With its unique blend of classic 2D-style platforming and RPG-style progression, Super Paper Mario becomes the first game for the Wii to feature our favorite Italian plumber. It's a lot of fun, it's fast-paced and relatively easy, and more importantly, it should definitely tide over Nintendo fans until the release of Super Mario Galaxy later this year. One of the game's strongest features is its highly bizarre and amusing story line, with a localization that Nintendo of America can be proud of.

My last preview outlined the details of the plot, but here's a quick recap. An evil overlord known as Count Bleck kidnaps Princess Peach from the Mushroom Kingdom, and whisks her off into another dimension. Mario gets split up from his brother, and must begin the arduous task of tracking down Peach while trying to prevent Bleck and his minions from destroying everything in the multi-dimensional universe. Luckily, Mario gets a little help from friendly folks on his travels and winds up in a 2D/3D action adventure..


Flipping Out

Super Paper Mario spans around 32 different stages split up over eight chapters. The exceptionally cool and creative level design is a major strong suit. Each level has been shaped so that Mario can flip between 2D and 3D versions. This is the biggest gameplay-altering mechanic on offer and also one of the most unique I've seen in a game in some time. By flipping between the two, Mario will be able to unlock secrets, gather hidden coins and items, and progress through the game itself.

It's no secret that you'll eventually add Peach and Bowser to your party, and each character brings their own unique abilities to the team. While Mario's flip skill is the single most important, Peach's ability to jump high and float over large gaps is also invaluable. As for Bowser, his double-damage stomps and fire-breathing attacks make him a great choice for trickier enemy and boss encounters.

Butt Stomp +4

As you quest in search of the eight all-important Light Hearts, you'll encounter all manner of strange folks and critters along the way. The most significant of these are the Pixls. Acting as secondary abilities and guides, these cute little fairy-like creatures give you new methods of solving puzzles and winning combat by bestowing such abilities as butt stomps, throws, bombs and the like on your party members.

The combat in Super Paper Mario is great, too. Being much more in the vein of classic Super Mario Bros. platforming than turn-based RPGs, you'll need to run, jump and stomp on all manner of creatures, including staples like Goombas and Koopas as well as all-new creatures and bosses. Controlling the action with the Wii remote held classic-style feels very natural. The controls feel very responsive and the button mapping isn't awkward in the slightest.