Super Mario Party Jamboree Review: A Familiar Bash with New Twists
The Mario Party series has always been a staple for Nintendo fans, and Super Mario Party Jamboree continues the tradition. Even though I still enjoy the classic Nintendo 64 Mario Party, the mini-games and controllers wear out over time. Thankfully, Nintendo regularly delivers fresh parties. The latest, Super Mario Party Jamboree, brings a surprising amount of new content.
Jamboree Partners Bring New Surprises
Nintendo knew just adding new mini-games and boards wouldn’t be enough to impress party-loving fans. So, the developers introduced Jamboree Partners. These characters randomly appear during rounds and can join your team if you reach them first.
But first, you need to win their favor through mini-games. Each partner presents a unique challenge. For instance, Waluigi has a pinball game, while Yoshi offers a fast-paced race. If you reach them first, you get a head start, with bonuses like turbo boosts or extra points.
Classic Gameplay with Fresh Features
Super Mario Party Jamboree offers seven boards, five new and two fan favorites: Rainbow Castle from Mario Party and Western Land from Mario Party 2. Each board has its own quirks. For example, in Mega-Wiggler’s Forest, a giant caterpillar moves to create new paths when you ring a bell.
New characters like Ninji and Pauline join the mix, making for a total of 21 playable figures. Nintendo strikes a good balance between nostalgia and innovation. The same goes for the 110 mini-games, which blend classic favorites with fresh, creative challenges.
Skill-Based Gameplay with Pro Mode
Nintendo added a new Pro Mode, which removes most of the luck factor. This mode only offers one bonus star after each game, and random events are disabled. It’s a welcome addition for players who prefer skill over chance. However, I wish Nintendo had allowed more customization, like disabling only specific luck-based elements.
A Mixed Bag for Solo Players
Let’s face it, Mario Party is best enjoyed with friends. Still, Super Mario Party Jamboree tries to offer something for solo players. There’s a single-player mode, where you move across regular maps but complete quests instead of playing a traditional party. These quests involve simple tasks like finding items or repairing ziplines.
Although the solo mode won’t hold your attention for long, it provides a good opportunity to practice mini-games. You can also unlock decorative items for your Party Plaza hub and new emotes and music.
Smaller Modes for Quick Fun
In addition to the main modes, Super Mario Party Jamboree offers a few quick-play options. The Toad Factory, for example, features ball puzzles that increase in difficulty. Using Joy-Con motion controls, you guide balls through increasingly tricky courses. It’s perfect for a quick session with friends.
On the other hand, the Paratroopa Flight School mode gets a bit more intense. You flap your arms to make your character fly, racing others for points in the sky. This mode can tire your arms quickly, but it’s a fun, competitive challenge for up to two players.
The Bowser Experience
Of course, Bowser couldn’t be left out. In Bowser’s Bomber Squad, eight characters work together to defeat a massive Bowser rampaging through the city. You destroy crates and use bombs to power up a giant cannon. Success relies on teamwork, and each round offers new items to help you defeat Bowser.
However, the Bowserathlon mode felt more stressful than enjoyable. Twenty players race through mini-games, each moving forward based on coins collected. The pace is frantic, and the lack of clear visibility makes it difficult to stay ahead.
Final Thoughts: A Party Worth Attending
Super Mario Party Jamboree offers a fantastic variety of characters, boards, and modes. Nintendo has clearly learned from past mistakes, balancing familiar features with fresh additions. While solo play still feels a bit flat, the party shines in multiplayer. Plus, with Pro Mode and other engaging mini-games, there’s something for every type of player.
If you’re a fan of Mario Party and enjoy hosting game nights, this is a must-have. However, if you prefer solo gaming or don’t care for the Mario universe, it might not be for you.
Super Mario Party Jamboree
You can buy it here.
