Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story + Bowser Jr's Journey stands as a definitive entry in the beloved role-playing genre, bringing a polished remake experience to the Nintendo 3DS. Released on December 27, 2018, this title not only revitalises the classic tale but introduces a substantial new campaign that shifts the spotlight to the Koopa Kingdom's heir apparent. With a Metacritic score of 84.00, the game has earned recognition for its engaging mechanics and expanded content, offering fans a fresh perspective on the Mushroom Kingdom's ongoing conflicts.

Genre and Gameplay Mechanics

At its core, this title remains a turn-based RPG that retains the charm of its predecessor while introducing significant mechanical upgrades. The experience is divided into two distinct parts: the remastered original story and the exclusive Bowser Jr's Journey. The new mode introduces a unique combat system focused on army management. Players command a squad of troops that fall into three distinct types, utilising a power triangle mechanic where specific minion types hold superiority over others to inflict critical hits.

Strategic depth is paramount in the new campaign. Before every engagement, players must inspect the enemy formation to deploy units effectively. Positioning matters, as arranging units in specific spots can yield formation bonuses. Battles are won by defeating the enemy commander, though clearing all units grants an EXP bonus for a perfect round. The system also features a First Officer slot, allowing players to assign Kamek or a Koopling to provide extra bonuses and activate support skills during combat.

Story and Setting Overview

The game encompasses the classic adventure where Bowser enters the body of Mario while the Bros explore the inside of the Koopa King, revitalised with updated visuals and mechanics. Expanding on this foundation, the Bowser Jr's Journey mode offers a completely new narrative entity. In this all-new chapter, Bowser Jr. takes matters into his own hands, setting out to prove himself and determine if he is destined for greatness like his papa.

As the leader of the Koopa Troop army, players guide Bowser Jr. through a campaign of conquest. The story emphasizes leadership and strategy as you build your reputation and command your forces across various battles. This new mode allows fans to explore the Koopa Kingdom from a different perspective, focusing on Bowser Jr.'s rise to power and his interactions with his loyal minions.

Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story + Bowser Jr's Journey: Notable Features

  • New Campaign: Includes the exclusive Bowser Jr's Journey mode, providing a fresh story and gameplay loop distinct from the original release.
  • Strategic Combat: Introduces a troop-based battle system where players manage squad formations, utilise type advantages, and deploy units for maximum effectiveness.
  • First Officer System: Allows the assignment of Kamek or Koopalings to the First Officer slot, granting access to unique support skills and battle bonuses.
  • Formation Bonuses: Strategic placement of troops can trigger formation bonuses, rewarding players for mastering the tactical layout of their army.
  • Character Progression: As the game progresses, Bowser Jr. can change into any of the three minion types, adding versatility to the combat strategy.

Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story + Bowser Jr's Journey: Platform and Availability

This title is exclusively available on the Nintendo 3DS. Released on December 27, 2018, this game serves as a comprehensive package for 3DS owners, combining the beloved classic with the substantial expansion. The game stands as a testament to the capabilities of the handheld system, delivering a rich RPG experience that leverages the platform's hardware for a seamless adventure.

Who It Appeals To

This title is an essential play for fans of the Mario & Luigi series and anyone who enjoys tactical role-playing games. The inclusion of Bowser Jr's Journey appeals to players who crave strategic depth beyond standard action, offering a unique army-commanding mechanic within the Mario universe. It is also ideal for newcomers looking to experience a polished, modernised version of a classic RPG, as well as long-time fans eager to see Bowser Jr. take centre stage in his own epic tale of proving himself to greatness.