Artist Shows What Paper Mario Would Look Like on Game Boy Advance

A pixel artist has created an impressive take on whatPaper Mariowould have looked like on the classic Game Boy Advance console. ThePaper Marioseries has since established itself as a creative RPG take on theSuper Mariofranchise, but sadly it missed the Game Boy Advance era entirely. Now, there’s a reimagining for what could have been a Game Boy Advance hit.

The action-filled RPGPaper Mariowas originally released in 2000 on the Nintendo 64. It was a unique approach to gaming at the time, especially for theSuper Mariofranchise, which first found success in role-playing withSuper Mario RPG. It went on to spawn several subsequent installments and remains a fan-favorite series to this day. Though, criticism of thePaper Mariosequelshas been geared mostly toward Nintendo’s decision to switch up aspects that made the firstPaper Marioso great, such as the battle system and charming storyline. This most recent take on the game shows how theMariofandom still loves to play around with the classic aesthetic of older pixel-styled game graphics from their favorite consoles of the past and further keep classic series alive.

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Pixel artist Ninjamal posted four images of their 32-bit GBA Paper Mario art. The art was created using Asesprite, a pixel-art tool that artists can use to create anything in 2D format. Ninjamal’s creation depicted the classic turn-based combat thePaper Marioseriesis known for along with the title screen and cutscene with Bowser. Ninjamal’s work has been received positively by fans of the franchise, with some wishing an actual “Paper MarioAdvance” existed.

Even though thePaper Marioseries missed the opportunity to have a legitimate GBA installment, there are still other ways to enjoy the original Nintendo 64 game. Switch players who have theSwitch Online + Expansion Pack servicehave access to the title along with other nostalgic games, such asKirby 64,Mario Kart 64,The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and more. It suffices to say thatPaper Mariois a welcome addition to the nostalgic-filled expansion pack.

Nostalgia is a big factor in much of the fan art for Mario and this is no different. Though follow-ups to the game, likePaper Mario: Origami King,Paper Mario: Sticker Star, andSuper Paper Mariohave received more mixed reviews over the years, Ninjamal’s take on the classic game shows that there is still a strong love of the series. Nintendo has proven that it can repeat the success of the original with the release ofPaper Mario: Thousand Year Door, so there’s hope for more goodPaper Mariogames and fan art.