Mixing 2D and 3D graphics

Early on, Mario gains the ability to flip from a 2D sidescroller view to a more modern 3D view. This practically breathes new life into the environment, but that is not all. Flipping into 3D also reveals hidden passageways, items and even enemies that were hidden from the player's view in 2D mode. For instance, a passageway leading to what may seem like a dead end is actually a treasure trove in 3D. This ability can also be used to get past large obstacles such as rocks that normally would prevent the player from progressing. Just flip into 3D and walk right past that now insignificant rock. However, this is probably the most simple and easy of puzzles that the game throws at you. In a few parts of the game, you will need to flip into 3D in order to see a hidden NPC who will tell you the way to progress in the game.

For the most part, the 3D flip is innovative and refreshing. It is a blast to be cruising through a modern remake of an old Super Mario Bros level, only to flip into 3D and have an entirely new perspective. However, the mechanic is not without its flaws. On occasion you will be safely perched atop a platform in 2D but falling from mid-air after you flip. This is especially annoying in some areas of the game where a mistake like that will have you plummeting to the very beginning of the level. It happens often enough to get -very- annoying -very- quickly for impatient gamers out there. It is also relatively easy to over or under shoot a jump in 3D due to the 2D nature of your character and the 3D nature of the world around you. This, once again, will send you a ways back in your progress through a level.

Pixls

Another integral part of the game are the Pixls. These Pixls take the place of your party members that followed you on your quest in the previous games. They are beings that appear to be made of neon lights and each has their own distinct look that relates to the ability they grant you. You see, Pixls grant you new abilities much like party members did. These abilities range everywhere from being able to do a Spin Jump to revealing hidden doorways and other such objects. Heck, most of the storyline revolves around one your Pixls! The abilities that the Pixls grant you are very vital to your quest. While three of the Pixls are optional (they are still very useful), the remaining ten are very, very important. They are mainly used for solving puzzles, but a few, such as Cudge who grants you the ability to wield a hammer, give you better fighting prowess.

While Super Paper Mario is largely a platformer/adventure title, it also has a few RPG elements. Points return from their glory days of the NES. Every time you defeat an enemy, you gain points adding to your total score. Another way to earn points is by wiggling the Wii Remote while you are in mid-air after post-stomp to gain extra points. Gained enough points? Level-up and become stronger, alternately adding to you health or attack power.

No cakewalk

You can switch between Mario, Princess Peach and two other characters that I won't spoil. Each character has its own unique abilities. Peach can float across long chasms with her parasol and Mario can utilize the 3D flip. It is a nice refresher to use these other characters and they are needed to progress through the game. Thankfully, the game integrates this quite well. You will want to crush every enemy you see and you will only ever run from a skirmish when you are desperate for a healing item.