More RPGs Should Have Mario And Luigi's Turn-Based Combat

screenrant.com:

Alpha Dream's Mario And Luigi series did turn-based combat better than most RPGs before or after. Though this spinoff of their most famous IP has been abandoned by Nintendo and Alpha Dream shut down in 2019, the games remain fondly remembered by fans for their zany humor, lovable aesthetic, and of course, its well-oiled machine of a combat system. The Mario And Luigi games' approach to combat should be implemented to some extent in any turn-based RPG going forward.

The Mario And Luigi games focus on the titular duo as they travel the Mushroom kingdom and beyond, fighting longtime series villain Bowser, as well as other colorful and interesting villains. This includes the insane and devious Fawful, his sinister master Cackletta, and many more. While knowing when to raise the stakes to keep players invested, the Mario And Luigi games are primarily screwball comedies.

Related: Bowser's Koopalings Explained: Who Mario's Recurring Enemies Really Are

Even with their comedic tone, however, the combat system remains the best thing about the games, and the part most fans go back to. Their focus on player agency and engagement made every fight unique and interesting. Because of this, Mario And Luigi should be considered the gold standard for turn-based RPGs.

While more traditional turn-based RPGs such as Final Fantasy 6give the player a menu of options they can take in combat while otherwise separating them from truly controlling their characters, Mario And Luigi went in a very different direction. When an enemy attacks in a Mario And Luigi game, the player is given a button prompt where, if they press at the right time, Mario and/or Luigi will either dodge or counter the attack, taking no damage and sometimes dealing some extra