In the 90s, Mario Party brought us a rollercoaster of emotions. Friendships were made and broken with themed boards, our favourite Mario characters and nail biting mini-games! Who knew that this would kickstart a series that made its way across decades? Each Mario Party game bringing a unique style/way of playing from its classic formula.
Mario Party 2 – turns 20 years old today! For many, this was the version they played growing up and is still a firm favourite, even today. With the first game being so iconic, there must’ve been a lot of pressure about what the sequel would/could deliver. The second game certainly didn’t disappoint! Here are six reasons why Mario Party 2 was so iconic
The Introduction of Items
As much fun as Mario Party was, there wasn’t much way to influence the chance of winning bar getting the mini game star. The tactics on the board itself were somewhat limited. With the introduction of items, characters could increase their dice blocks, unlock doors and steal items. You could even call on Boo to do your bidding! This literally was a game changer, and very much needed in order to advance the series.
Costumes made Mario Party 2 iconic
Lovers of the game will fondly remember these – the costumes the characters would wear for the variety of themed boards. From space suits to wizard robes, our beloved Mario characters would not hesitate to dress up for the occasion! Even Bowser, when called upon, joins in with the theme!
The Mario Party 2 board themes
From the hootenanny of Western Land to the giant space laser in Space Land, there’s always a memorable moment. Horror Land also has the split between Night and Day, a mechanic that became the main theme of Mario Party 6.
Story time endings made Mario Party 2 iconic
Mario Party 1 and 2 are both remembered for their classic endings; where the winner is privileged to play the hero in the board’s story. While MP1 had a specific problem to be solved on each board, MP2 focused on stopping Bowser in his many guises.
The winner gets to take part in many activities – from a Bowser sword fight in Pirate Land, solving riddles in Mystery Land to even taking part in a Wizard battle in Horror Land.
The mix of classic and new games
Mario Party 2 had a nice selection of both old and new games – becoming classics in their own right for future games. From the iconic Bumper Balls and Face Lift of MP1, the sequel also brought us such classics as Bowser’s Big Blast and Shell shocked.
The mini game coaster
Like the iconic mini game island of Mario Party 1, the mini game coaster is loved and often run by streamers today!
From the above, it’s clear to see how the sequel was so iconic and innovative, allowing the series to continue and flourish through its many iterations to one of the most beloved game series!
Did you play Mario Party 2 growing up, or did you come across the game later on?
