The concept of Paper Mario was for gamers to venture off in a scrolling pseudo-3D world inhabited by paper-thin characters mixed with RPG elements, and not a lot has changed for sequel, Paper Mario 2. Naturally the GameCube's capabilities will be presenting off more spectacular moments for this game to be once again a game for the ages. This will mean hordes of 2D enemies, plenty of 3D effects, gorgeous coloured lighting and enormous boss characters.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Paper Mario concept, it is essentially an RPG-style adventure in which Mario travels through stereotypical Super Mario worlds, talking to characters, buying items and collecting coins. The game’s battles are turn based, but involve a lot more interaction then regular RPG battles. Gamers select from a range of commands from the command ring, before then tapping a button/analogue movement at the correct time to inflict the maximum damage.
The new adventure brings back all those similar elements from the past Mario RPG adventures. When confronted by enemies in the wild you can avoid them, engage them, or strike first. Engaging in combat is simple –bump into them – however if you’re seeking the extra advantage you can easily jump on the enemy or smack them with your hammer, each dealing a different amount of damage. Of course the enemy can receive the upper hand if they engage you, allowing them to strike first.
The most welcomed addition to Paper Mario 2 is the appealing new means of combat showcased in the game. Instead of battling in your environment surroundings, Mario and team perform on a stage. What’s most appealing about this combat idea is that it all lays on the hands of how well you perform in your battles. If you play well you’ll earn more star power, which in return draws more people to watch his battles. The idea just isn’t for show though. After you’ve achieved enough star power crowd members will drop buckets onto enemy’s heads or they’ll throw out power ups. This all reflects on how well you play out your battles of course, perform poorly and the crowd will throw garbage at you or drop buckets on your head. On the other hand if you perform well, you’ll receive power ups and the crowd will drop buckets onto the enemies, on some occasions even making them dizzy.
From what has been said the sequel will concentrate more on Mario Party/Wario Ware-style mini-games after completion of each level. So far we've seen that you control Bowser in a race to the finish line mini-game. No doubt these mini-games will be the main way of obtaining decent coinage, which will in return allow you to buy Ability Badges.
As far as story goes, we’ve been told nothing. Although we can say that Paper Mario 2 will once again allow you to travel along side with a companion which will help you during your adventure. Each of these unique characters will have their own special powers to aid Mario during his adventure, who will also be able to team up with Mario during combat to deliver a more damaging attack on the enemy.
Paper Mario 2 not only pulls off some extremely attractive animation, but the artwork and visuals on the characters are absolutely spectacular. It’s the little details that's impressive though. The colour and detail is vibrant and really defines a perfect surrounding, which feels much like a beautiful picture book.
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