Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story

A journey through the King’s belly

Released for the Nintendo DS in 2009, Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story took the beloved RPG series to new heights with one of its most creative premises. Developed by AlphaDream, this third entry in the Mario & Luigi series saw Mario and Luigi literally exploring the insides of their longtime rival, Bowser, while he rampaged through the Mushroom Kingdom. Combining humour, inventive gameplay, and a memorable story, it’s often regarded as one of the best games in the series.

A dual-perspective adventure

The game cleverly switched between two perspectives. Players controlled Mario and Luigi inside Bowser’s body, where they helped him gain new abilities by solving puzzles and completing mini-games. Meanwhile, Bowser was fully playable in the overworld, using his brute strength to fight enemies, explore new areas, and even take on giant bosses in towering battles that used the DS’s touchscreen. This unique setup gave the game a fresh, dynamic feel that set it apart from other RPGs.

Fawful steals the show

One of the game’s standout elements was its writing, with the fan-favourite villain Fawful taking centre stage. His bizarre dialogue and over-the-top schemes made him one of the most memorable antagonists in Mario history. The humour extended throughout the game, with witty banter, exaggerated animations, and comedic interactions that kept the adventure engaging from start to finish.

A highlight of the series

With its innovative gameplay, charming story, and polished RPG mechanics, Bowser’s Inside Story became a standout title on the DS. It was later remade for the 3DS in 2019, but the original remains a fan-favourite, offering one of the most unique takes on the Mario universe. Whether you’re revisiting it or playing for the first time, it’s an unforgettable journey inside the King of the Koopas.

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