We never get tired of a good Super Mario game, which is why almost every Super Mario game is a hit. Everyone wants to be the hero that saves the princess. The love for platforming and adventure keeps us glued to the franchise. Super Mario Odyssey gives one such a feeling that makes you want to keep playing all day. It is a platform game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. The game was released in October 2017 and has received several updates, including additional content and bug fixes. As a lifelong fan of the Mario franchise, I was eager to get my hands on this game and see how it stacked up against its predecessors.

The Game’s Amazing Plot and Story Makes It Stand Out

Super Mario Odyssey’s storyline is mainly about Mario’s quest to rescue Princess Peach from the grips of Bowser, who has once again kidnapped her in an attempt to forcefully marry her. This time, however, Mario has enlisted the help of a new partner, a ghostly hat named Cappy, who has his score to settle with Bowser. 

The villain cat kidnaps his sister Tiara and some other members of his community to use them as wedding accessories. As Mario journeys through various kingdoms to pursue Bowser and Peach, he teams up with Cappy, who becomes an invaluable ally in his quest. Together, they must navigate treacherous terrain, battle fierce enemies, and collect Power Moons to power Mario’s ship and reach Bowser’s airship, where Peach is being held captive.

What sets the story of Super Mario Odyssey apart from previous games in the franchise is the relationship between Mario and Cappy. As Mario possesses various creatures and objects using Cappy’s powers, he gains new abilities and perspectives in the world around him. This mechanic allows for unique and engaging storytelling moments as Mario and Cappy interact with various characters and creatures unexpectedly. Also, the game’s various kingdoms each have their own unique stories and characters, which add depth and variety to the overall narrative.

The Possession Mechanic Makes Odyssey Exceptional 

The possession mechanic is one of the most innovative and exciting features of the Super Mario Odyssey. Using Mario’s new companion, Cappy, players can take control of various creatures and objects throughout the game. This mechanic allows for an unprecedented level of gameplay variety, as each possession has its unique abilities and attributes. 

Possessing a frog, for example, allows Mario to jump higher and swim faster while possessing a bullet bill allows him to fly through the air at breakneck speeds. This mechanic keeps the gameplay feeling fresh and engaging throughout the entire game.

Hidden Secrets and Collectibles Never Get Old

Super Mario Odyssey is packed with hidden secrets and collectibles that add a new level of challenge and depth to the game. Collecting Power Moons is a major part of the game’s core mechanics, with over 800 of them to collect throughout the various kingdoms. 

Finding each Power Moon requires careful exploration and puzzle-solving, and some are hidden in truly creative and unexpected ways. Additionally, several other collectibles are scattered throughout the game, such as coins, costumes, and souvenirs. These secrets give players a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction as they work to uncover each hidden treasure.

The Graphics And Interface Add To The Dynamic Of The Game

The graphics in Super Mario Odyssey are simply breathtaking. Each kingdom is rendered in stunning detail, with vibrant colors and intricate designs that bring the world of Mario to life in a way I’ve never seen before. The attention to detail in the game is truly remarkable, from the way the light reflects off of Mario’s hat to the way the leaves rustle in the wind. Even the smallest details are given the same care and attention as the larger set pieces, making each kingdom feel like a real, living world that is just waiting to be explored.

The interface of the game is equally impressive. The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn since it allows players to jump right in and start playing without having to spend too much time fiddling with the settings. The game also features a good hint system that provides tips and tricks for navigating each kingdom and solving puzzles. The menu system is straightforward to use, with clear icons and labels that make it easy to find what you’re looking for or to navigate. 

Another feature I loved about the interface was the ability to switch between handheld and TV modes seamlessly. Whether I was playing on my Nintendo Switch while on the go or playing on my TV at home, the game looked and played beautifully in both modes. 

It’s all About Exploration and Discovery 

One of my favorite and perhaps the most favorite Super Mario Odyssey is the sense of exploration and discovery that it provides. Each kingdom is filled with hidden secrets and collectibles, and I always feel satisfied and accomplished when I uncover them. 

The game rewards players for taking the time to explore each kingdom fully, and there’s always something new and exciting to discover. But perhaps what I love most about the game is the sense of joy and wonder that it inspires. The game is filled with whimsical characters and fantastical worlds that are impossible not to smile when you see them. 

Each kingdom feels like a new adventure, and I always feel a sense of excitement and anticipation as I explore them. The game’s developers have done an incredible job of capturing the spirit and essence of the Mario franchise, and it shows in every aspect of the game.

Conclusion

Super Mario Odyssey is an excellent addition to the Mario franchise and a must-play for any Nintendo Switch owner. What makes the Mario franchise exceptional is that everyone can enjoy the game, including kids, adults, novices, and professional gamers. With Super Mario Odyssey’s captivating worlds and endless replayability, this game will surely provide hours of entertainment for gamers. If you’re looking for an engaging platformer, it is definitely worth checking out.