Summary
- Release Year: 2007
- Genres: Card & Board Game, Puzzle
- Platforms: Wii
- Developers: Hudson Soft
- Publishers: Nintendo
Mario Party 8: A Motion-Controlled Party Extravaganza
Released in 2007 for the Wii, Mario Party 8 is the eighth installment in the beloved Mario Party series. It was the first Mario Party game to utilize the Wii Remote’s motion controls, which added a new level of fun and interactivity to the classic Mario Party formula.
Gameplay
Mario Party 8 follows the same basic gameplay as previous Mario Party games. Players take turns moving around a game board, collecting coins, and competing in minigames. The goal of the game is to have the most stars at the end of the game.
However, Mario Party 8 introduces several new twists to the gameplay. For one, the game features a new motion control system that is used in both the board game and the minigames. Players can use the Wii Remote to point, shoot, shake, wave, turn, and twist their way to victory.
Another new addition to Mario Party 8 is the Star Battle Arena mode. In this mode, players compete in a series of minigames to earn stars. The player with the most stars at the end of the mode wins.
Characters
Mario Party 8 features a roster of 14 playable characters, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Wario, Waluigi, Yoshi, Toad, Toadette, Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Bowser, Dry Bones, and Boo. Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyles.
Boards
Mario Party 8 features six different game boards, each with its own unique theme and challenges. The boards are:
- Koopa’s Tycoon Town
- Goomba’s Booty Boardwalk
- Shy Guy’s Jungle Swing
- DK’s Stone Statue Stampede
- Bowser’s Warped Orbit
- King Boo’s Haunted Hideaway
Minigames
Mario Party 8 features over 80 minigames, each of which utilizes the Wii Remote’s motion controls in some way. The minigames are divided into several different categories, including:
- 4-Player Minigames: These minigames can be played by up to four players.
- 1-vs.-3 Minigames: These minigames pit one player against three others.
- 2-vs.-2 Minigames: These minigames are played by two teams of two players each.
- Battle Minigames: These minigames are played by all four players at the same time.
Graphics and Sound
Mario Party 8 features colorful and vibrant graphics that take full advantage of the Wii’s capabilities. The game’s sound is also top-notch, with catchy music and sound effects that bring the game to life.
Reception
Mario Party 8 was a critical and commercial success. The game received positive reviews from critics, who praised its innovative use of motion controls, its fun and varied minigames, and its charming presentation. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 10 million copies worldwide.
Conclusion
Mario Party 8 is a fantastic party game that is sure to provide hours of fun for players of all ages. The game’s innovative use of motion controls, its fun and varied minigames, and its charming presentation make it a must-have for Wii owners.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
