Playing with paper has never been this much fun...not even as complicated as origami!
Gameplay -
Run, jump, squish, break, and...flip?! Yeah, that's the basis of it. However, this game is a solid platformer and reminds us all why classic Mario was so much fun. Throw in the new abilities such as flipping into 3D from side scrolling and you have even more areas to explore.
The puzzles aren't very difficult and neither are the bosses. Don't get me wrong, this is actually a good thing for this game. The difficulty is just right and nothing is too hard, too easy, or too difficult to figure out. Using all your abilities in your aresenal will ensure you get through with few problems.
Still, the game is a little on the short side. Without the infrequent, annoying side missions suddenly thrown at you, the game would be even shorter. I can't help but feel that Nintendo added in some really unnecessary filler in order to prolong the gaming experience in order to lazily explain something about the story...sometimes things you just don't care about...
Characters all have their own personallity and motivation. From the main heros, to the protaginists, to the pixls, everyone speaks their own way. Instead of having voice acting, you get phonetically spelled words with how the characters would say the line...except for Mario, who is mute except his, "Let's go!" and the like. They gave Luigi lines, but not Mario...I thought this was odd.
Graphics-
Not uber, not mushy, just right. Each world has its own theme and even brings back memories of the first world of Super Mario Bros, the Choco Hills from Super Mario World, and even the Mole Cave from Super Mario RPG. There is even a world done entirely of "oversized pixels", which is impressive and funny.
The sprites are detailed enough to give you a happy feeling, but not so much that you jump up and down. Most enemies and characters don't go 3D even in 3D mode...so that's a huge let down. It's understandable, but the enemies who CAN flip with you are still side viewed in the 3D view.
Sound-
Well, it's a Mario game. The score is actually quite excellent with some familiar songs, and the original ones are catchy. Sound effects are equally impressive, but can get bothersome after hearing the flipping sound nine times on a level...
Overall-
This is a solid, must have game for any Mario fan and any one who has a Wii, period. Excellent platforming, RPG elements, and a hilarious cast of characters. Do yourself a favor and say, "I was there for Super Paper Mario!" You'll be sorry if you don't.