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Stars indicate the most critically-acclaimed games.
Paper Mario
Universal acclaim
Based on 15 critic reviews
How did we calculate this?
Based on 53 votes
Read user comments
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Game Info
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Intelligent Systems
Genre(s): Role-Playing Game
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Release Date: February 5, 2001
Summary
The semi-sequel to the Square-developed Super NES title "Super Mario RPG," Paper Mario's Mushroom Kingdom characters are clearly its only features which are two-dimensional.
Also On Metacritic
GAMES: Paper Mario 2 Super Paper Mario
Cheat Codes & Hints: Adrenaline Vault Cheat Code Central Game Revolution GamePro GameSpot Happy Puppy IGN
Also On The Web: Official Game Site
What The Critics Said
All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more...
Games Radar UK (Pre-2006)
No matter what your tastes are, after just an hour in Mario's new world, we can guarantee that you?ll not want to move from your chair. Ever.
Read Full Review >Hot Games
Deceptively deep, this is the new blueprint for action RPGs and one of the last must-haves for the N64.
Read Full Review >Core Magazine
Easily one of the best games available for the N64, Paper Mario is a fantastic experience that shouldn't be missed.
Read Full Review >Daily Radar
If you're severely allergic to overly cute-and-cuddly games, take some Dramamine before heading off on Mario's adventure.
Nintendojo
While said story may not live up to the expectations of most RPG fans, or fans of Super Mario RPG, it is far better and more interesting than the typical 'stories' you have to endure in a Mario game.
Read Full Review >Da Gameboyz
With its light-hearted plot, loveable characters, innovative gameplay and perfectly fitting music, this game should appeal to anyone and everyone.
Electric Playground
What it does have is a great story, fun puzzles, and epic battles. Any RPG fan would be absolutely nuts to pass on Paper Mario.
Read Full Review >GameSpot
With stunning graphics, excellent sound, and extremely solid gameplay, Paper Mario is a quality game on all fronts.
Read Full Review >Gaming Maxx
With a standout graphical look to it, and the great traditional RPG style, Paper Mario is certainly one of the best RPG games out there.
Read Full Review >Gaming Age
Not only is Paper Mario a superb RPG, but it's also another quality N64 game that simply shouldn't be missed.
Read Full Review >IGN
Underneath its 2D surface, Paper Mario is a fantastically deep, intuitively designed, and wonderfully rewarding experience complete with enhanced takes on old-school turn-based fighting mechanics and a statistic system that would satisfy any RPG fanatic.
Read Full Review >Happy Puppy
Much like Journey's Greatest Hits CD, it takes the best of the '80s and serves up a timeless experience. It's a classic in the best sense of the word.
Read Full Review >GameShark
What makes the game so visually stunning is the multitude of graphical styles.
Read Full Review >Game Revolution
The story is delivered with a good dose of humor, taking occasional potshots at Mario's past. The familiarity of the world is one of the game's greatest assets, and Nintendo does a great job keeping its tradition alive.
Read Full Review >GamePro
Despite having a unique look, the visuals certainly aren't the highlight of Paper Mario. It's the fun adventure, mixing intuitive controls and straightforward gameplay that make this a great addition to the N64 library.
Read Full Review >What Our Users Said
The average user rating for this game is 9.3 (out of 10) based on 53 User Votes
Note: User votes are NOT included in the Metascore calculation.
Brad J gave it a10:
This is one heck of a game. I was lucky enough to buy this when I was younger, and have a lot of great memories with this game. It is just amazing. The story manages to be both very epic and incredibly humorous at the same time. The graphics were damn sweet for an N64 game, gameplay was boss! Battling is cool with timed button presses with attacks. Lot's of neat abilities as well. The game is lengthy as well, with lots of sidequests. You NEED to download this game on the virtual console. It's a steal for $10! One of the greatest N64 games, very underated. You owe it to yourself to buy this amazing game!
Fred T. gave it a10:
A classic. Still playing seven years from now. Smart, innovative, creative worlds, and fun.
Ben B gave it a10:
When I played this game I didn't even think about pokemon at all it has a complete different feel to it and Pokemon has brought in the dough for Nintendo and they have the right to make a game after Mario that is somewhat related and to draw people away from RPG games of other systems since Nintendo does not have that many.
Dylan S gave it a10:
Previous mario games, sadly, did not have much story involved. But, Paper Mario makes the story incredibly Epic, and started a series of more deep games after this. Not just other Paper Mario games, but the original descendants of Super Mario 64 [Such as Super Mario Sunshine and Mario Galaxy]. It takes days to finish, which is a good thing. And each time you play it, you can do it a different way [As you can focus and different strengths like badges and HP, I believe this is a form of RPG.] It also lasts to, as being a Nintendo 64 game - Many people still play this, 2 game consoles later after the N64. I believe this game deserves our full respect!
Cole W. gave it a10:
I just bought this for the Wii virtual console last week and I can't stop playing it! It is incredibly immersive and just plain fun!
Andrew D. gave it a10:
On my top 5 list of N64 games. I have downloaded this game on the wii virtual console, and spent 3 days straight of just playing. Very addictive and fun. Great turn-base and is not like pokemon where every 5 steps there is an enemy. After the finishing the storyline, I had lots of fun collecting badges and extras. I recommend a buy on N64, and the wii virtual console.
David D. gave it a10:
If you liked Super Mario RPG, you will fall in love with this game. RPG fans should check this title out.
