like approach, having the player lineup the enemies in a way that they can be taken out before launching their attack. This is a very cool concept, and personally, I live the way it functions in the game. However with all the optional enemy battles littered throughout different areas, it may get repetitive and mayne even boring after a little while. Another main piece of the game is the puzzles, which their is a plethora of. These puzzles, however, are never too grueling, and if younger or more inexperienced players need help they can ask olivia ( your partner throughout the game) for a hint on how to complete it. Th e boss system is very similar to the normal battle system, except instead of mario being in the center attacking his enemies, you have yo solve a puzzle to get to the center to attack the boss, which I adore. Not to mention, each boss brings a creative new gimmick to keep the player guessing on what will happen next. Overall, I think the Origami King is a really good game, and one that truly deserves your time. I had a blast playing through it myself, and while it may not live up to the originals glory, it is an overall really solid title in the franchise.… Expand
  38. Tomplinkinstein
    Jul 26, 2020
    2
    Worthless addition to a series that should know better. I'm not mad, just disappointed.
  39. ScarletBean
    Jul 29, 2020
    0
    Honestly, things would have been better off if Paper Mario died instead of the Mario and Luigi series, seeing as how the direction this game is taking is no longer appealing to the core fans of the series. Huge disappointment
  40. CyberGamer1539
    Aug 10, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I've found that most the negative review's complaints are solely based on the fact that this isn't a carbon copy of the first two games. Stuff like "No EXP, battles are useless, partners aren't literally the most in-depth creations for any game ever, etc." They are missing the point. Paper Mario is no longer an RPG series. Yes, that sucks, and I too kind of wish the series would go back to its roots, but judging this game based on its merits as an RPG is so stupid. Of course it's not very good at being an RPG, because it's not an RPG, it's an action-adventure game with some RPG elements like turn-based battles.

    People who say there is no incentive to battle because there is no experience points baffled me. First of all, there's still coins, which are quite useful in this game unlike the past two, and second of all, THE BATTLES ARE FUN. I took place in most of the battles not because I needed to grind to survive the late game, but because I ENJOYED THEM. If the only incentive to battle is to make your character more powerful and not because they are fun, then I think that is a failed battle system. Origami King's battle system makes you think, and I felt super cool when I was able to do late-game battles in one turn without any help from the Toads. Maybe these battles aren't the most strategy intensive, but let's not forget, this game is not an RPG. The battles do not need to have a ton of strategy to be fun, because they can be fun and challenging in other ways. The bosses are also extremely fun, and you actually have to use strategy in them IN ADDITION TO THE RING BASED SYSTEM which I thought was extremely cool. Also I wanted to add that at first I was extremely disappointed that the Legion of Stationery, well, existed. But after the first couple I realized that they had extremely diverse and creative personalities, and their gimmicks were all centered around their real-world uses which was very fun to navigate around.

    Now let's talk about things that Origami King straight up does better than the original games in my opinion. The soundtrack is one of my favorite game soundtracks of all time, which is something that even the most diehard haters of this game's new direction can't deny. Some songs are catchy, some are energetic, some are epic, some are emotional, and many are a mix of these elements. Pretty much every track in this game serves its purpose and sounds great doing so. There are so many songs that I could just listen to for hours. Honestly, the music is probably my favorite aspect of the game.

    Along with this music comes some incredible looking areas. The first streamer area was probably the weakest in this department because it was admittedly a little standard. Mostly generic forest, Toad Town, generic grasslands, etc. However, every single other area is so unique and beautiful. Autumn Mountain is perhaps my favorite area in the game just because of how grand and beautiful it feels (though I might be a bit biased because the music is also incredible here). The paper aesthetic has also never looked better. It's seriously just a gorgeous game.

    Now let's talk story. The overall story is quite basic, though at least had a lot more depth than SS and CS. King Olly actually felt like a threat, and while is motivations were a bit... underwhelming, to say the least, I still think he was a somewhat interesting character. I think the more interesting part of the story was not Olly, but the dynamic between him and Olivia. She was genuinely terrified to confront her brother, but I think her character growth was nice to see.

    Though the main story was simple, some of the sub-plots were definitely not. The obvious example is Bobby. I cried. Ahem... moving on , I also really loved the Green Streamer area, where all of Bowser's minions rallied with you to face a common threat. It made the battle against Olly's forces seem almost like a war that affected people outside of just Mario and the occasional Toad. Also, the chase sequence at the beginning of the final area was very epic and moving in my opinion. I also really love that the game got a little dark at times. The devs got away with a lot of creepy, grotesque stuff because of the paper aesthetic, like Scissors cutting up people's bodies and attaching their disembodied faces to a monster, or Peach's body literally being folded into King Olly's castle as a decoration.

    Anyway uh this review probably won't convince anyone to buy the game because it has a few spoilers so I'm hiding it, but it's a really freaking good game. I kind of got a bit ranty but I just really enjoy talking about the game. I didn't give it a perfect score because there's still a part of me that wishes for the old RPG direction, but this is a darn good alternative if you ask me.    … Expand
  41. NVATO
    Oct 19, 2020
    1
    Super boring. I wish I wouldn't have bought it. Who thought it would be a good idea to only fight with boots and hammers. What a dumb waste of a cool concept
  42. sagebrushfire
    Jul 30, 2020
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A wonderful world and charming script marred by a frustrating and lifeless battle system, Paper Mario: Origami King is a huge middle finger to fans of the franchise. While the script is tight and full of great humor, the actual gameplay is so intolerable that I jumped ship and bought Bug Fables before beating Chapter 3. Everything about the battle system is unrewarding.

    The puzzles are frustrating, namely because of the looming timer, and provide no benefit beyond coins. The catch here is that you can amass 20,000 coins in a matter of minutes just by exploiting an easy wave battle in one of the very first areas. After you do that, there is literally no motivation to ever participate in an avoidable battle again since coinage is all you gain. The boss battles are almost fun but you still find yourself either taking a screenshot so you can mull over strategies or using an online guide—They’re not enjoyable enough to want to repeat so it’s either cheat or get mad and rage quit.

    The “teammates” you get don’t even do anything. They randomly show up and attack in battles, often when it doesn’t even make sense. The bomb character showed up in one of my battles only to sit in the arena and sleep—which was especially confusing because (In the story) we had lost him and I was literally on my way to find him—apparently he was simultaneously stuck in a tree 2 screens down but also somehow able to join the fight? That’s pretty lazy development. The puzzle aspects are well-developed but the RPG aspects seem lazily tacked on.

    Therein lies my issue with Paper Mario: Origami King—it’s a repetitive puzzle game deceitfully wearing the “Paper Mario” title. I’m sure there’s a market for this type of game but why did Nintendo force Intelligent Systems to turn one of the most beloved RPG franchises into an annoying brain teaser marathon? The last decent game in the series was Paper Jam on the 3DS. Fans have been craving the classic, turn-based RPG experience of the first 2 titles for over a decade. Some decent games have been developed but the magic of the original Paper Mario and Thousand Year Door seems to be gone forever.

    Luckily you can save yourself $40 and just buy Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling which is basically Paper Mario reskinned with an insect theme—and honestly it does a great job of it. Almost nothing is innovated from the original Paper Mario games in the best way possible: all the magic and playability is still there AND it even has several ways of amping up the difficulty for people who want a challenge.

    Overall verdict on Origami King: It’s a decent puzzle game but the RPG elements get in the way of the puzzles and the Puzzle Elements drain all life out of what little RPG play there is to be had. It is the worst of both worlds, which is a shame because the quips are pretty good. I recommend you just lookup the best moments on YouTube—watching someone else play Origami King is probably more satisfying than actually playing yourself.    … Expand
  43. lithiumbass
    Sep 30, 2020
    4
    Origami King has possibly the best soundtrack in the franchise but this is tarnished by a tedious battle system that gets old pretty fast. Items are reduced to a handful of varieties and honestly are rarely used in battle (I personally used them only once or twice but only early on).

    The plot is pretty paper thin (no pun intended), and even though the ending is touching, it can’t make up    Origami King has possibly the best soundtrack in the franchise but this is tarnished by a tedious battle system that gets old pretty fast. Items are reduced to a handful of varieties and honestly are rarely used in battle (I personally used them only once or twice but only early on).

    The plot is pretty paper thin (no pun intended), and even though the ending is touching, it can’t make up for a story that sadly is inferior to the traditional “bowser kidnaps peach” storyline.

    Badge and gear variety is lacking and completely erases strategy from the game. Rather, victory is tied to puzzle solving, which if done successfully, allows you to finish every fight in one turn before the enemy even has a chance to take a shot at you.

    On the positive side, the art style and open world blend wonderfully and make it a joy to explore.

    Overall, it’s a great looking and sounding game, but I always found myself hesitant to boot it up and finish it because the battle system—the meat and potatoes of the game—feel like an empty halfhearted effort at a new design that falls flat and has me begging for a true return to the classic Paper Mario battle system that made the franchise so enjoyable.    … Expand
  44. Fezehim
    Jul 23, 2020
    8
    I wasn't expected much going in, but I was pleasantly surprised, the battle system, while not as fun as in 64/TTYD, was still enjoyable, the humour was excellent and the characters were lovable. Sadly, there's likely never going to be another Paper Mario game in the style of the first 2, but what they produced with Origami King, was the next best thing, and If they made another game inI wasn't expected much going in, but I was pleasantly surprised, the battle system, while not as fun as in 64/TTYD, was still enjoyable, the humour was excellent and the characters were lovable. Sadly, there's likely never going to be another Paper Mario game in the style of the first 2, but what they produced with Origami King, was the next best thing, and If they made another game in this style, I'd buy the game in a heartbeat.… Expand
  45. TmatoCE
    Dec 2, 2020
    1
    i feel that this game is much worse than previous ones, i played all paper mario from gc and they all had some king of rpg and skills/items mechanics. But this game doent have any of this
  46. katieelizabeth
    Jul 24, 2020
    9
    I'm sure this will get disliked, but I'm 2-3 days into Origami King and the game is really good. The environments are amazing, jam-packed with stuff to do, puzzles to solve and stories to tell. The music is stellar. Like color splash, the game looks gorgeous. And the writing is superb and the characters are really funny and interesting. Olivia is definitely a standout partner in this gameI'm sure this will get disliked, but I'm 2-3 days into Origami King and the game is really good. The environments are amazing, jam-packed with stuff to do, puzzles to solve and stories to tell. The music is stellar. Like color splash, the game looks gorgeous. And the writing is superb and the characters are really funny and interesting. Olivia is definitely a standout partner in this game - I really like her - she's naive, witty, funny, honest, etc.

    The game isn't perfect. The tutorials at the beginning are a bit drown out and I wish I could have skipped them. Anyone who watched the trailers probably knows how the basics of the game works already. There's also some weird resource mechanics where you have finite supplies of resources - like confetti, gold and items - but everything is so plentiful I am not sure why it's finite in the first place. It's a shame we can't control our partners in battle, but I don't really miss the loss the xp progression - the game has other ways to progress in the form of accessories, heart containers, items, etc.

    As someone who loved ttyd and rpgs in general, I thought the puzzle-like battle system would bother me a lot, but it hasn't. Most battles are required to progress in the story, or at least make it so you don't have enemies chasing you constantly in the environment. Beating them is not pointless like some say because you have to beat them to progress in the story. Solving the same in-battle ring puzzles can get a bit boring and most of them are easy, but it hasn't really been such a major problem to drown out the rest of the game. The rest of the game is so great that the overall experience is still great. I really have fun playing it.

    Oh, and the boss battles are a lot of fun and each one has different mechanics. At first, they are not too difficult, but by the 4th boss, things definitely ramp up. They hit like a truck too, doing 40-75 damage at this part in the game.

    Overall, I'm really happy with Origami King. It is a game with lots of polish and love put into it. It just has so much charm, and it does so much so well. I would have given it a 10 if the battle system incorporated your companions more and offered more depth than just solving the puzzle, but I think the environments, the writing, the sound track and the bosses steal the show that I really do think this game deserves a 9/10.

    I think anyone giving this game a lower score than 8 just because it's named "paper mario" but is not designed the same way as TTYD is being dishonest. A game needs to be judged on its own merits. It's hard to take these people seriously when the game could have had a different title, like "Mario's Origami Adventure" and it would suddenly have a better rating using their review standard. It's frankly a dishonest way to review games. For better or worse, the series has changed - it's been over 15 years since TTYD - the old rpgs games have essentially been discontinued. I miss them too, but that doesn't make Origami King an objectively "bad" game.

    Part of me doesn't really understand how Nintendo fans of zelda or mario or metroid would not like this game - it's an adventure game like many other Nintendo games. Do these ttyd fans only play rpgs? If so, then I understand why they don't like it, but wow that's a pretty niche interest to only like rpgs on a Nintendo console while disliking all of the other adventure/action games Nintendo has on offer..... seems a bit biased/close-minded if you ask me. If you like Zelda, you would like this, whether you like or rpgs or not.    … Expand
  47. AventadorWesley
    Jul 22, 2020
    9
    After giving up on sticker star and color splash, did I enjoy Paper Mario: The Origami King? Short answer yes. And I even loved it.

    The Gameplay This Paper Mario entry is very similar to the old Paper Mario games when it comes to exploring the world. You meet new townspeople like normal Mario enemies, talk to them and discover a new story with a problem that you have to solve. It is    After giving up on sticker star and color splash, did I enjoy Paper Mario: The Origami King? Short answer yes. And I even loved it.

    The Gameplay
    This Paper Mario entry is very similar to the old Paper Mario games when it comes to exploring the world. You meet new townspeople like normal Mario enemies, talk to them and discover a new story with a problem that you have to solve. It is really fun to explore the world and discover more about the world. Especially because the writing in this game is absolutely amazing.

    The most controversial part of this game is the battle system. How I would describe it is a mix of the old paper Mario battle system and match 4. It is different but things that are different are not always bad. Which sometimes fans seem to think so. The battle is system offers complex encounters especially when there are a lot of enemies. Where you need to think fast and perform your attacks. It offers quite a challenge and I found myself attacking every enemy I came across.

    The only downside so far is that the intro is pretty slow which might become an issue if you plan on replaying the entire game multiple times.

    Style
    The graphics are simply amazing. If this game was running on a PS4 or XBONE I would have believed you. Everything looks stunning from the 2d paper to the 3D origami. The music is absolute amazing as well. Especially the star man theme.

    In conclusion Paper Mario: The Origami King is an amazing game with beautiful music and graphics. The battle system is new and a lot of fun. If you have a switch and need to decide which is your next game. This is an absolute contender if you love fun gameplay, good stories and good music.

    Like my dad always says "Don't hate it, because it is different'.

    9/10

    PS Listen to that star man theme!! You won't regret it.    … Expand
  48. nateOstrike
    Aug 14, 2020
    3
    The regular game gets a 6 from me. It is enjoyable and fun being above average. When I include the fighting arena mechanic the game drops to a 3. It is the most pointless, torturous and boring part of the game. Most of the time I tried to run away from enemies to avoid them but they are programmed to catch you and when a second wave comes at you... please I want to die! Boss fights areThe regular game gets a 6 from me. It is enjoyable and fun being above average. When I include the fighting arena mechanic the game drops to a 3. It is the most pointless, torturous and boring part of the game. Most of the time I tried to run away from enemies to avoid them but they are programmed to catch you and when a second wave comes at you... please I want to die! Boss fights are the same. So, so boring and consumes hours of gameplay. I recommend not playing this game unless you have nothing better at the time.… Expand
  49. Travisra
    Aug 3, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 'An emotional fold in the right direction'
    -Travis Lee As a fan of the older games in the series like Paper Mario 64, Thousand Year Door, and Super Paper Mario, I'm quite pleased at this huge step in the right direction in Paper Mario: The Oragami King. This game is much wanted sequel TTYD that we all want. Yet, this game is one big step in that direction. It's as if they're testing the water, whilst trying to prove a point to Nintendo and Miyamoto who placed restriction on the Paper Mario Series ever since Production of Paper Mario: Stocker Star.This new entry in the series is a complete masterpiece in it's own right. Hence, it pulls off a 10 out of 10 score from me. You see this game is full of laughs, yet, it knows its fanbase well and that most of that fan base are adults. Thus, they've managed to add some much needed adult humor, easter eggs, and an emotional rollercoaster throughout this paper adventure. Intelligent Systems doesnt pull thier punches when it comes to emotional story telling, not one bit! Now, regarding battles there is still no XP to be warned, yet they make the coin system work! Every moment of this game is pure fun, nothing feels tedious and collecting toads are the incredibly fun. Keep up the great work Intelligent Systems, I know the next game will be even more astounding, oh, I cant wait!    … Expand
  50. bulbasaur234
    Jul 22, 2020
    9
    I love this game. I loved almost every aspect of the game and really enjoyed the story. If you haven’t played it yet I highly recommend it. The music is amazing and the open world is just so pretty. I like how this game takes some darker undertones and gives the game some emotion. Please if you haven't played the game and you like mario games, get this game.
  51. RichiBP
    Jul 20, 2020
    8
    Es un juego muy simpático, una historia carismática, el soundtrack no es su punto mas fuerte, pero es muy divertido. es una lastima por las restricciones de creatividad, pero los de inteliggent system lo han hecho bien con las cartas que tenían.
    tengo fe de que el RPG vuelva a paper mario luego de la disolusion de Alpha Dream.
  52. OnStandBy
    Sep 19, 2020
    3
    I loved Paper Mario series, but this one is a huge disappointment.
    Visually and musically the game is great, but that's all I like in it.
    The new combat system is ok but I don't really like it, not really interesting imho. There's two major issues : First, Olivia. I just hate her so much. She's always commenting everything happening in the game and it's really annoying. She switch with    I loved Paper Mario series, but this one is a huge disappointment.
    Visually and musically the game is great, but that's all I like in it.
    The new combat system is ok but I don't really like it, not really interesting imho.
    There's two major issues :
    First, Olivia. I just hate her so much. She's always commenting everything happening in the game and it's really annoying. She switch with the poorest jokes to the most obvious advice like : "A key ! Maybe we can use it on a door ?" when there's the **** door in front of the key. She take all the place in the game and it brings me to the second point :
    Mario is brain dead. He's not reacting to anything to the point it's not a Paper Mario game but Origami Olivia. He just fight or do what Olivia tells him to.
    I could also talk about Mario getting stronger only by buying weapons or finding random health bonuses, worthless coins.

    To keep it simple : This game doesn't have a Paper Mario soul, it's more like a slow paced puzzle-rhythm game that make you want to play the original Paper Mario.    … Expand
  53. Avenge49
    Jul 23, 2020
    9
    This is my first paper Mario game, so far this is a really fun game. The world is fun to explore, the battle systems is alright. It’s not bad, but over time it kinda gets annoying. If you never played a paper Mario game I would say get this game,
  54. MatthewDavisMed
    Jul 24, 2020
    8
    It's definitely flawed, but I feel Paper Mario The Origami King is still a fun adventure even if it feels less of an RPG and more of a turned based combat/puzzle game.
  55. Charlieboy666
    Feb 22, 2021
    0
    Worst Paper Mario I've played. Each battle gets more tedious with all the puzzle nonsense and the game goes on for way too long. Terrible game.
  56. Azantix
    Jul 23, 2020
    9
    Paper Mario proves that you don’t have to be an RPG to be a fantastic story, action adventure with brilliant writing, humor, and art direction to keep it together. Paper Mario: The Origami King is brilliant in every conceivable way.
  57. soniction
    Jul 24, 2020
    9
    Interesting and brain-burning,always looking for things,long,unexpected things will come out.
  58. Bashbach1
    Aug 11, 2020
    2
    Beautiful visuals, interesting story, but horrible game. The battle system is hell, I feel almost like Nintendo decided to torture us by making it even worst then the last game. It’s way to long and at the same time way to short, the battles took up 80 percent of the game making it feel like a never ending relationship with a predator, but the other 20 percent was filled with some “cool”Beautiful visuals, interesting story, but horrible game. The battle system is hell, I feel almost like Nintendo decided to torture us by making it even worst then the last game. It’s way to long and at the same time way to short, the battles took up 80 percent of the game making it feel like a never ending relationship with a predator, but the other 20 percent was filled with some “cool” stuff but just not enough stuff to make it feel finished. Everyone wanted that hole RPG feel thing, and they didn’t add that showing that Nintendo is as bad as ever when it comes to listening to fans. And the jokes get old in 10 seconds.… Expand
  59. gonzalo94
    Jul 31, 2020
    10
    Es un juego entretenido y merece mas reconocimiento. Jueguenlo y saquen sus propias conclusiones, de mi parte lo recomiendo.
  60. Pmango0312
    Dec 4, 2020
    4
    Origami king pains me. It makes me cringe inside because of what it could have been. The game is beautiful, the story is charming and engaging, and the environments are awesome, but the combat. **** It is grossly bad and boring. It's like they wanted to overcomplicate everything in the game, just so they could justify the point of the ring system. There is just no reason to battle is thatOrigami king pains me. It makes me cringe inside because of what it could have been. The game is beautiful, the story is charming and engaging, and the environments are awesome, but the combat. **** It is grossly bad and boring. It's like they wanted to overcomplicate everything in the game, just so they could justify the point of the ring system. There is just no reason to battle is that it rewards you with confetti (which is littered all over the environment) and coins (which are also found everywhere). I just don't get Nintendo sometimes. I tried so hard to like this game, but I just couldn't.… Expand
  61. GoodGamesFan
    Aug 19, 2020
    0
    the battle system is lame and the puzzles in the battle are too easy and pointless and they just feel like a filler the overworld is huge yes but its empty and the ending is just so bad and luigi is just so dumb and useless and the partner are lame as heck they are temporary and they most of the time miss there attack so they are useless and the character design is just lazy and the jokethe battle system is lame and the puzzles in the battle are too easy and pointless and they just feel like a filler the overworld is huge yes but its empty and the ending is just so bad and luigi is just so dumb and useless and the partner are lame as heck they are temporary and they most of the time miss there attack so they are useless and the character design is just lazy and the joke get old and boring very quickly because they all about paper and the colors arnt vibrant and not fun to watch and because there is no exp there is no insensitive to battle and the reward to battle is coins and confetti which you can get literally every where els so the battles are pointless and there is way too mush problems with the game that keep you from enjoying the game… Expand
  62. Michael64
    Aug 10, 2020
    10
    This game is simply amazing! Creativity throughout the whole game! The final boss and game ending are great, and it is one of the best endings in Mario! Please don't listen to the TTYD fans who are hating on this game.
  63. Batman070896
    Aug 10, 2020
    10
    I just love this game, the design, the characters, and the dialogs are just fun. Lovely game that brings my childhood back to me.
  64. Yiuky
    Jul 19, 2020
    9
    I like It, but the game fighter repeat ALL The TIME, but the exploration is a lot of fun
  65. Aidswayz
    Jul 24, 2020
    8
    This is probably the most splitting Paper Mario to date, old fans versus the new fans. The people that just want a true sequel to TTYD and people who just like modern Paper Mario. I find myself in the middle, while it would be nice to have a "TRUE" sequel to TTYD, that didn't stop me from really enjoying Color Splash. While yes, the combat was not the best in CS, the personality andThis is probably the most splitting Paper Mario to date, old fans versus the new fans. The people that just want a true sequel to TTYD and people who just like modern Paper Mario. I find myself in the middle, while it would be nice to have a "TRUE" sequel to TTYD, that didn't stop me from really enjoying Color Splash. While yes, the combat was not the best in CS, the personality and writing in the game were just so enjoyable. When I started Origami King I went in hoping to get back that same awesome feeling of loving a Paper Mario game and I most certainly did! The combat isn't necessarily "combat" but I do really like puzzles and the game most certainly scripted that itch. The writing is hilarious with Olivia becoming one of the most adorable Mario character's ever in my opinion and also becoming one of my favorite Mario Characters too. The boss fights are sometimes genius and sometimes a real thinker of what to do. The narrative isn't anything mind-blowing and it just comes down to "Bad guy did this, go collect these" shtick all over again and the lore isn't amazing either but the personality in this game just shines through and I had a goofy grin on my face whenever someone had a word of dialogue for just how good the writing is! The graphics are amazing whether or not you don't like the "PAPER' of Paper Mario becoming more and more of a thing. I overall had a blast with this game and would only recommend it to people who love Paper Mario and not just holding onto the old games, puzzle solvers like myself, and people new to the series. It's definitely worth the price and I am very satisfied with my purchase.… Expand
  66. Greenapple1990
    Aug 17, 2020
    10
    Ok I really loved this game and just didn't agree with the criticisms of the battle system (which seemed to be the main issue with a lot of people?) The puzzles at the beginning of each battle were challenging enough that you would feel super smart when you got it - and some were hard enough that you had to skip / get help from the toads. I felt like there was a really good balance.

    In    Ok I really loved this game and just didn't agree with the criticisms of the battle system (which seemed to be the main issue with a lot of people?) The puzzles at the beginning of each battle were challenging enough that you would feel super smart when you got it - and some were hard enough that you had to skip / get help from the toads. I felt like there was a really good balance.

    In terms of the lack of EXP that people were upset about - I still felt like Mario was getting stronger throughout the game - your health bar and strength would increase, you would collect more and more coins which enabled you to extend the time you spent on puzzles (which was handy as they get harder as the game goes on) and you can also get accessories which increase your health, decrease damage taken etc. So it did still feel a lot like an RPG to me - albeit an unconventional one.

    All the other stuff was fantastic:

    beautiful, sharp, colourful and varied environments

    great environmental puzzles and secrets everywhere

    Hilarious, witty dialogue

    So much variety in gameplay. Sometimes youre solving puzzles, youre in a quiz show, dogfight battle in midair, QTEs, fleeing hordes of goombas, real time battles, hunting ninjas in a theme park etc etc

    I just finished my playthrough at 35 hours last night and feel sad about it! An adventure I really enjoyed and will play again one day.    … Expand
  67. TbonetheSecond
    Aug 14, 2020
    1
    I don't know where to start. Ignore the paid reviewers claiming "It takes a new twist on the classic RPG style." This is in no way an RPG or similar to TTYD for that matter. The combat as you have probably seen is puzzle based and Man it is so tedious. The boss fights ramp that tediousness up by literally making your whole turn obsolete if you didn't guess which random attack or mechanicI don't know where to start. Ignore the paid reviewers claiming "It takes a new twist on the classic RPG style." This is in no way an RPG or similar to TTYD for that matter. The combat as you have probably seen is puzzle based and Man it is so tedious. The boss fights ramp that tediousness up by literally making your whole turn obsolete if you didn't guess which random attack or mechanic you are required to use. Honestly speaking, I had fun with the combat for probably the first 12 encounters and now dread even playing the game further after beating the 3 level boss. Is it hard? No. Is it time consuming, way more then you think. The humor and writing is great, probably the best in the Paper Mario series... but the lack of a compelling combat system, interesting hub world and just freedom in general, doesnt make up for it. This Paper Mario game feel like more of a chore then a fun experience. I regret my purchase and continue to be disappointed with the direction taken with this series. I give it a 1/10, because of how overrated I feel this game is. The 10/10s will never make Nintendo and their developers change their ways... if anything it will only encourage them to create poorly designed games… Expand
  68. Kallene
    Aug 16, 2020
    10
    A really good game! Better than the other paper mario games! A lot of pepole don't like the fighting but i like it!
  69. SergioMX84
    Aug 2, 2020
    10
    English / Español:

    A true visual masterpiece. The music is amazing and this game will undoubtedly be the winner of the Game Art Direction award at the next Game Awards, it is unrivaled, as Cuphead was in 2017. This is the game we needed for this 2020, it is full of creativity in all aspects. The script is very good, and it is full of very funny dialogues that will make you take    English / Español:

    A true visual masterpiece. The music is amazing and this game will undoubtedly be the winner of the Game Art Direction award at the next Game Awards, it is unrivaled, as Cuphead was in 2017.

    This is the game we needed for this 2020, it is full of creativity in all aspects. The script is very good, and it is full of very funny dialogues that will make you take screenshots all the time. This Paper Mario is not typecast in just one genre, it has a bit of everything and that is its strength, for that reason The Origami King never bores you. The battle system is very ingenious and challenging, the mechanics to position the enemies before hitting them is something very original and entertaining, the countdown adds challenge and also, the use of weapons and objects during battles give it that touch of RPG game.

    Don't worry if you are not adept at strategy, you can always ask the Toads in the stands for help or spend money to increase the countdown. The best thing about the game are the boss battles.

    The main story will take you around 30 hours, in this game there is a lot to collect so you can entertain yourself a bit more looking for all the hidden Toads and trophies.

    This is the type of games in which it is noted that the developers had complete freedom when creating the game, you are going to come across such rare and funny situations, that make the adventure very entertaining. What a great surprise this game has been. If you have a Nintendo Switch, go buy this game.

    Una verdadera obra maestra en el apartado audiovisual. La música está increíble y este juego será sin lugar a dudas el ganador del premio Game Art Direction en los próximos Game Awards, no tiene rival, como lo fue Cuphead en 2017.

    Este es el juego que necesitábamos para este 2020, está lleno de creatividad en todos los aspectos. El guión es muy bueno, y está lleno de diálogos muy divertidos que te harán tomar capturas todo el tiempo.

    Este Paper Mario no se encasilla en solo un género, tiene un poco de todo y ese es su fuerte, por esa razón The Origami King nunca te aburre.

    El sistema de batalla es muy ingenioso y retador, la estrategia para posicionar a los enemigos antes de golpearlos es algo muy original y entretenido, la cuenta regresiva le añade reto y además, el uso de armas y objetos durante las batallas le dan ese toque de juego RPG. No te preocupes si no eres hábil para la estrategia, siempre podrás pedir ayuda a los Toads que están en las gradas o gastar dinero para aumentar la cuenta regresiva. Eso sí, lo mejor del juego son las batallas contra los jefes.

    La historia principal te tomará alrededor de una 30 horas y bueno, en este juego hay mucho que coleccionar así que te puedes entretener un rato más buscando a todos los Toads y trofeos escondidos. Este es uno de juegos en los que se nota que los desarrolladores tuvieron completa libertad a la hora de crear el juego, te vas a topar con situaciones tan raras y divertidas a la vez, que hacen muy entretenida la aventura.

    Qué gran sorpresa ha sido este juego. En fin, un juego obligatorio para todos los poseedores de la Nintendo Switch.    … Expand
  70. Makesme
    Jul 20, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best paper mario game since super paper mario I feel this game is very similar to super paper mario that had a new genre that bieng a platformer and this is an action adventure game I hated sticker star thought color splash was good with the story bad with battles and good on jokes I don’t like how games this year get review bombed because of one island per console or Joel dying I got why Pokémon was review bombed that game was just straight up awful but this game is the 4th good paper mario game… Expand
  71. GamingSpreeMX
    Jul 20, 2020
    8
    El juego es bellísimo en su justa razón. A decir verdad, la música y el aspecto visual están en su punto, se disfruta bastante. Las batallas son muy crípticas al principio y de cierta manera innecesarias ya que el juego carece de elementos RPG a diferencia de sus predecesores.

    Las mecánicas de juegos previos se tradujeron a medias en esta entrega por lo que está infinitamente por encima    El juego es bellísimo en su justa razón. A decir verdad, la música y el aspecto visual están en su punto, se disfruta bastante. Las batallas son muy crípticas al principio y de cierta manera innecesarias ya que el juego carece de elementos RPG a diferencia de sus predecesores.

    Las mecánicas de juegos previos se tradujeron a medias en esta entrega por lo que está infinitamente por encima de Sticker Star y Color Splash. De entre los seis, se encuentra fácilmente a la misma altura de Super Paper Mario.

    Altamente recomendable.    … Expand
  72. Guillermothecow
    Jul 22, 2020
    9
    Es buen juego pero no es un paper mario de toda la vida pues ya sabes no te esperes un RPG porque no va a ver
  73. ThisGuy_412
    Jul 23, 2020
    9
    I got 100% and had a blast doing it, definitely the best completion experience in the series. I never felt the need to use a guide, despite the fact that some moments can be pretty challenging. If you're looking for a fun action adventure with strong puzzle elements TOK is a game you should consider checking out.
  74. Tri9322
    Jul 23, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So, I just finished this game and loved it. I want to leave this to share my thoughts and also combat people giving the game a zero because of one specific reason or other. The game is really fun. First of all, the music and graphics are amazing. The story is pretty good, though I feel the yellow streamer or "world 3" was a bit long and tedious (thus the 9 instead of ten). The jokes were all pretty funny, and while a few might have been lost in translation, there are plenty of good ones. The combat seems to be something people don't like, so here are my thoughts on that. I want to preface this with saying, I think that even if the combat was completely awful, one aspect of the game shouldn't define your entire review and cause you to give it a zero. I enjoyed the combat, and it did get a bit repetitive sometimes. Here's the thing, it's pretty optional. You can just not engage a lot of enemies, and the ones you have to are fun. A lot of people complain that you don't get anything from battles other than worthless coins. On that, I think coins aren't worthless. You need a lot of them, for weapon buying, for finding collectibles, for side quests, and what not. There was not a single point in the whole game where I thought I had too many coins with nothing to use them on, and several times thought "I need more coins". Overall, the game is really fun, the story is sweet and actually made me cry at one point, and the jokes land for all ages. A great game.… Expand
  75. FadedGiant
    Jul 24, 2020
    8
    First and foremost, this is a good PAPER MARIO game. If you are looking for a complex or challenging RPG, don't stop here. If you're asking me, classifying this series as an RPG is not correct. Paper Mario games are adventure games, in my opinion. Go play an MMO or Divinity if that's the itch you want to scratch. If you are looking for a relaxing stress-free game as a break, or if you areFirst and foremost, this is a good PAPER MARIO game. If you are looking for a complex or challenging RPG, don't stop here. If you're asking me, classifying this series as an RPG is not correct. Paper Mario games are adventure games, in my opinion. Go play an MMO or Divinity if that's the itch you want to scratch. If you are looking for a relaxing stress-free game as a break, or if you are just a casual gamer, maybe check it out.

    For what the series is, a goofy spin on the Mario universe, Origami King does not disappoint. I came in expecting a slightly cringe, pun-filled, and charming story and that's what I got it.

    However, I am giving an 8 because of the lack of difficultly. Yes, I know I mentioned not looking for a challenge here, but hear me out. There could have been a FAIR (not unforgiving) challenge with the battle system they have designed under all of the hand holding Nintendo insists on including in Mario Games. While I understand this game was designed for children, I think an assist mode implemented similar to Mario Odysseys would have helped the game get a better score from me. I finished the game charmed, but lacking a sense of accomplishment.

    An optional "assist pad" or something during challenging fights instead of littering your path with hearts when your HP is low would have been better. I beat every boss first try. The battle system could have offered a fulfilling challenge and feel that it was wasted to avoid rage quits.

    The game is quick to just "give away" puzzles, too. If a puzzle takes you more than a few minutes to solve, the game will just spoil it for you, or give an option to pay to skip it with coins. On one occasion, I accidentally spent 3000 coins on a skip while spamming A during a dialogue sequence and felt very salty for awhile.

    Regardless, this is no Color Splash. If you are a Paper Mario fan, don't skip this one!    … Expand
  76. Dario0258
    Jul 24, 2020
    9
    The story is beautiful and original. The game is really funny to play, but sometimes the combat system is annoying. There are a lot of emotional and surprising moments that made me smile during the adventure. I highly recommend playing it 9/10
  77. Peable
    Jul 29, 2020
    2
    Pros: Amazing graphics, amazing music. Good yet pretty sad story.

    Cons: The combat system. Man, that thing is bad. Even the game makers knew it was bad, so they give you a puzzle solver option after the first act so you dont have to fight! Boss battles arent fun either. The battles dont give XP or make you stronger, they just throw gold coins at you so you can buy more failing    Pros: Amazing graphics, amazing music. Good yet pretty sad story.

    Cons: The combat system. Man, that thing is bad. Even the game makers knew it was bad, so they give you a puzzle solver option after the first act so you dont have to fight!

    Boss battles arent fun either.

    The battles dont give XP or make you stronger, they just throw gold coins at you so you can buy more failing items.

    The game is overall not even close in quality to the very first 2 paper mario games, which were truly great.

    Pass your way, fellow gamer    … Expand
  78. Samusgamgee
    Jul 30, 2020
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was a huge fan of the original two Paper Mario games (and even Super Mario RPG for SNES) but I would not recommend this title. The combat system is tedious and boring. There is no leveling system and there are no experience points to be gained. The boss designs are all based on office supplies: hole punch, rubber band man, etc. Olivia and her brother are both annoying. The music and art style are nice but that’s it. Go back to what works Nintendo! Make Mario RPG’s great again!… Expand
  79. RougailSaucisse
    Aug 2, 2020
    9
    ++
    Awsome ost
    Great boss Funny game
    Great graphics
    Various gameplay(real time battle...)
  80. Madpenguin64
    Aug 2, 2020
    10
    I enjoyed every part of this game, it just sucks that everyone leaves bad reviews just because it isn’t The Thousand Year Door. If it isn’t an RPG, don’t criticise it for not having xp or party members. And no, battles aren’t pointless as they give you coins and confetti, which are important things in this game. This game doesn’t deserve 6.8.
  81. Stravvberry
    Aug 5, 2020
    10
    Really loved the game, i think it's one of my favorite along with super paper mario (the story was beautiful ngl)
    Even if they stepped away from the rpg-like style, they proved that they can be pretty original, and yes, it was a simple story but it was capable of making me cry. The music was a masterpiece, and even if we had less companions they were really well made. I feel that olivia,    Really loved the game, i think it's one of my favorite along with super paper mario (the story was beautiful ngl)
    Even if they stepped away from the rpg-like style, they proved that they can be pretty original, and yes, it was a simple story but it was capable of making me cry. The music was a masterpiece, and even if we had less companions they were really well made. I feel that olivia, bobby, professor toad, junior and kamek were perfect, but captain t. Ode could be used more, he was an interesting character. Also they could have made king olly appear more. A part from this things i really enjoyed the game and the battle sistem. I'm already feeling nostalgic! Can't wait for the next paper mario game!
    Also, PROTECT OLIVIA AND BOBBY!!!    … Expand
  82. BobDaRage
    Aug 7, 2020
    10
    Such a cool game. Dont believe the others, they are just salty. Amazing sound track, writing, humour, bosses, Gameplay, design and graphics. Amazing
  83. jbernier
    Aug 7, 2020
    10
    I am a huge fan of Paper Mario 64 and PM: TTYD, they are in my top 5 favorite games. I was so excited when this game came out because I was hoping that it would be a return to form! As we all know that didn't happen and from what I heard about the game I was so sad/mad that they didn't want to recreate those amazing experiences and it seemed like they were doing all the wrong thingsI am a huge fan of Paper Mario 64 and PM: TTYD, they are in my top 5 favorite games. I was so excited when this game came out because I was hoping that it would be a return to form! As we all know that didn't happen and from what I heard about the game I was so sad/mad that they didn't want to recreate those amazing experiences and it seemed like they were doing all the wrong things (keeping a weird battle system, no real partners, no star points or RPG element, no badges, no unique characters just toads galore) and I decided I'd skip the game as a boycott. I ended up getting a copy as a gift from a good friend who knows I love Paper Mario and didn't have a choice keeping it, felt bad telling them i wanted to skip it and....

    I, LOVE, THIS, GAME. Sure it IS NOT a return to form in anyway, but it's still a fantastic game full of wonderful surprises. The world is SO picturesque, probably one of the most beautiful Mario worlds EVER created, I have to say whoever was part of developing the art for this game NEEDS a raise. The music is beautiful and makes the world come to life. The dialogue is SO SO SMART and funny. I am having such a good time playing this game, it's so colorful and happy, it's almost like a therapy that's well needed in times like these! The puzzles and platforming are great and I even got into the new battle system. Honestly speaking, had they made this exact game but kept the old battle system it would be my favorite Paper Mario by far. it has CHARM and SOOO MUCH LIFE to it. I just can't explain it, please don't boycott it for no reason, TRY, THIS, GAME!!!! I don't think you'll be disappointed!    … Expand
  84. Alice_whitetale
    Aug 7, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is amazing, I loved the music of many scenarios at the same time as the battle mechanics that it had, of course, at first it is a bit uncomfortable, but as you continue to advance the story, you learn and improve making it very fun the gameplay.… Expand
  85. joaoavena
    Aug 10, 2020
    10
    It deserves more de 6.8. And thats right. Pretty damn good game you people.
  86. SneezingRicksha
    Aug 11, 2020
    10
    After playing The Origami King once I though that it was great but not on the level of Thousand Year Door as I remembered it. After playing TTYD again to refresh my memory, I’ve come to the conclusion that The Origami King is actually the best in the series. It fixes so much that I didn’t realise was irritating about TTYD, it’s definitely a superior game in almost every aspect.
  87. Screenxx
    Aug 11, 2020
    10
    How could anyone make this style of mechanics .
    It is wonderful game , they even spent time on making songs!!
  88. MasterDni
    Aug 12, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. That game is my favorite game and even the Final Boss and the part where Bobby dies are incredibly good and detailed made.… Expand
  89. tristanvhuizen
    Aug 12, 2020
    10
    I really loved this game. The storyline was so compelling. I loved the characters. And the game itself, with all the mechanics, were super enjoyable.
  90. caca2009
    Aug 25, 2020
    10
    El juego esta piola compralo y si no te gusta el sistema de batallas y por eso no quieres comprar el juego no hay problema pero si lo tienes y te arrepentiste de comprarlo ve acostumbrándote al sistema de batalla xd
  91. Droland
    Aug 16, 2020
    3
    Good story but the combat system is so awful the game is painful to play. I actively avoid normal enemy's and combat is plain dreadful.
  92. Williamhvx
    Aug 16, 2020
    10
    This game rock the combat was weird but ignotavive the graphics are amazing and the music rocks!
  93. Oliphaunt89
    Aug 21, 2020
    4
    Charming aesthetic and entertaining comedy but let down quite spectacularly by the combat that feels like it was designed inside of five minutes by an intern who had recently received a blow to the head. Add to this the obtuse exploration system that simply does not make this 2d style work in a 3d environment and what you're left with is yet another missed opportunity for a fun Mario Game.Charming aesthetic and entertaining comedy but let down quite spectacularly by the combat that feels like it was designed inside of five minutes by an intern who had recently received a blow to the head. Add to this the obtuse exploration system that simply does not make this 2d style work in a 3d environment and what you're left with is yet another missed opportunity for a fun Mario Game.
    Nintendo, sort yourselves out and remaster Ocarina of Time for the Switch already.    … Expand
  94. Trayvon69
    Aug 22, 2020
    0
    This is definitely the worst Mario game that has been developed. The only good aspect of the game and the thing that gets it attention are the cartoony graphics. Other than that this games is extremely slow and drawn out. The battles are a huge annoyance and pointless. Please try it out before you buy it so you can truly see how bad it is all of the good ratings are from people in denialThis is definitely the worst Mario game that has been developed. The only good aspect of the game and the thing that gets it attention are the cartoony graphics. Other than that this games is extremely slow and drawn out. The battles are a huge annoyance and pointless. Please try it out before you buy it so you can truly see how bad it is all of the good ratings are from people in denial of buying such a lousy game.… Expand
  95. Geoshi
    Aug 25, 2020
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Paper Mario The Origami King while a decent game on it's own it still suffers a lot of problems with the previous two games.

    PROS:

    -The soundtrack

    -The visual art style, though reused from Color Splash

    -Some good moments, charm, funny and good character personality

    -Bowser not being the main villain, in fact not even a boss at all but your ally.

    -No World Map and interconnected open areas.

    -Olivia is a likable character than Kersti and Huey.

    -Luigi has a big role.

    CONS:

    -Battles are boring, repetitive, and still unreasonable, you may as well avoid them because you can find tons of coins and confetti in the overworld, besides even from battles you get way too much. The battle system is repetitive and tedious. The attacking variety is lacking with a lack of upgrades too.

    -Lack of NPCs, just generic Toads and Bowser's minions (only on your side because of the Folded Soldiers). Paper gimmick of original characters, Not even Yoshis (which were in Color Splash, but are hostile to you, minus the green one), Penguins, Bob-omb Buddies Piantas, Nokis, Odyssey NPCs, etc.

    -Partners are very generic in design, They are also very useless because, besides Professor Toad, they have no overworld interaction, They are just Ai and only attack at random chances and they are overpowered and just added for the heck of it. They can't be kept for each chapter.

    -Bosses are mostly just generic office tools and paper you can buy at a dollar store. The worst way to introduce new bosses in the weak modern era of Paper Mario.

    -Enemy variety is lackluster and some are overly hidden from other enemies. There are new ones but only appear in Bowser's Castle and they are gone after you beat it.

    -Aside from Chapter 2, The worlds are your usual Mario worlds. (Grass, Desert, Beach, Sky)

    -King Olly is the worst villain out of all general and Paper Mario villains. His motives were just getting a little squiggle writing on his body by his creator and with it to remind him of being a good king and he gets so enraged and wants to destroy every Toad all over it. He also lacks having any screentime.

    -No intermissions like the first 3 games after a chapter are beaten.

    -Mario has no voice lines like in TTYD and SPM, just sound effects yet Luigi, Peach, Bowser, and Toads can have voice clips oddly.

    -Over constant use of Paper gimmicks and jokes again which has gotten very stale. Paper Mario was not about being paper, it was meant to look like a pop-up book with a 2D art style to reflect being a storybook, it was just a visual aesthetic of making the world look alive and cartoony, not being about crafts which disrespect Ryota Kawade's vision for the series. Also while Mario was fallen down like paper and leaves falling that was more of a visual gag because once he lands, he's still hurt. Curses which turn into paper forms from TTYD weren't Mario's own powers they were cursed upon him when unlocking and finding the black chests

    -No replayability.

    -Lack of sidequests.

    -Some empty level design

    -Worst of all, to 102% the game, you need to NOT use accessories and get NO Game Overs and the reward isn't worth it at all, You get no reward for fin
    You aren't even given a heads up for it and if you make that mistake and find out like what you're reading here, You have the beat the entire game all over again if you make one slip up with those tasks. Horrible game design for completionists to do.

    This game is still not a proper return to form and neither is this game a true RPG either which is what Paper Mario was always about at its core.
    The Paper Mario series needs a different and better team that either brings back the original staff from the original two Paper Mario games or get a brand new better team that can put more care into the series. Especially bringing back the original Chief Director, Ryota Kawade from the first three Paper Mario games. Taro Kudo, Risa Tabata and most especially Kensuke Tanabe need to be removed from this series because they're tone-deaf to the fans and prefer only their way of which backfires and Kensuke Tanabe has alienated the Paper Mario fans Even his interviews were disgusting to read because he thinks changing the gameplay system will fix everything. Paper Mario suffers from having both an inconsistent identity and gameplay which hurts the series branding and core. So in that conclusion why fix what the first two games did great on? SPM may have removed the turn-based battles, but it at least had RPG elements and especially leveling up and the best story in the Mario series of all with tons of spark. The Origami King is just another baby-step from Sticker Star and Color Splash little improvements which is not a proper way of addressing criticism. At this point, the Paper Mario series is dying.    … Expand
  96. Kfdhgdd
    Sep 17, 2020
    0
    This game felt like the developers were screwing with me the entire time. At every turn there's something to slow you down from progressing through the "game" which is just a chore. The bosses are probably the only half fun part of this game and even that is a stretch. Do me a favor and don't buy this game, don't support a **** game studio that CLEARLY doesn't give a damn what kind ofThis game felt like the developers were screwing with me the entire time. At every turn there's something to slow you down from progressing through the "game" which is just a chore. The bosses are probably the only half fun part of this game and even that is a stretch. Do me a favor and don't buy this game, don't support a **** game studio that CLEARLY doesn't give a damn what kind of absolute garbage they push out.… Expand
  97. Ethan_N
    Nov 24, 2020
    7
    An extremely mediocre game that has some enjoyable aspects but also makes some very poor decisions in direction and battle system.
  98. Prittii
    Jan 6, 2021
    1
    I loved RPG paper marios and was hoping for an RPG, but what I’ve got is this visually ugly game (seriously, some people think these are nice graphics??? Overly colourful, it looks like made 30 years ago), the most boring fighting system I’ve ever seen, a tiring soundtrack... basically, I like nothing about this game! It’s the first Mario game I played that I gave up before ending. So sad,I loved RPG paper marios and was hoping for an RPG, but what I’ve got is this visually ugly game (seriously, some people think these are nice graphics??? Overly colourful, it looks like made 30 years ago), the most boring fighting system I’ve ever seen, a tiring soundtrack... basically, I like nothing about this game! It’s the first Mario game I played that I gave up before ending. So sad, because the RPG paper marios were absolutely amazing.
    I think most of these good reviews here are fakes. How can people like this game? I find it terrible and I’m not a picky gamer.    … Expand
  99. wumbo26848
    Dec 30, 2020
    0
    Has none of the charm that it’s predecessors possessed (excluding the abominable bore that was Sticker Star). And timed puzzles in the midst of battles that determine how much damage you do? What a dazzling idea. Nintendo should stop trying to continue the Paper Mario series at this point.
  100. Jofe
    May 15, 2022
    1
    Very bad. The battle system is awful and uninteresting. Only the OST is still good.
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Awards & Rankings

66
#66 Best Switch Game of 2020
2
#2 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 116 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 87 out of 116
  2. Mixed: 29 out of 116
  3. Negative: 0 out of 116
  1. Ninty Fresh Magazine
    Dec 21, 2020
    70
    The Origami King is a game greater than the sum of its parts. It reaffirms Nintendo’s status as king of innovation, even if the folds don’t quite align. [Issue #2, p.66]
  2. Universo Nintendo
    Dec 16, 2020
    95
    Paper Mario: The Origami King arrives on Nintendo Switch with very high quality graphics, a pleasant soundtrack and a plot full of very good humor, typical of the Paper Mario series. Among countless places to visit, bosses to win, and puzzles to solve, the game can be considered one of the best in the franchise.
    Read full review
  3. Hey Poor Player
    Oct 29, 2020
    70
    Paper Mario deserves better. The prestige of a Final Fantasy veteran appropriating his magic onto a handicraft world deserves better. The unforgettable wit and lovable cast expanding Mario lore deserves better. And we know that Intelligent Systems can do better than committing themselves to a misguided identity crisis.
    Read full review
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