Having played the Japanese version I have noticed significant improvements from what was a good idea but flawed game in Partners in Time: Mario + Luigi. The graphics look similar, with the sprites altered slightly. The fluidity of their movement was the first thing I noticed. Classic Mario music is back; renditions of your favorites and new tunes to keep it fresh. Voice actors do a great job; you’ll be impressed by Bowser, it’s the same quality voice used in Super Mario Galaxy (Wii) for him.
Of course the gameplay is what makes the game. So exciting and engrossing. The Mario Brothers can use the Hammer and Jump on top of their enemies. Bowser just punches his way around and uses his fire breath.
The Mario Bros. inside of Bowser are controlled in classic 2-d mode, while Bowser is in 3d Mode and you can access his by pressing Y. Unlike Partners in Time you aren’t continually using different characters. There is more continuity though it will switch up often enough to keep it interesting. Naturally, you know what to expect from your characters; the Mario Bros are going to be less powerful but faster and more versatile. Bowser’s power is immense though he lacks speed and can’t use combination moves.
Gameplay also features some neat things, like parts you can collect or minions to free for Bowser. Doing so will net you a special move that are fun to use, effective, and won’t become repetitive like in PiT. Fighting enemies doesn’t take as long as it used to, but they are more potent with a higher attack. If you are successful with your basic moves you will on occasion get a badge that will raise something, like your base stats or HP.
Some rares scenes you will be a huge version of Bowser. Bowser has new controls then; the stylus acts as the punching mechanism while breathing into the microphone is (you guessed it) fire breath.
Upwards of 20+ hours to complete this game with all the hidden treasures, beans, mushroom orbs, and all the other things you can collect. There are also optional bosses that will pose a threat you wouldn’t otherwise face. Along with the fast and fluid gameplay, the replay value is high. It’s simply one of the best Mario RPG type games yet, certainly the most innovative.
Reserve the game now – it will be stateside this coming week (Monday September 21st).
Buy Mario and Luigi Bowser’s Inside Story DS ( FREE SHIPPING )
Buy new or used Nintendo DSi Matte Black, Blue, White, Pink ( FREE SHIPPING )
Not sure if it’s better than the original Mario RPG but I’m having a great time!
Just ordered. Thank you for the update.
I like the Gamecube Mario RPG’s, but yea, the Super Nintendo Mario RPG is best.
This one is good too, though I just started. Thanks for the post to remind me to get it.
Thank you! You often write very interesting articles.
Are you a professional journalist? You write very well.
Yea I got this combo too. Can’t wait to play Mario & Luigi & Bowser :P
Bowser’s Inside story has been great. One of the best DS games…you even ‘breathe’ into the stylus which acts as Bowser’s fire breath!
I love mario games ever since the Nintendo, thanks..
I love super mario..
You are dead right!
Fab
Brill site, well done.