2024, Platform, Role-playing (RPG)
WISE Score
IGDB
Mario and Luigi prove sibling rivalry is dead—mostly by turning themselves into a human tandem bike to save a floating world.
Mario & Luigi: Brothership is a vibrant, high-seas adventure that actually rewards you for thinking and working together. It’s the cleanest, most imaginative fun you’ll find on the Switch in this genre.
While the game can occasionally overstay its welcome with some repetitive padding in the middle—classic Nintendo 'long-game' syndrome—it’s a safe, smart, and genuinely funny RPG. If you want a game that builds strategy skills without the toxicity of online play, this is a top-tier choice.
Best for ages 7 and up. While the 'E' rating is technically for everyone, the amount of reading and the precision required for combat timing makes it a better fit for elementary schoolers than toddlers.
The entire game is built on the 'Brothership' bond. It moves past generic heroics to focus on Mario and Luigi actually supporting one another through 'Bros. Moves' and shared attacks. It's a rare example of sibling cooperation being the primary mechanic rather than a side plot.
Shipshape Island is a clever concept—part boat, part hub world—and the islands of Concordia offer a variety of distinct themes. The turn-based combat isn't just 'pick a menu option'; it requires creative timing and coordination that keeps the brain engaged.
This is as safe as it gets. No online chat, no microtransactions, and no predatory 'gacha' mechanics. The violence is strictly 'cartoon bonking' with hammers and boots. It’s a walled garden experience that respects the player's time and the parent's wallet.
Excellent for developing strategic thinking and pattern recognition. The turn-based combat acts like a gateway to more complex RPGs, teaching kids to manage resources and plan several moves ahead. The heavy focus on connection and 'reconnecting' a broken world is a solid, albeit simple, ethical takeaway.
Get a personalized guide on any topic
