A scrapbooking delight: Paper Mario: The Origami King

IMAGINE MARIO is made out of paper and that he is placed in a world where origami is both evil and good – where confetti can fill holes in the game world, caused by giant, stomping papier mâché enemies. And then try to picture colourful streamers that are wrapped very tightly around Princess Peach’s castle, each taking you on an unravelling journey where you’ll battle enemies and bosses, and discover Vellumental powers that push your gameplay to the next level. This is Paper Mario: The Origami King for Nintendo Switch, a paper-craft universe with a sprawling, interconnected RPG world.

What really shines is how intuitive and creative the gameplay is. It doesn’t make a difference if you’re sailing the great sea or river rafting, on a train, or exploring vast sand dunes in a buggy with a professor in tow, the all-round level design is brilliant as you (eventually) work out which warp pipes lead where and why. You’ll also be rewarded for exploring every nook and cranny by picking useful items; helping crumpled-up toads; and uncovering puzzles, secrets and other collectibles. Mario has a folded-up sidekick called Olivia, who provides hints throughout the game as he attempts to stop the evil Origami King’s plan of folding up everything and everyone that gets in his way, one streamer at a time.

The detail that has gone into the script and soundtrack is nothing short of incredible. Each location has perfectly composed music and you’ll never find repetitive conversation. Even after you’ve rescued 200-odd toads, each one has something different – and mostly funny – to say.

The battle system is somewhat questionable. If you don’t smack

enemies in a timely fashion, make an escape, or if they’re just in the way, you’ll find yourself in a turn-based battle that involves strategically moving enemies around in patterns and then choosing which item to fight with. Every enemy presents a different challenge – ghosts disappear and spiky crabs can’t be jumped on without the right footgear. Boss battles work in the same way but are far more complicated – every boss is unique, and figuring out your attack system can be tricky. From folded up magical creatures to evil stationery, the battles get more enjoyable as you progress, and you’ll never quite look at a punch or elastic band in the same way ever again.

Paper Mario: The Origami King is a beautiful game that’s unexpectedly absurd but always delightful. You never quite know what will be coming around the next corner. A fishing mini game? A giant papier mâché squid? A song-and-dance routine? A coffee shop? There are so many memorable moments and locations that the variety the game offers alone will keep you hooked until you finally rescue the princess.

Above: As expected, its Mario’s job to save Princess Peach. The Mushroom Kingdom is under the control of an evil origami wizard bent on reshaping the world in his image. Your goal is simple: destroy the ribbons, save toads and get to the castle before it’s too late.