The original Paper Mario for the Nintendo 64 was a highly acclaimed but overlooked RPG that was somewhat buried underneath the PS2 hype. However, the sequel, The Thousand-Year Door is releasing in the GameCube's prime, and everyone should play it, as it is one of the greatest RPGs of the year.

As if she weren't rich enough, Princess Peach has come into possession of a treasure map, and not wanting to do the digging herself, has mailed it to Mario and asked that he perform the duty. It is said that a great fortune lies behind the mysterious Thousand-Year door, and after arriving on Rogueport (a rather seedy town), Mario embarks upon an epic journey to not only solve the mystery of the treasure, but also find Princess Peach, who never met Mario upon his arrival.

Paper Mario 2's story isn't as deep as the more popular RPGs on the market, but it definitely kept my interest. The large cast of characters you meet as well as your party members (who would've thought that Mario would ever partner up with a Koopa Troopa and a Goomba) are reason enough to explore the colorful fantasy lands that await you. However, before I get into all of that stuff, I want to spend some time discussing the battle system, the main reason why playing Paper Mario 2 is so much fun.

If you're like me, I'm often times turned off by the complexities of your average RPG, what with menu screens that are so filled with text and health bars and sub screens that the TV can barely contain it all. Not so with Paper Mario 2. Its battle system and menus were designed so that you can get into the game quickly (though there is the standard Nintendo tutorial whenever you learn something new) and have success. When in battle, you have a choice of several options that appear on top of your attacking character, and all you have to do is cycle through each by pressing left or right on the analog stick, then making your selection(s) with the A button. It's not all that simple because you'll sometimes need to press the button at an exact time to inflict more damage, but that's the gist of what's going on. You attack, then your party members attack, and then you take your lumps and the process restarts. That's the way most if not all turn-based RPGs work, but Paper Mario 2 will never confuse you. It's simplistic, but it also strays outside the norm just enough to make it a unique gameplay experience. For example, during battle, there are audience members, and not only can you appeal to them to attract more, but they'll also toss you goodies to help you fight, though others will try to sabotage you. It's a simple idea, but it goes a long way to adding a level of complexity to the system, and it's greatly appreciated.

Of course, like almost every RPG there's still tons of items to collect, towns to explore, and leveling up to do. Despite the fact that you can do cool things like turn into a paper airplane, turn sideways and slip through prison bars, and strike opponents first before the battle begins (which essentially gives you the first two attacks), the game never strays too far from the standard formula.

The graphics as well as the sound to Paper Mario 2 is stunning. The visuals are among the best seen on a console but not because they push any next-gen boundaries. Rather, for what they are they're flawless; colorful worlds teeming with detailed cartoon characters (both old and new). Speaking of characters, the game can support over a hundred at a time, which literally makes the TV screen explore in color and movement. If I could, I'd decorate my room with 480p screen captures.

The game's sound is equally amazing. The composer(s) captured that magical Nintendo feel, and the music embraces and gently rocks you until you've slipped into an aural euphoria. By all means, if there's ever a Paper Mario 2 soundtrack, buy it immediately.

I have to admit; it's difficult to find fault with Paper Mario 2, and believe me, I've tried. You can fault it for not having a complex story or for not lasting 80 hours like other RPGs, but to do so would be missing the point. Rather, what's sort of wrong with it has nothing to do with its length or glitches (I never noticed any), but rather the gameplay experience as a whole. While I had fun throughout, I was never truly "WOWED." This is because Paper Mario 2's enjoyment neither dips or spikes, but instead hums along at an even pace. You play, and as you play you get comfy, and you have fun, and that's it, but you won't jump from your chair. The entire game is a very soothing experience.

If I had to truly complain about something, it's the game's lack of coins. If you spend your initial allotment early on in the game, it's hard to get a lot in a hurry until later, meaning you may be stuck without items to replenish your HP because you're flat broke!

Paper Mario 2 is a fantastic RPG for all ages. The easy-to-use battle system makes it so anyone can play, and the spectacular visuals are dazzling. Some may be turned off by its simplicity, but those looking for a slick-looking game and also need a Mario fix will find a lot to love about this charming paper-thin adventure.