This seems like the type of thing that will grow on me after awhile, I'm a big fan of the Codec mechanic it adds a lot of flavor. The cutscenes and voice acting still hold up as among the best too. Some bosses I'm mixed on gamewise (sorry Mantis) but others managed to make me feel tense.

Story wise I feel like Kojima is a visual novel writer who just kinda ended up making Triple A video games.

arcueid brunestud hypercharged my autism.

The novelty of Mario as an rpg is neat and cute but doesn't carry itself beyond the opening few hours. Standout monster designs though.