Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: A Double-Edged Upgrade
Last year, Super Mario Party Jamboree entered the gaming scene with moderate fanfare, offering a decent, though not revolutionary, experience within the beloved franchise. Therefore, the news that Jamboree would be among the first titles to receive a major paid upgrade for the Nintendo Switch 2 was unexpected for some. The extended title, Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, serves primarily as a platform to showcase the new features and peripherals of the Switch 2, including Joy-Con 2’s innovative mouse controls and the newly integrated camera.
A New Level of Festivity or a Relic of the Past?
The question on everyone’s mind: Does the Switch 2 version elevate the festivities, or is it time to bid farewell to this particular party? Let’s dive into the details.
Disclaimer: This is an opinion-based piece and lacks the depth of a full-fledged, scored review.
Exploring Jamboree TV: New Modes and Minigames
Upon launching the game, players are greeted by the Jamboree TV option, which hosts several new modes that provide swift access to approximately 20 fresh minigames. One notable addition is the “Bowser Live” mode, where two teams compete through a series of minigames that utilize the Switch 2 Camera and its built-in microphone. Teams participate in various challenges, and the ultimate victor escapes the wrath of Bowser, who amusingly roasts the losing side.
Mixed Results with Bowser Live
The functionality of the Switch 2 camera, while interesting, falls short of delivering an exhilarating gaming experience. Some straightforward games, like punching blocks or Simon-Says-style poses, perform adequately, albeit without any real excitement. Unfortunately, my personal experience revealed that the camera quality was subpar; player images were grainy or awkwardly cropped. Furthermore, the game struggles with capturing players of varying sizes, as my family, spanning heights from 4 to 6 feet, often had to awkwardly adjust their distance from the camera for optimal coverage.
Minigames reliant on the microphone function similarly—competently if not compellingly. Background noises easily muddle responses, making it less engaging. While Bowser Live provided light-hearted moments, particularly when my young child found goofy ways to invade others’ screens, nostalgic players familiar with 2010s motion games will likely find it lacking novelty.
Carnival Coaster: A Highlight of the Experience
Conversely, the “Carnival Coaster” mode shines with its incorporation of Joy-Con 2 mouse functionalities. Players collaborate on five unique rail rides, aiming to conquer challenges within a time limit. Successful completion of tasks grants additional time—an incentive to improve performance. The minigames, varied in gameplay, often delight with satisfying mechanics that require a mix of mouse and motion controls, such as sorting mail or creatively stacking blocks to reach new heights.
Enhanced Features and Potential
The Switch 2 introduces additional features to the classic Mario Party experience. Players can capture live images for a personalized touch, while GameChat potentially enhances the online gameplay atmosphere. Moreover, thanks to GameShare, both Nintendo Switch 2 and original Switch users can participate even without owning the game. While the resolution has been improved—although the original Switch version already ran at 60fps—graphic fidelity may not be a primary consideration for most Mario Party fans.
Conclusion: Worth the Ticket Price?
With an array of new content and features, Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV stands as the most robust entry in the series to date. However, this upgrade comes at a premium, priced at $80—making it the most expensive title yet in the franchise. For those who already own the original version, there’s a $20 upgrade option available, but the decision to invest in this festive upgrade ultimately rests with the player.
A Mixed Review of a Unique Showcase
The Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV serves as a compelling yet flawed showcase of Nintendo’s newest hardware capabilities. While the Switch 2 Camera feels reminiscent of past gaming trends, modes leveraging the Joy-Con 2 mouse are refreshingly engaging. Nintendo’s pricing may dissuade some, but this endeavor does present a comprehensive demonstration of what the Switch 2 can offer, potentially making it a valuable addition for fans eager to experience all that is new.
Release Date
Mark your calendars: Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV is set to launch on July 24.
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