Is Super Mario RPG Remake Worth Buying?
To say that the announcement for the Super Mario RPG Remake was earth-shattering would be an understatement. Fans worldwide gathered and cheered in droves at the return of their beloved SNES classic. That’s all well and good, but before you reach for that wallet and pre-order a copy, you have to ask yourself: "Should I buy the Super Mario RPG Remake?"
A Bunch of New Gameplay Features
Let’s start with the basics: what new gameplay features does the Remake have that aren’t in the original? Since Super Mario RPG Remake seems to be a faithful remake of the original in plot and core gameplay mechanics. It retains the turn-based RPG combat, overworld navigation, JRPG-esque equipment, and action command system from the original game. But it also has a few new features of note.
Triple Moves
Triple Moves are a new addition, usable during encounters. Hitting attacks and action commands accurately will fill up a meter, allowing players to activate a powerful new ability involving all three team members when it’s full. Triple Moves can have differing effects depending on the composition of your party.
Perfect Action Commands
Action Commands make a return in the remake, allowing you to press buttons at a specific time to increase the power of your attacks and specials or decrease the damage dealt to you by enemies. New to the remake, however, are Perfect Action Commands, which, when executed, deal damage to the entire enemy team at once.
Breezy Mode
Newbies rejoice: Super Mario RPG Remake has an alternative difficulty setting called "Breezy Mode," which lowers the HP and damage of enemies to let you enjoy the game at your leisure. Considering the original’s reputation for punishing boss fights (I’m looking at you, Culex), this is a godsend for those just looking for a more casual RPG fix.
Boss Rematch
At the other end of the difficulty spectrum, we have the new Boss Rematch mechanic, which lets you challenge a harder version of previously beaten bosses. If you felt your fight against Exor was just a little too easy, the remake’s got your back. Just make sure you’re actually up to the challenge since these new bosses pack a mean punch.
SNES Music Mode
Feeling nostalgic? Wanna up that nostalgia factor up to 11? The Super Mario RPG Remake has a unique setting that lets you switch between remastered and original versions of the original game’s OST. While this doesn’t really affect gameplay, it’s clear that Nintendo wants you to revel in the memories of your first Super Mario RPG run.
Is Super Mario RPG Remake Worth Its Price?
Apart from the new features, one must also consider the remake’s price. Super Mario RPG Remake will set you back $60 for the base game. This price can vary depending on the region and may come with different perks, with Japan notably receiving unique pre-order bonuses of varying prices. Due to the game’s status as a remake, we have a vague idea of how much content we’re getting on top of the ones mentioned above. The game’s Nintendo eShop page also promises a lot of new cutscenes and post-game content. In my opinion, this remake’s going to be worth every penny.
So What’s the Final Verdict?
You Should Definitely Buy It, Even if You’re Not Nostalgic
As it stands, the Super Mario RPG Remake is likely worth your time and money, even without the nostalgia factor (though that in itself can be an amazing bonus). It offers much in the way of fun gameplay and story and innovates itself already, as a remake of the original. There’s a lot of hype surrounding this game, and for good reason. It would be a real shame to not be a part of gaming history and miss partaking in the return of quite possibly one of the SNES’ most legendary titles.
Related Articles
Super Mario RPG Remake Review | Fan Reactions & Everything We Know So Far
Super Mario RPG Release Date and Time
Where Can You Play Super Mario RPG in 2023?
Super Mario RPG Japan-Exclusive Pre-Order Bonuses and How to Get Them
Super Mario RPG's Top 5 Hardest Bosses
