Unveil the Secrets in Paper Mario: T-Y Door!
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a critically acclaimed role-playing game (RPG) developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo for the GameCube in 2004. It is the second installment in the Paper Mario series and is widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs of all time. A remake was released for the Nintendo Switch in 2024.
Story
The game follows Mario as he ventures to the town of Rogueport to help Princess Peach uncover a legendary treasure hidden behind the Thousand-Year Door. However, Peach is kidnapped by the X-Nauts, an alien group seeking to use her as part of their sinister plans. Mario must collect seven Crystal Stars, scattered across unique locations, to open the Thousand-Year Door, save Peach, and stop the resurrection of the Shadow Queen, an ancient demon.
Gameplay
The game combines traditional RPG mechanics with unique paper-themed abilities:
- Exploration: Players navigate 2D paper-like environments, solving puzzles and interacting with NPCs.
- Combat: Battles are turn-based and take place on a stage with an audience that reacts to player performance. Timing button presses enhances attacks and defense.
- Abilities: Mario gains special "paper" powers, such as folding into a plane or tube to access new areas.
- Party Members: Mario is joined by seven companions, each with unique abilities essential for combat and puzzle-solving.
Characters
Key characters include:
- Goombella (a Goomba archaeologist)
- Koops (a timid Koopa)
- Madame Flurrie (a wind spirit)
- Yoshi (a customizable baby Yoshi)
- Vivian (a shadow being)
- Admiral Bobbery (a seasoned Bob-omb)
- Ms. Mowz (an optional Squeek thief).
Reception
Upon release, The Thousand-Year Door received widespread acclaim for its engaging story, humor, innovative gameplay mechanics, and charming art style. It won "Console Role-Playing Game of the Year" at the 8th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards and is considered the best entry in the Paper Mario series.
The 2024 remake brought updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements while retaining the original's charm.