Paper Mario Color Splash

A colourful journey with Paper Mario

Paper Mario: Color Splash for the Wii U, released in 2016, takes the beloved Paper Mario series in an exciting new direction. Set in the vibrant Prism Island, the game introduces a unique art style where everything is made of paper, but the island’s colours have been drained by the villainous Black Shy Guy. As Mario, players embark on a colourful adventure to restore the island’s hues while solving puzzles and battling enemies. The game’s distinctive visual style, which uses a pop-up book effect, creates a lively world that pops with colour and charm.

Combat and puzzle-solving with a twist

While Color Splash follows the familiar turn-based combat of previous titles in the series, it incorporates a card-based mechanic for attacks. Players use “paint cards,” which can be filled with paint to enhance their effectiveness. This adds a layer of strategy, as players need to decide when and how to best use their cards. Additionally, the game features clever puzzles that rely on both combat and exploration, encouraging players to think creatively about how to progress through the island. The interactions between Mario and his companion, Huey (a paint bucket), bring a fresh sense of humour and lightheartedness to the experience.

Critically overlooked but full of charm

Though Paper Mario: Color Splash received mixed reviews, often compared to the earlier, more RPG-focused titles in the series, it still shines with its engaging visuals, witty dialogue, and inventive gameplay. Its colourful world and the playful tone of the narrative make it a joy to experience, even if it doesn’t completely capture the essence of earlier Paper Mario games. For fans of platformers, puzzle-solving, or just a fun and relaxing adventure, Color Splash is a hidden gem in the Wii U’s library.

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