Super Mario Party Jamboree Review
Super Mario Party Jamboree takes the series to new heights with 22 characters, 7 boards, 110+ mini-games, and more, my full review.
The Mario Party series has always been a staple of my gaming library growing up. From heated dice rolls to mini-game rivalries, I’ve had some fun and memorable moments with the series. The release of Super Mario Party Jamboree marks 25 years of the series in a big way, delivering one of the most feature-packed entries to date. This isn't just a nostalgic throwback, it’s a new and fresh installment in the series offering up Mario Party magic at its best yet.
Jamboree keeps the good times rolling by boasting 22 playable characters, seven distinct boards, and a whopping 110+ mini-games. What sets this installment apart for me is how it balances the chaos and strategy of Mario Party with modern enhancements, all while keeping that signature charm that makes the series unique. After pouring hours into it with my family, I can confidently say that Super Mario Party Jamboree deserves a spot on your shelf. Let’s roll the dice on Mario Party Jamboree with my full review.
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Reviewed on: Nintendo Switch OLED
Developer: Nd Cube
Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Party game
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
All the right moves (and modes) in this Jamboree
The opening moments of the game introduce you to the sheer variety of modes in Super Mario Party Jamboree. At first, I was overwhelmed, but the game does a great job of walking you through everything, thankfully. Whether you're playing solo, local multiplayer, or jumping online to test your skills against up to 19 other players, there’s a ton of content here.
Classic Party Mode is back, delivering those familiar dice rolls and item strategies we all know and love. However, it’s the new “Pro Rules” mode that really stole the show for me. This mode ditches much of the luck-based chaos, pitting players against each other in skill-focused mini-games and structured challenges. It felt fresh and competitive—almost like a party game for veterans of the game. If you are one of the many voices complaining about too much randomness to the Mario Party formula, Nintendo has you covered. Don’t get me wrong, though: classic chaos is still alive and well. Those unpredictable turns of luck, where a single bad dice roll or an overpowered item can flip the game on its head, are both maddening and hilariously fun.
Super Mario Party Jamboree Gameplay
The gameplay in Super Mario Party Jamboree is a blast, packed with hilarious mini-games and a ton of fun. Nintendo and Nd Cube have clearly refined their formula here, with mini-games that feel more creative and engaging than ever. Whether you’re racing against time in Yoshi's Mountain Race, racking up points in Waluigi’s Pinball Arcade or rescuing Luigi from a Haunted Mansion, there is a lot to love here.
The seven boards also deserve a shoutout. Each one feels like its own character, from the tropical chaos of Goomba Lagoon with its tide-shifting pathways to the strategic twists of Mega Wiggler's Tree Party. Every board feels alive, and no two games play out the same way. Sure, some turns of pure luck might make you want to scream into a pillow, but that unpredictability is what makes Mario Party so fun (and at times frustrating).
Mario Party Jamboree Graphics and Performance
If the gameplay is the life of the party, the graphics and art direction are the added decorations that make everything “pop.” I spent all my time with the game using the Switch OLED, and Super Mario Party Jamboree looks stunning. Vibrant colours jump off the screen, and the game boards are brimming with interesting little details. Even the mini-games are very distinct based on their different art styling. Each environment feels lush and animated, whether it’s the sparkling waves of Goomba Lagoon or the fiery pits of Bowser’s Gauntlet.
Performance-wise, the game runs quite well in both docked and undocked modes. In four-player mode in split-screen or large online lobbies, I noticed a few framerate drops and a little lag here and there. Overall, it wasn’t enough to keep me from playing, and Nintendo’s art direction continues to impress with its ability to create fun, whimsical designs and easy-to-navigate menus.
A party playlist that vibes
The audio in Jamboree is classic Mario, and it’s a welcome addition to the party. The upbeat tunes compliment the lively gameplay, while each mini-game features sound effects that add an extra layer of immersion. I found myself humming some of the board themes long after I was done playing.
The characters are as expressive as ever, with their iconic soundbites bringing an extra dose of personality. Whether it’s Mario’s enthusiastic “Woohoo!” after a victory or Bowser’s grumbles of defeat, the audio great. It’s especially hilarious when characters react to mini-game mishaps when things don’t go their way. Overall, the audio work adds an extra layer of fun and iconic Nintendo charm to the game.
Final Thoughts on Super Mario Party Jamboree
Super Mario Party Jamboree is everything you could want from a Mario Party game. It celebrates the series’ 25-year legacy with a treasure trove of content, polished gameplay, and enough variety to keep you coming back for more. While the occasional bout of bad luck might leave you fuming, it’s all part of the chaotic charm that makes the series so enduring. Whether you’re a seasoned Mario Party fan or looking for a fun, family-friendly game, Super Mario Party Jamboree is well worth your time. Just make sure you have snacks ready—this is a party you won’t want to end. Overall, it's a game that I wholeheartedly recommend.
Super Mario Party Jamboree PROS
+Vast variety of mini-games and boards
+Beautiful, vibrant graphics and art direction
+New Pro Rules mode adds a skill-based challenge
Super Mario Party Jamboree CONS
- Luck-based elements can still feel frustrating
-Some boards feel better balanced than others
-Online matchmaking could be smoother
Overall Assessment of Super Mario Party Jamboree
Gameplay: 9/10
Graphics: 8.5/10
Sound: 8/10
Replayability: 8.5/10
Overall Rating: 34/40 (85%)
Nintendo provided a copy of the game to conduct this review.
About the Author - Matthew "Dapper Tux" Rondina
Matthew has been involved in all things gaming since the 8-bit era. He is a video game and tech industry veteran who has been passionate about technology and gaming for over 20 years. In addition to being the Managing Editor of dappertux.com, he has bylines with Best Buy, Cineplex Entertainment, Mobile Syrup and Walmart. Follow Matthew’s gaming + tech adventures on multiple social platforms with the handle @dapper_tux via X, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and join in on the fun!
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