Nintendo’s Mario & Luigi: Brothership revives the beloved handheld RPG series on Switch, offering familiar gameplay with new twists in the ocean kingdom of Concordia.
As the Nintendo Switch enters its twilight years, the gaming giant is treating fans to a nostalgic journey with Mario & Luigi: Brothership. Set to launch on November 7th, this latest entry in the beloved RPG series marks a triumphant return after a nine-year hiatus. I had the opportunity to go hands-on with an early build of the game, and I’m excited to share my impressions of this charming adventure.
A Return to Familiar Territory
The Mario & Luigi series has always been known for its blend of gentle RPG mechanics, platforming elements, and humor. Brothership doesn’t stray far from this winning formula, offering longtime fans a comforting experience while introducing new players to its unique charm.
“We wanted to stay true to what makes Mario & Luigi special,” says a Nintendo representative who wishes to remain anonymous. “At the same time, we’ve introduced some fresh elements to keep things interesting for veteran players.”
New Setting, Classic Gameplay
Brothership transports players to Concordia, a vibrant ocean kingdom populated by quirky characters with appliance-like features. The game’s hub, Shipshape Island, serves as a floating base of operations from which players can chart their course through the game’s various levels.
During my playthrough, I encountered Snoutlet, a endearing creature that’s part piggy bank, part power socket. This blend of the familiar and the fantastical is a hallmark of the Mario & Luigi series, and it’s on full display in Brothership.
Dynamic Duo Mechanics
As always, the gameplay revolves around controlling both Mario and Luigi in tandem. While Mario takes the lead in overworld exploration, Luigi is never far behind, mimicking his brother’s actions.
The new “Luigi Logic” ability, activated with the L button, allows players to separate the brothers for puzzle-solving and collectible gathering. This mechanic adds a layer of depth to exploration and puzzle-solving, encouraging players to think about how the brothers can work together even when apart.
Turn-Based Battles with a Twist
Combat in Brothership remains turn-based, but with the series’ signature timed button presses adding a layer of engagement. Accurately timed attacks and defenses can significantly impact battle outcomes, keeping players on their toes.
The battle system is where the game really shines,” explains a fellow journalist who also attended the preview event. “It’s simple enough for newcomers to grasp quickly, but there’s enough depth to keep hardcore RPG fans engaged.”
New “Battle Plugs” system allows players to modify combat conditions, adding variety and strategic depth to encounters. As players progress, they’ll unlock the ability to craft custom Battle Plugs, further personalizing their approach to combat.
Brothership’s visuals pop on the Switch’s screen, with colorful environments and expressive character animations bringing the world of Concordia to life. The game’s art style strikes a balance between the cartoony charm of the Mario universe and the unique aesthetic of the ocean kingdom.
While my time with Brothership was enlightening, some questions remain. Nintendo has been tight-lipped about the development team, confirming only that some staff from previous entries are involved. The extent of their involvement and the identity of the primary developer remain a mystery.
Additionally, the full scope of the story and later-game abilities are still under wraps. Nintendo promises more revelations as we approach the November 7th release date.
As I wrapped up my preview session, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia mixed with excitement for what’s to come. Mario & Luigi: Brothership may not reinvent the wheel, but it offers a comforting return to a beloved series with just enough new elements to keep things interesting.
For Switch owners looking for a charming, accessible RPG experience, Brothership promises to deliver. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer curious about Mario’s RPG adventures, this latest entry looks set to charm its way into players’ hearts when it launches on November 7th.
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