The Biggest Changes In Mario & Luigi: Brothership

Key Takeaways

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is the first game without AlphaDream, featuring a return to the original two party members.
The leveling-up mechanics have changed, with a new tier system replacing the traditional stat boosts.
Luigi’s movements are more automatic, with a new feature called Luigi Logic allowing for seamless exploration.

As a longtime fan of the Mario and Luigi series, I must say that with each new iteration, the creators continue to surprise us with fresh ideas and innovative mechanics that keep this franchise at the top of its game. In the latest release, “Mario & Luigi: Brothership Island,” we find ourselves on a nautical adventure like no other, where our favorite plumbers traverse the high seas aboard a ship-shaped island!

The “Mario & Luigi: Brothership” represents the comeback of this series after nearly a decade since its initial launch in 2003 with “Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga,” a role-playing game (RPG) for the Game Boy Advance. It made its way through various handheld devices until concluding on the 3DS in 2015 with “Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam.” In essence, there were subsequent releases for the 3DS, but they were reimaginings rather than new installments to the series.

The game “Mario & Luigi: Brothership” was the first one created without direct involvement from AlphaDream, the original creators, as they ceased operations in 2019. This indicates significant changes since subsequent games were produced, so let’s discuss the major transitions that took place.

6 It’s Back To Two Party Members

There Is More Emphasis On The Brotherly Love Though

The Biggest Changes In Mario & Luigi: Brothership

The majority of games starring Mario and Luigi have typically only allowed you to control these two brothers. However, there are exceptions. In the following game, Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time, they were assisted by their younger versions thanks to time-travel magic. The latest title, Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam, introduced Paper Mario as an additional character you could play during battles – a significant crossover event.

In the game “Mario & Luigi: Brothership”, despite the series having explored multiple playable characters in the past, it’s returning to its roots. Notably, the basic combat in this game has been enhanced. Previously, when either Mario or Luigi attacked, they did so individually. However, now, during regular attacks, both brothers will assist each other, similar to their more complex special moves called “Mario Bros. Attacks”, which have always featured both characters working together.

5 The Leveling Up Mechanics

Reaching Tier Points

In these video games, progressing to higher levels is reminiscent of Super Mario Bros., where completing a stage involved raising a flag on a pole. Similarly, as players accumulate experience points (EXP) in this role-playing game (RPG) series, a flag will ascend; once it reaches the pinnacle, it’s time to level up. Unlike the earlier Mario & Luigi games, where stats increased automatically like traditional RPG leveling systems, here, the process might be more interactive and engaging for players.

In the game Mario & Luigi: Brothership, an earlier feature where players could boost a specific stat by spinning a box has been replaced with a new bonus system. At certain levels, starting from Level 8, players can now select a special feature for each character. For instance, Mario might acquire an additional accessory slot or enhance his Experience Point percentages.

4 Luigi’s Movements Are More Automatic

He Also Has A Lot Of Ideas

One distinctive feature of this popular top-down RPG series is its control system. In combat scenarios, each brother is managed using a separate button. Specifically, Mario is assigned to the ‘A’ button and Luigi to the ‘B’ button, which has remained consistent since the initial game, “Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga”, and also applies to “Mario & Luigi: Brothership”.

In the game “Mario & Luigi: Brothership”, both brothers, Mario and Luigi, are capable of jumping. The player can switch between the two characters, with the one in front leading the way. However, the character following behind will automatically follow, though the player must manually command jumps for the trailing brother. This system works well during exploration. As for Luigi, he can jump on command, but also does so automatically in specific circumstances, making gameplay smoother and more convenient.

3 Luigi Logic

Letting The Luigi AI Run Wild

In Mario & Luigi: Brothership, exploration-linked features have received an update. Now, many of Luigi’s actions within the game world are automated, eliminating the need to switch to him manually. Players can activate a new system called “Luigi Logic” using the L button on their Nintendo Switch controller. This feature will prompt you when Luigi is ready for action. For instance, he may be able to break certain boxes with a hammer or pull up hidden turnips that contain Gold Coins.

As a gamer, if I overlook these prompts, it’s on me – Luigi won’t lend a hand unless I press the L button. Some players might grumble about Luigi feeling more automated in the game, but let me tell you, he’s far from just a showpiece. In fact, he’s got more autonomy in combat than ever, and he’s an essential ally in this journey, playing a significant role throughout our adventure together.

2 Your Traversal Methods

Ahoy Matey!

In all their past adventures, Mario and Luigi didn’t use vehicles for their journeys, except for Warp Pipes that allowed fast travel. They mainly navigated through the worlds on foot. However, in the game Mario & Luigi: Brothership, there’s a unique twist. The central theme revolves around an island shaped like a ship called Shipshape Island. This island can sail, but the players won’t have direct control over this vehicle-island hybrid.

In contrast, they have the freedom to navigate these currents, reminiscent of a familiar theme from another popular Nintendo title, “The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker.” This game also emphasized sailing extensively. Perhaps the upcoming “Mario & Luigi” installment could provide them with more hands-on control of their vehicle, be it a new boat or even an airship like in “Final Fantasy.

1 A New Way To Track Side Quests

Gotta Keep These Plumbers Busy

From the start, side quests have been part of the series, but it was mostly on players to manage them all. However, in Mario & Luigi: Brothership, you’ll encounter a multitude of these tasks. Some will be straightforward, like testing a hammer or chatting with an NPC, while others will require more extensive activities such as embarking on a long-term exploration mission to discover an archipelago of rock formations in the high seas.

Although these games may not scale the heights achieved by larger RPGs such as The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, they are still worth playing. With their user-friendly map tracking system, they can be completed easily and the rewards usually make the effort worthwhile. These games provide an enjoyable way to pass the initial hours of Mario & Luigi: Brothership.

2024-11-08 18:54