On May 13, 1996, “Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars” saw release on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. While the game was released near the end of the console’s lifecycle, it has garnered a devoted following. Now, on November 17 of this year; a full remake of the game has come out on Nintendo Switch.
The game introduces a number of updates from the original SNES title while remaining faithful to the established gameplay and story. When the Mushroom Kingdom is invaded by an enemy force known as the Smithy Gang, Mario goes on an adventure with allies both familiar and fresh in order to recover the Seven Stars and restore peace to the land. In addition to Princess Peach, Toad and a reluctant Bowser; fan favorite characters unique to this spinoff join your quest: Mallow, a mage raised by frogs; and Geno, a magic gunman with a powerful finger beam.
Developer ArtePiazza (a subsidiary of the original game’s partner Square before they merged with Enix) have made the ideal remake for fans of the original to re-experience it and for newcomers to try for the first time. While the original was already an ideal entry point for those new to role-playing games; a new setting known as “Breezy Mode” is perfect for younger players and those who want to enjoy the story with a minimum of fuss.
The visual presentation is a smooth and colorful evolution of the pre-rendered graphics from the source material. On top of the soundtrack being rerecorded for modern sound setups, the music from the original Super Nintendo game can be accessed with a simple flip of the switch in the options menu.
Overall, the Switch version of “Super Mario RPG” is a worthy remake of a beloved Super Nintendo classic. It is highly recommended, and will grant fans’ wishes of all ages on the seven stars.
“Super Mario RPG” A Worthy Switch Remake of a Beloved Classic
By Steven Pryor
Publisher: Nintendo/Square-Enix
Developer: ArtePiazza
Platform: Nintendo Switch
ESRB Rating: E
My Rating: ★★★★★
