5 Games Similar to Paper Mario

Do you have a favorite game or series but desire something new because you've played it so many times? Perhaps you are scared to try new things because you have too much nostalgia for a series from your youth. With Paper Mario, I fulfill both of these requirements. It was the first non-Pokemon role-playing game that I fell in love with, and I owned it on my N64 when I was younger. Light platforming, easy problem solving, special ability partners, humorous banter, entertaining graphics, and much more.

Similar to another well-liked series, I would want to launch a series called "Games Like." The colorful introduction up there is because I will, of course, start with games like Paper Mario. There isn't a better time to begin with this as the Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door reboot will be out on the Nintendo Switch on May 23rd. Super Mario RPG and Mario and Luigi RPG should go without saying, so I'm going to leave those out.

Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sappling – 2019 (~25 hours)

The Everlasting Sappling in Bug Fables is fantastic. You take on the role of Vi, a brave bee who is adamant about becoming an adventurer. In Bulgaria, a bug kingdom entire of entertaining levels, Vi embarks on an epic quest with a few other bugs who possess unique skills. I like how much Paper Mario is incorporated into the game. Platforming, dialogue, graphics, fighting, and more. This is unique; however, it resembles a Paper Mario clone. Anyone who likes the series should play this game.

Outbound Ghost – 2021 (~15 hours)

I was really excited about this game. With ghosts, it feels like Paper Mario. "Sign me up!" said my confused emo self in high school. This game does, however, have certain drawbacks. You portray a ghost who has amnesia and wakes up. In order to discover how you died and who you are, you need to travel and attempt to regain some of your memories. The game also has a monster-collecting/battle system that is reminiscent of Pokemon.

This stage is unfinished because of a falling out between the game's publisher and developer. Although the game can be finished, several parts do seem hurried. Still, the story held my attention long enough for me to finish it. I recommend trying this one while it's on sale.

Born of Bread – 2023 (~15 hours)

Born of Bread is fantastic. Last year, it was one of my favorite games. The game is really endearing! The conversation is funny and enjoyable, and the graphics are amazing. A baker made you into a kind of flour golem called Loaf. While playing around in some ancient ruins, some local researchers unintentionally brought back some evil. You must put an end to evil since you put yourself in this situation!

In addition to playing as Loaf, you can also play as his special-talented friends. There are a ton of side quests and exploring throughout the game. Anyone searching for a lighthearted game that transports them back to their early years should try this one. It was also a great hit on the Steam Deck!

South Park: The Stick of Truth – 2014 (~12 hours)

Well, listen to me out here. Doesn't South Park's animation resemble Paper Mario in specific ways? There are some similarities between these two, even though the substance is far more obscene. In this game, you take on the role of the newcomer to the community who gets caught up in a massive role-playing game.

Everything is well, but you have to assist in recovering Cartman's Stick of Truth, which has been stolen. You must play this game if you enjoy the show. Similar to Paper Mario, the fight is turn-based and features action suggestions. You have partygoers who are the show characters you have come to adore over the years. It's hugely South Park and doesn't hold back, so it's not for the weak of heart.

Underhero – 2018 (~12 hours)

I don't want to give away too much because I might ruin the game. It begins with a twist that made me chuckle and be astonished. In addition to having fighting reminiscent of Paper Mario, this game places a strong focus on 2D platforming. Imagine Metroidvania meets Paper Mario. The game is quite addictive, and the banter is humorous and enjoyable.

Bonus: Escape from Ever After TBA (TBD)

Since this game hasn't been launched yet, I view it as a bonus. Sleepy Castle Studio first released this game as Flynt Buckler Wakes the Sleepy Castle on Kickstarter. The character you are playing is your standard fairytale hero, Flynt Buckler. He discovers that corporate offices have taken over the castle where he is supposed to go and battle a dragon.

Throughout the game, you are accompanied by different partners as you traverse through several narrative worlds. This game's trailer reminds me a lot of the old-school Paper Mario games I used to enjoy. "Wanting to expand on classic Paper Mario with deeper interactions between enemies and abilities," the studio even says of the game. I can't wait to play this game when it comes out since it looks fantastic.