Mario is technically star of the show for Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope on the Nintendo Switch. Though, for the majority of the game he’s technically optional to play as. And it is debatable if he’s even worse to be in your party depending on your play style.

Usually if there’s a cut scene going on, he’s definitely got the spotlight, obviously.

And he plays exactly like I remember him from the first game with his double blasters. He’s an all-rounded character that I kept in my party almost at all times. Just feels wrong not to have Mario there.

Though he’s far from the most powerful character in the game. But he’s very good if you use cover well and target your enemies wisely. I definitely prefer him over his brother Luigi or Rabbid Mario.

It’s a shame that there will probably not be a third game in the series on the Nintendo Switch 2. I would very much like to see Mario and friends get one another similar adventure.