Super Mario Party Jamboree: Here’s a quick overview of the game!

How’s it going, party people? The Super Mario Party™ Jamboree game comes out Oct. 17 and it’s packed with content. Just how much content, you ask? Well, it’s actually too much to cover in just one article!

So, here’s what we’ll do: for a quick peek at a few modes, please check out the video above. You’ll see Mario Party mode, Minigame Bay, Paratroopa Flight School, Toad’s Item Factory, Rhythm Kitchen, Koopathlon, Bowser Kaboom Squad, and more. Phew!

Now, if you’re in a reading mood, we’ve got more info on three modes: Mario Party, Bowser Kaboom Squad, and Koopathlon. But check back soon to catch our coverage of the other modes in future articles. Happy partying, all!

Mario Party

The classic mode returns with some new additions! As each of the four players roll a Dice Block to move on a game board, keep an eye out—there are a variety of obstacles, traps, and helpful items on the board. After each player has moved, the round ends in a quick, competitive, and (oftentimes) crazy minigame. Winners will be awarded in-game coins which can then be used to snag various stuff—like Stars! Get the most Stars to win!

Boards and Minigames

In Super Mario Party Jamboree, you’ll get to play on seven different game boards. Five are brand-new to the series (Mega Wiggler’s Tree Party, Roll ‘em Raceway, Goomba Lagoon, King Bowser’s Keep, and Rainbow Galleria) while two are returning from past games (Western Land and Mario’s Rainbow Castle).

Each board has its own tactics to learn—for example, you can hitch a ride on a train in Western Land (sometimes knocking other players around in the process) or get trapped on islands in Goomba Lagoon when the tide comes in. Mario Party is all about keeping you on your toes.

There are over 110 minigames to enjoy, that vary from being chased by a giant Impostor Bowser to quickly (but gently) hammering nails with motion controls*. The majority of the minigames are brand-new to the series, so you’ll never know what crazy situation you’ll find yourself in! (Also note that you can choose to turn off the motion-controlled minigames if you’re more about buttons.)

Jamboree Buddy

Wait, who’s that on the board? Why, it’s a Jamboree Buddy! Sometimes you’ll meet a CPU-controlled ally that can turn the tide of the game. Once you reach them and win a Showdown Minigame, they will join you and provide special benefits. How does double the coins sound? Or being able to snag two Stars at once? Powerful allies indeed!

Each Jamboree Buddy also lends you added effects, like launching you across the board. Just note that a Jamboree Buddy is only on the board for a limited time and will change their allegiance if another player passes them by. Do you go for a Star or try to get to the Jamboree Buddy? The choice is yours!

Pro Rules

Are you already comfortable with the normal Party Rules and looking to test your skills? Super Mario Party Jamboree also has something called Pro Rules.

This set of rules emphasizes strategy over some of the luck-based surprises that Mario Party games have been known for in the past. For example, the Bonus Star will be announced before you even start, each player will get to choose an item before you begin, and several little rules have been tweaked here and there for a different spin on Mario Party.

Party Rules is what we’d recommend starting with, but Pro Rules might be a fun option for players who want to rely a bit more on their skills and strategy.

Bowser Kaboom Squad

Oh no, Impostor Bowser is running amok! In this action-packed, cooperative mode, eight characters will work together to take him down (you can play this solo with seven other CPU players or play online** with other people).

Basically, you need to avoid Impostor Bowser as he chases you (screaming out loud while he chases you may or may not help***). The goal is to collect bombs to load up a cannon and take down his health a bit at a time. After each round, you’ll play a co-op minigame for a chance at helpful items. Teamwork is key!

Koopathlon

Finally (for this article), we have Koopathlon. Instead of collecting Stars, this mode is all about staying in the lead as your character races laps around the course—your place in the race is determined by how well you do at minigames. Of course, losing minigames is the fastest way to the back of the pack.

This mode can be played offline against 19 CPU opponents, online in random matchmaking with up to 19 other players, or online with up to seven friends**. That’s a lot of competition…

OK, that’s all for now, but be on the lookout for more Super Mario Party Jamboree info!