Paper Mario: The Origami King

Developer Intelligent Systems

Publisher Nintendo

Format Switch

Release Out now

There’s a hole in the world. In fact, there are dozens: gaps where the Mushroom Kingdom’s paper wrapping has been torn away to reveal the wire framework beneath. Sometimes these impede your progress; elsewhere, they’re merely a cosmetic concern. You’ll be keen to fill them all either way, not least for the gleeful look on Mario’s face as you press ZR and another fistful of confetti erupts from his hands, steadily covering the cavity until the messy, rainbowhued pile magically becomes one with its surroundings. On the face of it, this would be seem to be little more than an analogue to repainting ’s blank spaces, though it never feels like menial work; rather, as in , you feel like you’re fixing a broken world. This single action is a reminder that Nintendo has a habit of making even the simplest things feel joyful, but it speaks volumes about the game itself, too. Here, Intelligent Systems – with the help of another outstanding universe while celebrating it in the most charming and colourful way possible.