While the surprise of the announcement may have been spoiled, Ubisoft debuted its newMario + Rabbidsstrategy game as part of its E3 2021 presentation.Mario + Rabbids Spark of Hopeis a Nintendo Switch-exclusive sequel to the popularMario + Rabbids Kingdom Battlefrom 2017. The new game will build on the old one with new characters like Rabbid Rosalina, a frightening boss named Cursa, and some larger changes.
To start,Mario + Rabbids Spark of Hopeis expanding beyond the Mushroom Kingdom, which means a much bigger opportunity for creativity. The game will still deliver plenty ofMario-related references, like the aforementionedRabbid Rosalina, but also some new ideas. For example,Mariofans are familiar with Lumas, butMario + Rabbids Spark of Hopewill introduce Sparks: Lumas fused with Rabbids.
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Mario + Rabbids Spark of Hopewill also be making major gameplay changes. InMario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, all attacks were based on a grid structure. InMario + Rabbids Spark of Hopethe grid is gone, with free movement and attack ranges determined by range and radius. As in, on each character’s turn they’ll have a circle around them that denotes their movement range, as well as attacks with their own respective ranges. It’s an excitingnew strategy game combat systemforMario + Rabbidsthat has the potential to increase challenge and fun.
While the combat system may no longer be grid-based, much ofMario + Rabbids' style and personality has been retained. Mario can still slide through enemies, or pair up with an ally to launch them into the air to avoid obstacles. Rabbid Peach is shown picking up a glowing Bob-omb and throwing it at an enemy’s feed to explode, then using a special rocket-firing attack to launch several missiles into the air. Rabbid Peach does this while cackling madly, naturally.
The gameplay trailer also introduces players to a unique new setting to explore. The area focused on for most of the trailer is a Rabbid island town with ancient ruins and a lighthouse. Something corrupts the island and its inhabitants, however. The Rabbids starting wearing blue hoods and their eyes start glowing, plus black goo spreads everywhere. Other units includegoombasand large corrupted, bipedal tiger enemies.
There’s plenty left for Ubisoft to share aboutMario + Rabbids Spark of Hope,and Ubisoft is giving itself plenty of time to do it.Mario + Rabbids Spark of Hopereleases in 2022, so expect more information in the months to come.
Mario + Rabbids Spark of Hopereleases on Switch in 2022.
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