Is Super Mario RPG a Remake?
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars, released in 1996 for the Super Famicom (SNES), has been a staple in the Mario franchise for over two decades. However, the question of whether it is a true remake has been a topic of debate among fans and gamers alike. Is Super Mario RPG a remake, or is it something entirely new? Let’s delve into this intriguing question.
Understanding the Original Game
Before we can determine if Super Mario RPG is a remake, it’s crucial to understand the original game. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is a role-playing game (RPG) developed and published by Square (now Square Enix) and Nintendo. It features the iconic Mario character in a new role, as a hero on a quest to save the world from an evil sorcerer named Mallow. The game combines elements of traditional Mario platforming with RPG gameplay, such as turn-based combat and character development.
The Debate Over Remake Status
The debate over whether Super Mario RPG is a remake largely centers on the differences between the original game and any potential remakes. While the game shares the Mario brand and characters, it is fundamentally different from the classic platformers that Mario is known for. Here are some key points to consider in this debate:
1. Developer: The original game was developed by Square, while any potential remakes would likely be developed by a different studio, such as Nintendo or another third-party developer.
2. Graphics and Sound: Remakes often feature updated graphics and sound to reflect current technology. While Super Mario RPG’s original graphics and sound were impressive for its time, a remake would likely offer higher resolutions and better-quality audio.
3. Gameplay: A remake could potentially tweak the gameplay to improve the overall experience, such as adjusting difficulty or introducing new mechanics.
4. Story and Characters: While the core story and characters of Super Mario RPG would remain the same in a remake, there could be changes to dialogue, character designs, and other narrative elements.
Is Super Mario RPG a Remake?
Based on the points mentioned above, it can be argued that Super Mario RPG is not a traditional remake in the sense that it is not a direct port or reimagining of the original game. Instead, it is a unique game that happens to share the Mario brand and characters. However, some fans might consider it a spiritual successor, as it blends the Mario universe with RPG elements in a way that is distinct from the original Mario platformers.
In conclusion, while Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is not a direct remake of the original game, it is a significant contribution to the Mario franchise that has left a lasting impact on both RPG and Mario fans. Whether or not a future remade version would be considered a true remake is up for debate, but one thing is certain: Super Mario RPG has earned its place as a classic in the hearts of many gamers.
