First Paper Mario Game? Start Here!

So, you're looking to dive into the wonderful, wacky world of Paper Mario, but you're scratching your head, wondering, "Which Paper Mario game should I actually play first?" Guys, I get it! This is a super common question, and honestly, there's no single wrong answer, but there are definitely paths that make for a smoother, more enjoyable introduction to this fantastic RPG series. We're going to break down the best starting points, focusing on what makes each game unique and why it might be the perfect launchpad for your Paper Mario adventure. We'll be talking about the classics, the somewhat controversial entries, and why jumping in at a particular spot can really set the tone for your appreciation of the franchise. Think of this as your friendly guide, your compass, your super-detailed walkthrough to picking that very first game. We want you to have the best possible experience, avoiding any potential "analysis paralysis" that can come from too many choices. After all, these games are all about fun, charm, and a unique blend of RPG mechanics and platforming. Let's get this paper party started and figure out where your Mario journey should begin!

The Classic Choice: Paper Mario (N64)

Alright, let's start with the OG, the one that kicked off this whole papercraft revolution: Paper Mario on the Nintendo 64. If you're a purist, or just love experiencing things from the beginning, this is your absolute best bet. Playing the original Paper Mario first gives you the purest understanding of the series' roots. You get to see where all those iconic elements – the turn-based combat with timed button presses, the badge system for customizing your abilities, the charming paper-cutout art style, and the heartwarming stories – all began. It's set in a world that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, with Mario on a quest to rescue Princess Peach (classic!) from Bowser, who has once again kidnapped her and stolen the Star Rod. The story quickly spirals into something much bigger, involving the seven Star Spirits and a host of memorable characters. The gameplay is deceptively simple at first but deepens significantly as you unlock new partners and abilities. The dialogue is witty, the world is packed with secrets, and the feeling of discovery is immense. For many, this game is a nostalgic masterpiece, and playing it first allows you to appreciate how subsequent games built upon its foundation. It's a bit harder to access nowadays unless you have an N64 or are playing through emulation, but its impact on the series is undeniable. You'll find yourself falling in love with the unique battle system, where timing your button presses can grant extra damage or allow you to dodge enemy attacks, and collecting badges to customize Mario's stats and abilities. The partners you recruit are also a huge part of the charm, each with their own personality and battle utility. This game truly set the standard for what a "Paper Mario" game could be, blending RPG elements with Mario's signature platforming flair in a way that felt fresh and exciting. If you have the means to play it, it's an incredibly rewarding experience and an excellent place to start your journey into the Paper Mario universe.

The Beloved Sequel: Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (GameCube)

Next up, we have arguably the most beloved entry in the series, and a fantastic starting point for many: Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the GameCube. Honestly, guys, if you can play this one, do it. Many fans, myself included, consider this the pinnacle of the Paper Mario series. It takes everything that made the original great and dials it up to eleven. The story is incredibly engaging, following Mario as he journeys to the mysterious and ancient town of Rogueport to find the seven Crystal Stars and uncover the secrets of the Thousand-Year Door before the X-Nauts do. The characters you meet are some of the most memorable in any Mario game, from the grumpy Goombella to the flamboyant Sir Grodus. The gameplay refines the original's mechanics, adding more depth to the combat and introducing the concept of "Action Commands" during battles, which are crucial for success and incredibly satisfying when executed perfectly. The world feels more expansive and interconnected than the first game, with distinct chapters, each featuring unique themes, puzzles, and boss battles. The writing is top-notch, filled with humor, heart, and surprisingly poignant moments. It's a game that respects your intelligence and rewards exploration. The art style is even more vibrant and detailed, making the paper world pop on the GameCube. If you're looking for an entry that is polished, story-rich, and brimming with personality, The Thousand-Year Door is an absolute must-play. It's often cited as the definitive Paper Mario experience, and for good reason. The narrative is epic, the characters are unforgettable, and the gameplay loop of exploring, battling, and leveling up is incredibly addictive. The way the story unfolds, with each chapter feeling like a self-contained adventure that contributes to the overarching plot, is masterful. Plus, the sheer creativity on display, from the different locations Mario visits to the quirky enemy designs, is astounding. It's a game that doesn't just tell a story; it immerses you in it. Many players found their first taste of RPGs through this game, and it's easy to see why. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality, and it remains a benchmark for story-driven RPGs in the Mario universe. If you want a game that will captivate you from start to finish, look no further.

The Modern Approach: Paper Mario: The Origami King

Now, let's talk about a more recent addition, one that offers a very different, but still charming, experience: Paper Mario: The Origami King on the Nintendo Switch. This game takes the series in a new direction, and it's a fantastic option if you're looking for something more accessible and lighter on traditional RPG mechanics. The story is classic Paper Mario: Bowser has transformed into an origami king and, along with his minions, has taken over Toad Town and turned its residents into origami figures. Princess Peach has also been transformed and is held captive by Bowser. Mario teams up with Olivia, a cheerful and optimistic origami princess from the Origami Kingdom, to stop Bowser and his followers and undo the damage. What makes Origami King a great starting point is its emphasis on exploration, puzzle-solving, and a more action-oriented combat system. While it still has turn-based battles, the core mechanic revolves around a ring-based puzzle system where you need to strategically position enemies to deal maximum damage. It's unique, engaging, and definitely a departure from the badge and stat-heavy systems of older games. The writing in Origami King is absolutely phenomenal. It's incredibly funny, witty, and often surprisingly heartfelt. The sheer creativity in the dialogue and scenarios is a major draw. The world is vast and filled with secrets to discover, charming characters to meet, and hilarious side quests. If you're new to RPGs or prefer games that are more about the journey, the humor, and the puzzles than deep stat management, this is an excellent choice. It's visually stunning on the Switch, with incredibly detailed environments and expressive characters. The lack of traditional leveling up might be a point of contention for some RPG veterans, but for newcomers, it removes a barrier to entry and keeps the focus squarely on the adventure and the narrative. The battle system, while different, is designed to be engaging and challenging without being overly complex, encouraging creative thinking and quick reflexes. The vibrant world, the memorable soundtrack, and the sheer joy of discovery make The Origami King a delightful experience for players of all levels. It's a game that prioritizes charm and personality, offering a fresh take on the Paper Mario formula that is both accessible and deeply enjoyable.

Other Entries and Considerations

We've covered the most common starting points, but let's briefly touch on the other games in the series and why they might not be the absolute best first choices, though they are still worth playing! Paper Mario: The Sticker Star on the 3DS and Paper Mario: Color Splash on the Wii U are visually impressive and retain the series' charm. However, their combat systems, which heavily rely on collecting and using "stickers" or "paint" respectively, can be divisive. The reliance on consumable items for special attacks can sometimes feel restrictive and lead to frustrating moments if you run out of the right resources. While they offer unique gameplay loops, their departure from the more traditional RPG elements of the earlier games might not be the most welcoming introduction for someone completely new to the series. They are still enjoyable, especially Color Splash for its humor and stunning visuals, but perhaps best experienced after you've gotten a feel for the core Paper Mario experience. Then there's Super Paper Mario on the Wii. This one is a bit of an outlier. It shifts the gameplay significantly from traditional RPG mechanics to a 2D platformer with RPG elements. You can switch between different characters, each with unique abilities, and the focus is more on platforming challenges and story progression. It's a great game with a compelling narrative, but its gameplay is so different from the other Paper Mario titles that playing it first might give you a skewed perception of what the series is generally about. It’s definitely worth playing, but maybe not as your very first step into the Paper Mario universe. Ultimately, the best first game is the one that excites you the most. If you have a GameCube and want the definitive story-driven RPG experience, go for The Thousand-Year Door. If you want to see where it all began and appreciate the foundational elements, the N64 Paper Mario is perfect. And if you're on Switch and want something modern, accessible, and hilarious, The Origami King is a fantastic choice. Don't overthink it; pick the one that calls to you and enjoy the adventure!