Tech

Super Mario RPG Review: Small plumber, big quest – Stevivor

Published

10 months ago

November 16, 2023

Originally released as Super Mario RPG Legend of the Seven Stars on the Super Nintendo back in 1996, this game has been a long-standing oddity AND beloved gem in the Mario oeuvre. An unexpected collaboration between Nintendo and Squaresoft, makers of the Final Fantasy series, Super Mario RPG introduced the platforming plumber to a new, turn-based alternative for how to do things.

After 27 long years, Super Mario RPG is getting the remake treatment and transitioning to the Switch, marking the first time the game has been available to players in any form since the shutdown of the Wii U’s Virtual Console. Noted as the inspiration for both the Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi series, this is the game that led to some of the best in the franchise – including Paper Mario The Thousand Year Door, another historic gem receiving a facelift next year.

The game begins with Mario once again on his way to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser, when a giant living sword named Exor smashes through both Bowser’s castle as well as the Star Road, high above it. Taking the castle in the name of the Smithy gang, Exor scatters Mario, Peach and Bowser across the land, along with seven stars from the shattered Star Road.

Setting out to find Peach and return her home, Mario soon finds unlikely allies along the way – the surprisingly fluffy “tadpole”, Mallow, Geno the living puppet, and even a surprising friend in the form of his long-time enemy. United under a common cause, Mario and friends team up to retrieve the seven stars, restore the Star Road and send the Smithy gang packing.

Super Mario RPG takes one of the best paths a remake or remaster can take with its visual upgrades – it upscales the graphics of the original game, but preserves nostalgia by lovingly updating those original models to match the embellishment of your memory. Mario is perpetually in his stubby, mini-Mario form for the whole game, the Toads are chunky and off-model for what we see in modern titles like Super Mario Wonder, and some “unique” characters, like a certain Booster, will haunt me for longer than I’m comfortable with.

It all comes together to form a unique take on the world of Mario, more like the bizarro instruction booklet art of the Gameboy era than the meticulously maintained brand guide of modern Mario. In 2023, it’s exciting to see two Mario games released that take such radically new angles on the Super Mario setting – in Super Mario RPG and Super Mario Wonder respectively – that come from such different times. Whether it’s from 27 years ago or only a few weeks back, the result of Nintendo getting a little loose and wild with their favourite plumber is a memorable game for the ages.

Given that the original Mario RPG comes from an era of much lower resolutions, the game’s maps are a lot smaller in scale than we’ve become accustomed to. As a result, Super Mario RPG is a perfect fit for playing in handheld mode, especially on the OLED’s vivid screen. The isometric look of the game’s world makes everything ‘blocky’ in a way that telegraphs the world around you clearly, without needing to squint at the details on the smaller screen.

This is something that some games on the system have struggled with (hello, Xenoblade Chronicles 3. I still love you). That said, key story moments as well as combos in battle have all been given lovingly-rendered CG cutscenes that dial the cuteness of the character models to 11.

The story-beat cutscenes feel like a treat for advancing through the game’s story, and building up your combat meter for a party combo is as much about the reward of massive damage as it is getting to see the flashy – and fast-paced! – combo animation. It’s a way to reward a player’s diligence while still respecting their time when playing, which I really appreciated.

Speaking of combos, one of the larger changes from the source material is the addition of the Action Gauge to the game’s combat system. The core combat system of the original remains unchanged, with every attack or special move offering some kind of button prompt that can boost its effectiveness if you succeed. On top of increasing the move’s effect, each successful action prompt fills up a portion of the Action Gauge.

Once full, you can use a Triple Move which is specific to the combination of active party members. Some combination might heal the party, others hit all enemies, or perhaps a single target for extra damage.

The accompanying cutscenes are always fun to watch, and I found the only time I ever skipped them was if I used the same move multiple times in a single boss battle. The combat loop itself is tight and fun – challenging yourself to maintain a combo for damage boosts and other buffs is a great incentive to work on nailing the action prompt timing – and made easier by the addition of a visual prompt.

Even so, I found the timing for the various attacks a little hard to absorb; some of the button prompts feel like they are timed to the wrong moment in the animation, compared to what I’d expect from the more recent Mario & Luigi games, for instance.

It’s also a little counterintuitive that the visual clue won’t show at all if you hit the button too early – it feels disruptive to your flow in combat to fail the prompt, break your chain and not have an indicator of how to improve. Especially when upgrading to a new weapon with a new prompt, it can be disheartening to suddenly lose that feeling of “mastery” in combat, even as your odds of winning improve.

All in all, Super Mario RPG feels like a remaster done right. All of the spirit of the original has been maintained, while subtly updating things here and there to make the game more pleasant to play today.

Small improvements make all the difference with Super Mario RPG, like a less impossible minigame post-battle to double your winnings, or even just the addition of an autosave function – which Toad winkingly calls out, even as he goes through the original game’s tutorial on manual saving. It feels like a game made in reverence to the original, bringing it to a new audience while also reminding returning players what was so great about it in the first place.

Super Mario RPG was reviewed using a promotional code on Nintendo Switch, as provided by the publisher. Click here to learn more about Stevivor’s scoring scale.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning we could earn a small commission if you click-through and make a purchase. Stevivor is an independent outlet and our journalism is in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

3 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

3 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.