Release (UK): 07/12/2012
CTR-AG5P-UKV
Release (USA): 11/11/2012
CTR-AG5E-USA
Release (Jap): 06/12/2012
CTR-AG5J-JPN
Genre: Action, Adventure, RPG
Developer: Nintendo Co., Ltd., Intelligent Systems Co., Ltd., Vanpool, Inc.
Publisher: Nintendo Co., Ltd.


A new direction for the series
Paper Mario: Sticker Star took the series in a bold new direction. The traditional RPG mechanics that fans had loved were swapped for a sticker-based combat system. Instead of classic turn-based battles, you collect stickers to attack. It was a big departure, and not everyone was on board, but it certainly added a fresh twist to the game.
Mixed reception but still beloved
Sticker Star might not have won everyone over, but it found its audience, especially in the UK and Japan. Fans who were into its quirky charm, unique puzzles, and vibrant art style appreciated its differences. While it didn’t quite reach the iconic status of the earlier games, it carved out a niche for players who were down for something a little more unconventional.
A must-try for fans of innovation
If you’re open to something new, Sticker Star is a refreshing change from the norm. It might not be for everyone, but its charm is hard to deny. Whether you’re a long-time Paper Mario fan or a newcomer, it’s worth playing to see how the series evolved—even if it didn’t go the direction many were expecting.
See the whole series:
- Paper Mario (2000)
- Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (2004)
- Super Paper Mario (2007)
- Paper Mario: Sticker Star (2012)
- Paper Mario: Color Splash (2016)
- Paper Mario: The Origami King (2020)
- Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Switch) (2024)
(Indicates year of first release. Dates may differ between regions.)