Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

Our analysis

Excellent turn-based tactics with surprising depth, charm, and humor. Crossover works flawlessly.

Our analysis

A surprisingly deep and rewarding turn-based tactics game that exceeded sky-high expectations, even for someone who normally dislikes the genre and isn't a fan of the Rabbids. The combat grows genuinely complex and challenging, with varied characters, skill trees, and enemies that ensure no two battles play the same, backed by strong replayability. The gorgeous Mushroom Kingdom visuals and genuinely funny, well-animated cutscenes seal it as a worthwhile purchase.

Our analysis

A spectacular and wonderful surprise that delivers "Mario XCOM" as one of the best strategy games in years. Its infinitely flexible movement, clever level design, and well-constructed bosses make it mechanically deeper and less RNG-dependent than XCOM, all wrapped in charming, genuinely funny writing and pitch-perfect homage to Mario. It's surprisingly demanding for younger players but a deep, accessible, polished gem and a perfect fit for the Switch.

Our analysis

A contrived but well-executed turn-based tactics game that grafts simplified XCOM-style combat onto Mario art, with warp pipes and jump abilities streamlining positioning and guaranteed hits when targets are in range and out of cover. The Rabbids feel like a forced, character-light contractual gimmick, and the strategy lacks the sense of discovery and stakes that drive XCOM. A subtle pressure to grind for weapon upgrades makes the difficulty grate over time.

Our analysis

A surprisingly lovingly made turn-based strategy game that treats Mario with respect, playing like XCOM for kids with a heavy emphasis on movement, dashes, and jump assists that make positioning the key to combat. The varied enemies and reactive battles deliver a welcome challenge, and the soundtrack is outstanding. The passive exploration between fights grows dry around the halfway mark, and the framerate chugs noticeably in TV mode early on.