It’s hard to believe that it’s been nearly a decade since the last Mario & Luigi game, and even harder to believe that the series has never had a full console game. But Mario & Luigi: Brothership is changing all that. It’s not just a long-awaited return for the beloved RPG series, but also a chance for Nintendo to show that it can deliver a console experience. This game is a big deal and it’s important for Nintendo to get it right.
From what I experienced during a preview event, Nintendo is taking the task seriously. The game reintroduces the familiar timing-based combat and adds fresh animations that give the series a modern, cartoonish look. But Brothership also brings a new combat system that could redefine the series on its first console outing.
Set sail
Mario & Luigi: Brothership takes the Italian brothers on a sailing adventure to various islands. Players locate islands from the bow of their ship, shoot over to them via cannon, and find a plug to tether them to the ship. This not only allows for fast travel but also creates routes between connected islands, offering new sidequests and adventures.
The game’s open-world adventure isn’t entirely linear, allowing players to explore different islands at their own pace. The demo showcased the exploration of Twistee Island, a vibrant location where players embark on quests and engage in gameplay reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker.
The RPG combat in Brothership is both familiar and enhanced. Players must strategically time their attacks and dodges, with a new active mechanic that requires coordinated button inputs for both Mario and Luigi. The game’s new art style, featuring expressive animations, breathes life into the classic characters and adds a fresh, modern feel to the gameplay.
Plugging in
In the second part of the demo, players explore Merrygo Island, engaging in new puzzles and battles. A highlight of the game is the introduction of Battle Plugs, which allow players to unlock and use passive perks during combat. These plugs add a strategic layer to the gameplay, requiring players to plan their moves carefully and experiment with different combinations.
These new mechanics add depth and strategy to the combat system, making battles more engaging and rewarding. Players can experiment with different plug combinations and unlock new abilities as they progress through the game.
Overall, Mario & Luigi: Brothership breathes new life into the series with innovative gameplay mechanics and a fresh art style. The game launches on November 7 for the Nintendo Switch, and it’s shaping up to be a must-play for fans of the Mario RPG series.
