It has already been over 20 years since the Nintendo 64 was the latest offering from the company. In 2001, the N64 was on its way out while its successor, theGameCube, prepped for launch. Just before hanging its hat, the N64 got out one final swan song in the form ofPaper Mario. Originally created as a follow-up to the Super Nintendo’sSuper Mario RPG, it morphed into its own thing and launched an entirely new sub-franchise.
The game is often applauded for its charming story and enjoyable gameplay, but what is arguably the true star of the show is the art design in the originalPaper Mario. While other games from the era have shown their age visually,Paper Mariohas aged gracefully thanks to its commitment to a specific aesthetic. For a game that is over 20 years old to still look good, even in the wake of new systems, proves why it’s as important to have strong art direction as it is to push the amount of polygons on screen.
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Paper Mario’s Timeless Appearance
While the Nintendo 64 may have been cutting edge at the time, games that were once graphical stunners likePerfect Darkhave been overshadowed by those that followed over the years. Naturally, with eachnew console generationthe power inside each machine makes way for more impressive technical capabilities. However, as beautiful as these games can be when they first hit shelves, it’s a superficial strength that will likely become a victim to the passage of time.
While something likeUncharted: Drake’s Fortunein 2007has since been overshadowed in terms of pushing realistic graphics,Paper Mariomaintains an authentic style all its own. The choice to commit to a storybook appearance with all its characters and locations having a paper or cardboard look has helped the game stand on its own.
It’s a simple design choice, but one that has paid off in a big way. While even the mostcritically acclaimed N64 gameslikeSuper Mario 64andOcarina of Timeare often poked fun at for their now-blocky 3D graphics,Paper Mariois spared from these same comparisons thanks to its timeless art direction.
The Importance of Strong Art Direction in Gaming
Paper Mario(as well as its sequels) are not the only games to exemplify the importance of strong art direction in gaming. This is not to say that pushing boundaries and breaking new ground in graphical prowess isn’t important; making new discoveries for what can be achieved with the latest gaming tech is important and can yield some truly magnificent results, as evident in titles likeAssassin’s Creed: Valhalla.
But there is a balance that must be found in order for a game to not be disregarded in just a few years. In 2002, the year afterPaper Mario, Nintendo released another standout title inThe Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. Despite receiving an initial backlash for its more cartoonish visuals,Wind Wakerhas been remembered as one of the most stunning entries in the franchise. This is especially evident in the 2014Wii Uremaster, which used some slight enhancements and made a 12-year-old game look as timeless as ever.
This can be seen outside of Nintendo titles as well, with some Capcom releases likeViewtiful JoeandOkamiboasting particularly gorgeous visual designs. The latter game has been ported numerous times over the generations and continues to be praised for its painted aesthetic. The leaps and bounds made with graphics as seen inUnreal Engine 5projects are certainly important, but the value of strong art direction is worth taking note of as well.
Paper Mariois available on N64, and is also playable via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack.
