Super Mario Party marks a triumphant return to form for the franchise, debuting as the eleventh main installment in the series and the first to be released for the Nintendo Switch. Launching on October 5, 2018, this entry in the Family and Board Games genres serves as a high-energy showcase for the console's capabilities. It brings the beloved multiplayer chaos to a new generation, acting as a go-anywhere-with-anyone experience that revitalizes the classic party game formula.

Super Mario Party Gameplay and Mechanics

At its core, the game revives the traditional board game mechanics reminiscent of the series' heyday on the Nintendo 64 and GameCube. The primary objective is for players to navigate character models from a third-person perspective across hazardous boards, rolling dice to move independently. The goal is to collect coins, purchase stars, and ultimately become the "Super Star." The game features a variety of modes to keep the experience fresh:
  • Party Mode: The standard experience where up to four players take turns rolling dice and battling it out in mini-games.
  • Partner Party: A team-based mode where players compete in pairs, similar to the style found in Mario Party: Star Rush.
  • Super Dice: A specific variation where players roll a massive die and compete to collect stars based on the results.
The title introduces 80 new mini-games that utilize the Joy-Con controllers in innovative ways. Players must utilize motion controls, holding the controllers horizontally or vertically depending on the challenge. These range from simple button mashing to complex physical movements like steering penguins or playing baseball. The implementation of these controls is described as responsive and fun, avoiding the gimmicky feel of earlier motion-heavy titles.

Story, Setting, and Characters

The narrative premise is straightforward: the iconic characters of the Mario universe decide to start a party with competitive games to determine who among them is going to be the Super Star. The game takes place primarily within the **Party Plaza**, a semi-circular central hub that loops back on itself. While the Plaza serves as the menu navigation tool, the actual action unfolds across diverse boards featuring vibrant colors and expressive environments. The title also features **Toad's Rec Room**, a technical showcase where the screen content is displayed in innovative ways to enhance the visual presentation. The roster includes 20 playable characters, with four requiring unlocking.
  • Main Cast: Mario, Princess Peach, Luigi, and Bowser return as staples.
  • New Faces: Monty Mole, Goomba, and Pom Pom join the party.
  • Returning Favorites: Characters from handheld spin-offs, such as Diddy Kong and Bowser Jr., are reintroduced.
  • Toad: Not playable, Toad serves as the host and judge for the events.

Multiplayer Options and Appeal

**Super Mario Party** is designed to be the ultimate party experience, supporting extensive multiplayer configurations.
  • Local Multiplayer: Up to four players can compete on a single system. Two players can share one Nintendo Switch console, each using a single Joy-Con controller.
  • Local Wireless: The game allows for the synchronization of multiple Switch consoles, enabling larger gatherings.
  • Online Play: The title supports online multiplayer, allowing friends to compete remotely.
The presentation is sleek, vibrant, and timeless, running without framerate hiccups. While the game is a tech showcase, it is important to note that it cannot be played in handheld mode due to the consistent implementation of motion controls, which would be awkward on the smaller screen. This title appeals to:
  • Family Gamers: The lighthearted tone and accessible rules make it perfect for family gatherings.
  • Long-time Fans: The return to the classic formula offers a sense of nostalgia.
  • Party Enthusiasts: The robust multiplayer options and 80 mini-games ensure endless replayability.