Rediscovering Magic: An In-Depth Review of the Super Mario RPG Remake

When talking about remakes and remasters, few would have anticipated that Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars for the SNES would see the light of day once more. Known for its cult following, this game uniquely combines the whimsical world of Mario with the intricate mechanics of a 90s Square Enix RPG. As a fan of the original, the excitement of replaying this classic on the Switch came with a sense of cautious optimism—would it hold up after nearly 27 years?

Surprisingly, the developers chose to retain most of the original's charm and gameplay mechanics, reintroducing the beloved game to new audiences while igniting a wave of nostalgia for longtime fans. Let’s delve into what makes this remake a memorable and timeless experience.

The Perfect Blend of Mario and RPG

Super Mario RPG is an extraordinary mashup of Mario's classic universe and the RPG genre that Square Enix dominates. Here, Mario's mission to save the princess goes beyond defeating Bowser, leading him into a quest against a sentient, otherworldly sword.

This hybrid nature extends to its combat system, where time-based actions replace the traditional platforming as players engage in strategic battles to gain experience points. This cycle—conquering foes, leveling up, and unlocking new abilities—became a hallmark of the game, ensuring depth and replayability.

A Visual Remodel with Classic Roots

One of the first things that struck me was how much of the game’s world remains true to its origins, albeit with a refreshed visual appeal. The towns and their structures are almost identical, placing those familiar with the initial version at an advantage. This fidelity allows veteran players to use their muscle memory to breeze through numerous segments effortlessly.

This visual revamp extends to the minor details, where even hidden items stay in their original spots. It’s evident that the developers placed a great deal of care in preserving these intricate details, aiming to keep the homage authentic while providing a polished, modern experience.

Quirks and Challenges Intact

While revisiting Super Mario RPG, it’s delightful to encounter some of its eccentric and memorable aspects. Techniques like Geno Whirl's one-hit ability against Exor and Mario’s near-infinite Super Jump remain in the game, introducing newer players to some of the original’s most fascinating tactics.

These features demonstrate that the developers understood the essence of the original, ensuring it translated well into the remake. It’s a balancing act: maintaining the core mechanics while providing enough innovation to keep old and new players equally engaged.

Dialogue and Humor Revisited

There are moments when the dialogue in the remake differs significantly from the original, with some humorous references being altered or removed. Mallow’s comical Bruce Lee mention in the Forest Maze has been replaced, likely due to copyright concerns or respecting the legacy of the late icon.

Changes like these may seem minor, but they resonate deeply with returning fans who treasured these nostalgic nods. Nevertheless, the game compensates with fresh content and newer skits that capture its whimsical spirit, ensuring laughter and enjoyment throughout the adventure.

Brand-New Additions

Excitingly, this remake isn’t just a graphical overhaul; it introduces new elements that breathe additional life into the beloved classic. A brand-new secret boss awaits discovery, demanding players to explore far beyond the familiar paths.

Moreover, the integration of stunning cutscenes and new super moves adds layers of strategy, encouraging players to experiment with different team combinations. Such additions serve to enrich the gameplay experience, making it a worthy endeavor for both old fans and newcomers.

A Modern Touch to Combat

One particularly striking update in the remake is the improved combat mechanics. The time-based battle system feels even more responsive, offering smoother transitions and enhanced feedback during attacks and defenses. These improvements give players an edge in battle, making each encounter more dynamic and rewarding.

This revamped system ensures that the game remains as accessible as possible while still challenging players to hone their skills. This balance of accessibility and depth is crucial in maintaining an engaging and immersive RPG experience.

Musical Nostalgia and Fresh Tunes

The musical score remains one of the most enchanting elements of Super Mario RPG. The remake honors the original compositions while infusing them with richer and more dynamic arrangements. These enhanced tracks contribute to the nostalgic ambiance, transporting players back to the 90s.

Additionally, new tracks have been introduced to keep the auditory experience fresh. The music perfectly complements the vibrant visuals and engaging gameplay, creating an immersive environment that captivates players from start to finish.

For New and Returning Players Alike

The remake ensures that newcomers can experience the magic of Super Mario RPG for the first time. With Europe receiving a physical release, fans worldwide can now enjoy this classic gem, which was originally confined to America and Japan.

While the game retains much of its original charm, the added features and modernized elements make it equally compelling for returning players. It’s a nostalgic journey that offers both familiarity and a touch of newness, making it an enduring title in the RPG genre.

Conclusion: A Triumphant Return

Super Mario RPG’s return is a celebration of its legacy, proving that timeless gameplay and heartwarming stories can transcend generations. The developers’ meticulous attention to detail ensures that both old and new players can revel in the joy of this classic adventure.

With its thoughtful blend of nostalgia and innovation, Super Mario RPG succeeds in capturing the essence of what made the original so beloved.