Paper Mario 3D Land

The “Action” Paper Mario

Paper Mario 3D Land is a high-quality fan game that answers the question: “What if Super Mario 3D Land had Paper Mario‘s art style?” Unlike the official RPGs, this is a pure platformer. Developed by DJ Coco, it translates the linear, obstacle-course design of the 3DS title into a beautiful paper-crafted world. It is famous for its custom sprites (created by artist Chaoxys) and for proving that GameMaker Studio could handle full 3D platforming long before it was standard.

Key Features

• Linear 3D Levels: Instead of an open world, the game features 16 distinct “Courses” with flagpoles and timers. Players traverse 3D environments using a fixed camera angle similar to Super Mario 3D Land.
• Real-Time Combat: There are no turn-based battles. Mario fights enemies in real-time using jumps, hammers, and power-ups. The game uses a “Heart Point” (HP) system where taking damage reduces your health counter rather than shrinking you.
• Unique Power-Ups: Alongside classics like the Fire Flower and Tanooki Leaf, the game introduces the Dandelion (allows for a double jump and slow fall) and the Mole Suit (allows Mario to burrow underground to avoid attacks).
• Stat Boosters: The game blends RPG elements into platforming via “Upcakes.” Eating a Red Upcake boosts your attack power temporarily, while a Blue Upcake increases your defense.