There are a total of seven boards, each with a different play time in regards to their length and difficulty. The variations on the norm can end rather abruptly, allowing for some quick games. Then subsequently whoever is furthest away from the goal at that point wins. ‘Bowser’s Bizarre Volcano’ for example plays in reverse, so whoever gets to the goal first loses. There are some interesting variations too. The simplified objectives allow for a easier digested experience, which is important for a handheld console. Although it’s still lucked based, it definitely makes it feel more balanced and fair. But even then it works because you’re heavily rewarded for winning mini games. The exception is ‘Star -Crossed Skyway’, where you collect mini stars on the way to the goal and whoever has the most wins. Winning mini games is crucial now, it’s not a measly ten coin reward, it can totally change the game. This works way better then any Mario Party Game I’ve played. For example, the first board I played ‘Perilous Palace Path’ coming first in a mini game meant an extra dice block to my next turn. The reward you get from winning mini games is different on each level as part of the theme, but they all help you progress through the board faster. The aim of the game is simply to get to the end of the board first. Island Tour shakes up the formula by having no stars or coins to collect. Sure, there are strategies, but it’s clear that Mario Party was never about skill based gameplay.

One of the biggest complaints regarding older Mario Party games is the tendency to get screwed over by the game in the last few turns, resulting in gameplay that was truly and infuriatingly luck based. Mario decides another round of Mario Party is needed. Mario and his pals are having a party on some floating islands, Bowser has his hand in ruining the fun, there are mini games and a weird bubble motif. Do you base your score on the quality of the games? Do you set your standards lower because it’s a mini game collection? We all know Mario Party has been done to death, so what’s changed in Island Tour for the 3DS? Mini game collections can be difficult to review.

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