Paper Mario: Color Splash

51%
Game Brain Score Based on 105 reviews
  • humor
  • gameplay
  • story
Paper Mario: Color Splash Game Cover
Puzzles aren't exactly inspiring, but good writing and typically first-class presentation amount to a more-than-passable plumb pudding.
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Paper Mario: Color Splash is a single-player Role Playing Game that combines an intriguing story with wonderful gameplay and stunning graphics. As Paper Mario, players must restore Prism Island's vanishing colors using the Paint Hammer and Battle Cards, engaging in hilarious action-adventure gameplay with fresh layers of strategy. Some grinding is required, but the enjoyable music and engaging gameplay make it worthwhile.

  • Wii
  • Wii U
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

51%
Audience ScoreBased on 105 reviews
humor44 positive mentions
grinding7 negative mentions
  • The game features excellent writing and humor, making it one of the funniest entries in the series.
  • The visuals are stunning, with vibrant colors and a charming paper aesthetic that enhances the overall experience.
  • Color Splash improves upon its predecessor, Sticker Star, by offering a more engaging gameplay experience with clever puzzles and exploration.
  • The card-based battle system is cumbersome and tedious, requiring multiple steps to execute attacks, which can detract from the overall enjoyment.
  • The game lacks character diversity, with most NPCs being generic Toads and Shy Guys, leading to a less engaging world.
  • The combat can feel repetitive and lacks the depth of traditional RPG mechanics, making battles less rewarding.
  • humor45 mentions

    The humor in "Paper Mario: Color Splash" is widely praised for its clever, tongue-in-cheek tone, reminiscent of previous titles in the series. Players appreciate the witty dialogue, charming character interactions, and hilarious animations, which often lead to genuine laughter. While some critiques mention issues with combat, the game's humor is consistently highlighted as a standout feature that enhances the overall experience.

    • “The good news is that they focused a lot on humor in the game and their dialogue is so funny most of the time you forget they are just a generic Toad or a generic enemy.”
    • “The dialogue is funny and charming throughout the game.”
    • “The writing is very funny and has the same sense of humor as past Paper Mario titles.”
    • “Gone is the entertaining and clever dialogue, all replaced by cringey, lazy metahumor.”
    • “The jokes fall flat and often feel forced, lacking the charm that made the previous installments enjoyable.”
    • “What was once witty and engaging has turned into a series of tired clichés and unoriginal gags.”
  • gameplay33 mentions

    The gameplay in the latest Paper Mario title is characterized by its unique charm and engaging mechanics, particularly the innovative paint system, which enhances the paper aesthetic. While some players appreciate the focus on exploration and puzzle-solving, many criticize the repetitive battle mechanics and the reliance on card-based systems, longing for a return to traditional RPG elements. Overall, the gameplay is enjoyable but could benefit from improvements in battle dynamics and clearer navigation.

    • “The gameplay in Paper Mario is different from prior titles in the series.”
    • “The fun gameplay in Mario games makes up for a thin story in my book.”
    • “Takes the core ideas presented in Sticker Star - a stronger focus on exploration/puzzle solving, a consumable-based battle system, etc. - and makes them work in a much more cohesive package, marking an interesting step forward towards a new niche for Paper Mario titles, gameplay-wise.”
    • “Most of the RPG mechanics have been stripped out in favor of the same weird 'card battle' system they used in Paper Mario: Sticker Star.”
    • “The battle mechanics could use some work.”
    • “I wish the game would go back to traditional battle mechanics; I'm tired of the sticker and card systems.”
  • story33 mentions

    The story in the game is generally considered basic and somewhat generic, often following familiar Mario tropes like Bowser kidnapping Peach. However, players appreciate the charming dialogue and clever mini-scenarios that add depth to the experience, making the narrative enjoyable despite its simplicity. While some find the overarching plot lacking, the engaging character interactions and playful writing contribute positively to the overall enjoyment of the game.

    • “Everything someone says adds to the story, while making you laugh at the clichés behind some of these characters.”
    • “The story, while very linear, is somewhat interesting and enjoyable.”
    • “The story is pretty basic.”
    • “The plot is very generic, but the dialogue among characters is very fun, natural, and creative.”
    • “The story is the same - Bowser kidnaps Peach, Mario battles minions, Kamek, and Koopalings, Luigi cameos, save Peach.”
  • graphics33 mentions

    The graphics of Paper Mario are widely praised for their vibrant colors, charming paper aesthetic, and impressive visual presentation, making the game visually appealing and engaging. Reviewers highlight the beautiful artwork, character animations, and the nostalgic elements that resonate with long-time fans of the series. Overall, the game's graphics are considered one of its standout features, contributing significantly to its cheerful atmosphere and immersive experience.

    • “The graphics are very bright and colorful, and the game is a very cheerful, pleasant game to behold.”
    • “The visuals and the whole world of pure 'paper' are very impressive and nicely done.”
    • “The graphics are top notch, the music is the best for the Paper Mario series, and the environments really capture the paper feel.”
    • “Or is it just a poor copy of Sticker Star with better visuals?”
    • “The only good thing I have to say about this game is the graphics.”
    • “While I feel the atmosphere and music aren't quite on par, the jump in graphics and humor makes up for it.”
  • music18 mentions

    The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, with many reviewers highlighting its excellent quality and the use of live instrumentation, which enhances the overall experience. The soundtrack features enjoyable original compositions alongside beloved arrangements from classic Mario titles, creating a nostalgic yet fresh atmosphere. Overall, the music is considered a standout element, contributing significantly to the game's charm and appeal.

    • “Like other recent Nintendo first-party games, the soundtrack is also mostly live music, which makes a difference.”
    • “There are the expected arrangements of certain Mario series mainstays, but the original music is also highly enjoyable and always fitting.”
    • “The music is outstanding, jazzy instrumental variations of all the classic Mario tunes.”
    • “While I feel the atmosphere and music aren't quite on par, the jump in graphics and humor makes up for it.”
    • “Just play the music from 'Cherry Lake' and you'll see what I mean.”
    • “If you have issues with the consumable battle system and easy difficulty, those can be roadblocks - but the puzzle solving, colorful world, music, graphical style, writing, and sense of wonder and charm are just as strong as any other entry - and perhaps even stronger.”
  • grinding7 mentions

    Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and repetitive, particularly during turn-based battles that involve card selection and combat mechanics. While some enjoy the levels and narrative, the overall combat experience is often described as frustrating and lacking depth, leading to a sense of monotony early in the game.

    • “The battle system falls flat; it becomes tedious very early on in the game.”
    • “Having to pick the cards, color, and swipe them is tedious.”
    • “My only complaint in this game is the turn-based battles, which are tedious but not terrible.”
  • atmosphere1 mentions

    Reviewers note that while the atmosphere and music may not fully meet expectations, the significant improvements in graphics and humor compensate for this shortcoming, creating an overall enjoyable experience.

    • “While I feel the atmosphere and music aren't quite on par, the jump in graphics and humor makes up for it.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

18% average critic score

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