The Best Paper Mario Games Ranked: A Nostalgic Journey Through the Franchise

The "Paper Mario" franchise has long been a beloved series among fans of role-playing games, thanks to its charming graphics, witty writing, and creative gameplay mechanics. Since its debut on the Nintendo 64 in 2000, the series has seen several iterations, each offering its unique flavor while retaining core elements that fans love. As we embark on a nostalgic journey through this franchise, we will rank the best Paper Mario games, delving into what makes each title special and highlighting some exciting Paper Mario merchandise that fans can collect.

1. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door

Often regarded as the pinnacle of the series, "Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door" for the Nintendo GameCube remains a classic. Its engaging story follows Mario as he embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Peach and uncover the secrets behind the mystical Thousand-Year Door. The game retains the turn-based combat system introduced in its predecessor but enhances it with stylish moves that add layers to battles. Nostalgic fans appreciate the humor, quirky characters, and the memorable locations that blend seamlessly into the paper-thin world of Mario. The game's charm and depth have earned it a revered place in the hearts of gamers, making it a top choice in rankings.

2. Paper Mario

The original "Paper Mario" laid the foundation for the series, impressing players with its innovative aesthetic and engaging gameplay. Released on the Nintendo 64, it introduced the iconic style of paper-thin characters and environments that would become synonymous with the brand. This game features classic roles, where players navigate colorful worlds, solve puzzles, and engage in turn-based battles against familiar foes from the Mario universe. The humorous dialogue and memorable storyline of Mario's quest to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser captured players' hearts, making it a significant part of gaming history.

3. Paper Mario: Color Splash

4. Paper Mario: Sticker Star

Bringing new mechanics to the franchise, "Sticker Star" on the Nintendo 3DS introduced a sticker-based battle system that let players collect and use stickers to perform attacks and actions. While it had its share of criticisms regarding its gameplay and reliance on collecting items, the experience retained the unique charm associated with Paper Mario. The game's art style remains a standout feature, and its refreshing take on the series’ formula won over new fans, even as it polarized others. The creative design and fun environments solidified its place in the franchise's history.

Merchandising Magic

Beyond the games themselves, fans of the Paper Mario franchise can find a plethora of nostalgic merchandise to celebrate their love for the series. From plush toys of fan-favorite characters like Goombella and Vivian to collectible figures and art books that showcase the game's unique artwork, there’s a treasure trove of Paper Mario merchandise available. This memorabilia not only allows fans to relive their favorite moments but also serves as a great way to share their passion for the franchise with others. Whether you’re revisiting classic titles or diving into newer games, these collectibles can add a fun element to your gaming experience.

In conclusion, the Paper Mario franchise has continuously evolved, offering unique and memorable experiences for players across generations. While the rankings may vary from fan to fan, one thing is clear: the charm, creativity, and humor of the games have left an indelible mark on the world of video games. As fans look back on their favorite titles and indulge in Paper Mario merchandise, the journey through this paper-thin universe only continues to grow richer.