Best Paper Mario Game To Start With: A Beginner's Guide

Hey there, fellow gamers! So, you've heard the buzz about the Paper Mario series and you're wondering, "Which Paper Mario game should I play first?" That's a totally valid question, guys! This series is known for its unique art style, charming stories, and super fun, turn-based combat with a button-mashing twist. But with several installments out there, it can be a bit daunting to pick your entry point. Don't sweat it, though! I'm here to break it down and help you find the perfect first Paper Mario adventure for you. We'll dive into what makes each game special, what kind of experience you can expect, and ultimately, guide you to the best starting point. Get ready to fold into some awesome RPG fun!

Understanding the Paper Mario Vibe: What Makes It Special?

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of which game to pick, let's chat about what the Paper Mario series is all about. At its core, it's a series of role-playing games (RPGs) developed by Nintendo, set in the Mushroom Kingdom. But these aren't your typical, epic, sprawling RPGs. Paper Mario games have a distinct charm that sets them apart. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the visual style. Everything and everyone looks like they're made of paper – characters are flat, environments are like pop-up books, and animations have this fantastic, paper-folding quality. It's incredibly unique and adds a ton of personality. Beyond the aesthetics, the gameplay usually involves exploring the vibrant world, talking to quirky characters, solving light puzzles, and engaging in turn-based battles. But here's where the magic really happens: the combat isn't just about choosing an attack and watching it happen. Each action, from attacking to defending, often involves timing button presses or performing quick mini-games. This adds an interactive layer that makes every battle feel more engaging and skill-based. It's this blend of charming visuals, witty writing, and interactive combat that makes the Paper Mario series so beloved. So, when deciding which one to play first, think about what aspects of this unique formula appeal to you the most. Are you looking for a classic RPG experience with a twist, a story-driven adventure, or something with a bit more of a puzzle element? Knowing this will help steer you toward your ideal first dive into the paper world.

The Original Classic: Paper Mario (N64/Wii/Wii U)

Let's start at the very beginning, shall we? The Paper Mario game that kicked it all off was released on the Nintendo 64, later ported to the Wii via the Virtual Console, and then to the Wii U. If you're a purist or someone who appreciates where it all began, this is your go-to. This game is a fantastic introduction to the series' core mechanics and charm. You play as Mario, who, after Bowser throws Peach's castle off a cliff (ouch!), sets out on a quest to gather the seven Star Spirits to defeat Bowser and his minions. The story is classic Mario, but the execution is what makes it special. The world is filled with witty dialogue, memorable characters, and secrets to uncover. The battle system, as mentioned, is turn-based with action commands. You'll be pressing buttons, shaking the controller, and timing your attacks and defenses like a pro. What's great about the original is its accessibility; it’s a solid RPG that doesn't overwhelm you with complex systems. The puzzles are usually straightforward, and the quests guide you nicely. For newcomers, playing this first gives you a pure, unadulterated Paper Mario experience. You see the evolution of the series start from this point. However, the graphics, while charming for their time, are obviously dated compared to later entries. Finding a way to play the N64 version might also be a hurdle for some, though the Virtual Console and Wii U ports make it more accessible than you might think. If you value experiencing the series chronologically and appreciate a foundational RPG experience with a unique flavor, the original Paper Mario is a solid, if slightly older, choice for your first adventure.

The Beloved Sequel: Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (GameCube/Switch)

Ah, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. Just saying the name brings a smile to many fans' faces. Often hailed as the pinnacle of the series, this GameCube gem (now beautifully remastered for the Nintendo Switch!) is a strong contender for your first Paper Mario game. This title takes everything great about the original and dials it up to eleven. The story follows Mario as he searches for the seven Crystal Stars to unlock the titular Thousand-Year Door, rumored to hold treasure beyond imagination. But as usual with Mario adventures, things get complicated, and Bowser and a new, menacing X-Naut organization get involved. What makes The Thousand-Year Door so special is its incredible writing and world-building. The dialogue is hilariously witty, the characters are even more bizarre and lovable than in the first game, and the sheer creativity in the environments and scenarios is astounding. You'll visit places like a colorful town made of trash, a spooky ghost town, and a flamboyant pirate cove. The battle system refines the original's mechanics, introducing Super Guards for perfect defense and adding spectacular