Mario & Luigiis finally entering the Nintendo Switch library. It’s been almost a decade since the previous new game in January 2016,Mario & Luigi Paper Jam.There have been remakes ofMario & Luigi SuperstarandBowser’s Inside Storybetween 2017 and 2018, though circumstances forced the developers, Alphadream, into bankruptcy. The series halted until another studio could perfectly take the series’ mantle, which wouldn’t be for some time until now.
Mario & Luigi Brothershipis the firstMario & Luigientry to join a home console rather than a handheld-based system. As its release date grows closer, Nintendo has unveiled more about the gamethrough its overview video.They showcased more about the colorful world of Concordia, the expressive characters, and the gameplay format. Many details were unveiled through the video, including some smaller hints that weren’t fully explained.
7Lushgreen Sea
Setting Sail
The Mario Brothers will sail across the Lushgreen Sea to discover different floating islands. The ship travels on certain routes that loop until the player picks a different route. This gives the brothers timeto search for undiscovered islandswith their telescope. There is an option to travel faster when rushing to another island.
When the brothers discover an island, it’s recorded on the map. The plumbers do need to explore each island on foot, though there’s a warp pipe used to fast-travel to different sections of the island.
6Concordia
Lighting The World
Concordia is a world filled with inhabitants designed as simple plugs and outlets. This world’s source of connection is seen through their huge lightbulbs, which were snapped off by some ominous force. Connie and Snoutlet are the main supporters who will accompany the brothers as they bring light back to their broken unplugged world.
There are two currenciesfor the Mario brothers to collect: coins and light. Coins are much more common than light since they appear in the overworld and battle. Light only appears at more specified moments, making them more premium.
5Characters
Returning Cast
Mario and Luigi’s new journey will introduce some familiar characters. Starlow has returned, becoming more part of the series’ staple cast. She doesn’t seem to be with the Mario brothers, butwith Princess Peach. She may work with the princess to assist the plumbers on their main quest.
Bowser Jr. is also involved, though something seems off with him. One scene showcases his chat with Kamek, mentioning “true allies.” It’s hinting at Jr’s issue with managing true bonds with others. This journey will test his character development as he learns how to make trustful, loyal allies like his father.
4Gameplay
Brotherly Impact
The combat offers animated attacks with impactful strikes for the Mario brothers whenconfronting their foes. Offensively, the two brothers utilize teamwork much more often to deal greater damage, even during normal attacks rather than attack by themselves. Defensively, they utilize their usual jumps and hammers to dodge and counterattack. They can even use emergency guard to reduce incoming damage. When defeating regular enemies, they drop coins and presents for items.
The best convenience is when the brothers do platforming. Luigi halts at the ledge before jumping, easing the controls of the jumping plumbers rather than pressing both buttons in a quick sequence.
3Antagonist
Wired Evil
Whatever is threatening Concordia is beyond Mario and Luigi to handle alone. The rivalry villains call themselves “Extension Corps,” since each villain spells out a part of their team name. They’re designed to be various electronic connectors like HDMI and aux jack connectors rather than simple plugs and outlets. The villainous leader even has a wire cutter in his appearance.
This conundrum forces the brothers to find some quick assistance, whichleads them to Bowser. Despite his grudge against the Mario brothers, the Koopa King isn’t thrilled with sharing world domination with another villain. This motivation will drive him to start a war against the Extension army.
2Battle Plugs
Connecting Abilities
Battle Plugs is the newest option for Mario and Luigi to utilize during battle. They are sorted into three categories: offensive, defensive, and support. Each category can enhance the Mario brothers’ abilities by widening the attack range or strengthening the defense. They can even use auto abilities similar to thegambits in Final Fantasy XII.
It’s shown that Mario and Luigi can equip only a certain number of plugs with their outlet storage. Within the trailer, they can equip at least two different plugs. Later, it’s revealed that the outlet capacity can increase up to four, giving the brothers four different enhancements. They must be cautious in battle as they’re not the only ones to use various abilities.
1Luigi
Helpful Brother
Luigi is getting his chance to shine with his mind and independence through Luigi Logic. When an idea comes to mind, he can handle different actions to assist his brother. This allows him to deviate from his brother’s path when a green aura shines. This occurs when he walks near certain interactions, giving Mario less burden to handle different tasks. This mechanic proves useful for the brothers’ main progression, especially during platforming.
His Logic also brings his strategic cunning into battle. After thinking with a familiar pose, he has an additional option that involves his creative solution. This can greatly sway the plumbers’ advantage during more intense boss battles.
