Nintendo fans were met with a surprise today as the gaming giant officially announced the upcoming release for Paper Mario: The Origami King, with a release date of July 17. The announcement trailer reveals a new direction for the series, which plays an origami-themed spin on the unique paper-style art direction that’s made previous entries so memorable. Players might also note the somewhat dark tone portrayed within the first few seconds of the trailer, which may very well be teasing a shifted direction in the game’s overall atmosphere.
The Paper Mario series arrives on #NintendoSwitch with an origami twist! What evil paper shenanigans does the Origami King have planned? Find out when #PaperMario: The Origami King releases on 7/17!https://t.co/Zw9epBSIZp pic.twitter.com/4fUGYDcGjG
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) May 14, 2020
Paper Mario: The Origami King comes nearly four years after the latest entry, Paper Mario: Color Splash, and eight years since Paper Mario: Sticker Star. The reception of both titles remains divided amongst most fans, with many questioning the fate of the series’ future. Whether The Origami King is enough to revive interest remains yet to be seen, but it’s clear that a majority of players are still excited for the upcoming title.
With the instant success of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and with the Switch itself selling out worldwide, Nintendo may very well have another mega-hit on their hands if The Origami King lives up to the hype. With new skills, a mysterious storyline and a nefarious new villain, players will undoubtedly have more than enough content to keep them busy throughout the remainder of quarantine.
