Switch Adventures #3: Super Mario Odyssey

This was...definitely a game. I know that when I say things like this, that means I'm about to go negative, and in this case, that's not really true. I do have complicated feelings on this game, but at the same time, it was an enjoyable experience, so hopefully you get something out of this review.

The story isn't anything to write home about. I mean, it's a Mario game. Mario has to save Peach from Bowser's newest scheme, which in this case is marrying her, which I think many Mario fans were wondering why he didn't think of this as a plan earlier. I mean, even The Super Mario Bros Movie had it as a plot point so it was kind of obvious motivation for him.

Regardless of my random rambling there, the gameplay is where this game really shines, as can be expected from a Mario game. It plays like a modernized version of Super Mario 64 and Sunshine (more on those in later reviews), where your goal is to traverse a world and collect plot coupons, in this case, Power Moons, to help power up your airship, the Odyssey, and give chase to Bowser. It certainly is rewarding to find a moon in the game, but at the same time, this also ends up being the game's biggest weakness.

I think my biggest issue with the game comes from the fact that it just isn't challenging, which is an issue plaguing many of the modern Mario games. I don't mind a simple experience, but I still expect to have at least some challenge. Now, I know going for 100% is probably more difficult because of the vast amount of moons to collect, but for a casual playthrough, this game is very easy. Finding the moons can be really easy, too, since every step you take, you'll find one. In fact, it's so easy that it can get boring.

Despite these flaws, I do still have more to say on the positive side of things. The graphics are some of the best in the Super Mario series up to this point, and some of the kingdoms you explore are really creative. Some of the highlights I would like to point out in terms of pure anesthetics are the Metro Kingdom, the Luncheon Kingdom, and the boss fight of the Ruined Kingdom. All of these feel very unique and fun to experience, even if the game that they are part of is a cakewalk.

I also have to say that the new ability, Capturing, which allows Mario to throw his hat onto enemies, basically possessing them, adds a lot of fun and unique abilities, basically acting as the powerups of this game. I liked how each enemy had a specific strength that would benefit you in the areas, like Goombas allow you to walk on ice without slipping or you can possess an Easter Island head-looking creature to see invisible paths. These are just a couple examples, but they all were fun.

Overall, I feel Super Mario Odyssey is a fine game. Not brilliant or amazing, just fine. It's not very hard, the collectibles are a little too easy to find, the bosses run on the rule of three a bit too often, but on the upshot, we get a lot of creative gameplay opportunities with the capture mechanic, and the worlds are some of the most visually stunning in a 3D Mario game to date. If you're looking for a fun adventure where you don't have to think too much and can just kind of relax, I'd say pick this one up. Just don't expect much of a challenge.

Next time, Dr. Eggman succeeds in ruling the world with the help of a villain who is so much of an edgelord, he would make Shadow blush. The only ones who can stop him? Sonic and friends, of course! Keep an eye out for Sonic Forces.

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