Super Mario Party Jamboree review

Super Mario Party Jamboree review

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that Super Mario Party Jamboree has taken me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. From soaring high with a comfortable lead to plummeting into despair when fate decides to turn against me, this game has truly captured the essence of both the joy and frustration that comes with playing board games.


During the initial twenty rounds of Super Mario Party Jamboree, I found myself four stars ahead at the midway point. However, long-time series players wouldn’t be shocked to learn that by the end of the game, I had fallen behind and was in last place, feeling frustrated and swearing revenge on the gaming universe that had so publicly humiliated me, showcasing my undeniable talent for all to witness.

Essentially, I’d rephrase it as: “Typically, I’d comment that Super Mario Party Jamboree won’t convert critics of the series. However, Nintendo has put in significant efforts to make it more appealing, addressing concerns about fairness and the random board-game elements that have been a part of the series so far. Although you might still find yourself cheated by an AI-controlled WaLuigi who snatches your stars at crucial moments, this isn’t just another standard Super Mario Party.

Super Mario Party Jamboree review

Worry not, fans! Your favorite modes remain in Super Mario Party Jamboree. You’ll still enjoy boards with random elements and continue to laugh heartily. However, a new feature called “Pro Rules” has been introduced. Unlike the usual board games, Pro Rules is focused on skill in mini-games, with Nintendo eliminating the random aspect.

Regardless of which ruleset you do choose, the boards are all superb. From the green hills of the Wiggler-based location to the Mario-Kart themed “Roll ‘em Raceway”, where you’re in a Kart going round a track, even awarded for completing a lap with coins. The Mall is a massive board, with loads to do, and more befitting of a longer turn counter, whereas Mega Wiggler’s Tree Party (for example) is fine with a 10-turn limit. As usual, every board is littered with secrets and interactivity, and really, nobody has gotten bored in our household of playing them yet. With the online offering multiplayer match-ups as well, the combination of the standard party mode and Pro Rules might feel enough to make it feel like a broader game than ever before.

Super Mario Party Jamboree review

Nintendo is emphasizing that Super Mario Party Jamboree is the largest game in the series to date, packed with a variety of features. It’s truly an “all-inclusive” title, offering numerous modes for players to enjoy. If you prefer to focus on mini-games, that option is available. The game offers a blend of motion-controlled and standard play, and you can opt out of motion-controller mini-games in the main party modes if desired. Alternatively, you can delve into the rhythm-based, motion-only section of Jamboree for a unique experience.

How about considering an online, somewhat compact version of Battle Royale called Koopathon? In this game mode, you compete against 19 other players by controlling your avatar in simplified mini-games while racing around a track. Excel in a mini-game and you’ll surge ahead on the track, making it enjoyable for those seeking a quick, casual gaming experience.

That’s not to say the main mode has been ignored, however. Jamboree Buddies each have their own unique set of mini-games for you to win them within, and can massively alter the flow of play since they can add effects to the board-play like giving you the chance to buy two stars at once, or doubling your coins whenever you land on a space. They last for three turns, but can utterly swing the competition in your favour if you manage to win one. In true Mario Party flavour, however, even if you land on their square you still have to face off against your opponents to actually collect them on your adventure round the board.

Super Mario Party Jamboree review

There’s also a fresh single-player experience titled Party Planner Journey. In this game, you navigate through different boards collecting items to help the residents solve their various issues. For instance, someone might require a fishing rod, so you locate the fishing rod on the board and return it to them. The free-roaming exploration allows for a less pressured approach to playing mini-games and familiarizing yourself with the game’s environment. As a reward for your efforts, you receive decorative items that can be used to customize the main menu or the game’s central hub area. It turns out to be a delightful, easygoing pastime that is more engaging than anticipated.

Essentially, Super Mario Party Jamboree retains its identity as a title within the Super Mario Party series. It offers over a hundred mini-games, numerous boards to navigate, and plenty of amusing moments when playing together. However, if you’re not a fan of the franchise, this might not be the game that converts you. I’m unsure what else Nintendo could have added to attract a wider audience. This edition is like an upgraded version of Mario Kart in terms of variety and playability, with the addition of Pro Rules for a more competitive experience. The mini-games are generally excellent, the boards are fun, and it’s a great time spent with friends and family. In short, Super Mario Party Jamboree is the most expansive and impressive game in the series yet, and I expect to keep it on my Switch for quite some time.

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2024-10-15 16:16