10 Greatest Super Mario Spin-Offs Of All Time

Super Mario RPG might’ve laid out the formula but Paper Mario took things one step further. Developed by Intelligent Systems, it began life as Super Mario RPG 2 before changing course, becoming one of the N64’s last major releases in 2001.

Utilising a drawing-based visual style, Paper Mario blended RPG and platforming elements to criticial success, later receiving four sequels but it’s best entry lied within GameCube entry, The Thousand-Year Door.

Released in 2004, TTYD was mostly a self-contained story from the N64 game, showing Mario travelling to Rogueport after Princess Peach advises him of a treasure map. Finding out she’s gone missing, he discovers this map can lead him to the seven Crystal Stars, unlocking the mysterious Thousand-Year Door.

Featuring brand new locations, TTYD saw Mario team up with several new allies, turning traditional Mario enemies into companions. From Koops The Koopa, Goombella the Goomba to distinguished Bob-Omb Admiral Bobbery, it wasn’t afraid to upend series conventions and brought a fine humour with it.

RPG fan or otherwise, TTYD remains one of Mario’s greatest titles yet. It’s a highly rewarding adventure that comes recommend to every Mario fan.