We Deserve a Good Mario Party Game

Let’s face it, this year is overall one of the worst in recent memory. From political turmoil to a global pandemic, we need each other more than ever but need to keep a distance to protect our health. I’ve been playing more games with friends and family online during social distancing, and I can’t help but feel a bit let down. Do you know what would be wonderful right about now? A good Mario Party game that captures the spirit of the old titles and allows us to rage together online.

The most recent release in this acclaimed series, Super Mario Party, is yet another let down for those who miss the good ol’ days. The only online mode available in this new game is “Online Mariothon,” where players can compete in mini-games. The boards are exclusive to offline play with friends on the couch. How is it in 2020 with online gaming at its peak we don’t have a Mario Party title that you can play with friends across the country and world?

The only argument Nintendo continues to make with this series is that it’s always looking to expand the experience. Things like “Partner Party,” which pairs players for 2v2, are good and exciting changes. Why is it then that we still don’t get large boards that invite exploration and creativity? Four boards for offline play is annoying enough, but you can’t even use them online? That’s not innovation; it’s simply doing the bare minimum and hoping players buy the game blindly.

Party games exist today in a lot of different ways that fill the Mario Party gap my heart feels. Ideally, we’d get a better Mario Party sometime in the future. I don’t think it’s going to happen unless enough of a push comes from the fans. There are plenty who are okay to take what they can get from the series, but at a time of distancing and missing family and friends, I’d kill for a good Mario Party game with online play.