Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopeis the long-awaited sequel to the original that launched in 2017. It takes place in the same universe but it is not a direct sequel following the first’s events. The same is true for the gameplay as most of it remains the same albeit with an improved set of mechanics.
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InMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, players can move their heroes around freely on their turn and they don’t have to worry about tiles like inother tactical RPGs. Characters can attack enemies, use items, activate specials, and so on. There’s a lot going on with this sequel, so let’s break down some of the most important tips to get through the early hours.
7Keep Up With Saves
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopehas a unique saving system in that there are three profile slots. Once chosen, players are then given four slots to save in that profile. There is an autosave slot as well which is typical of modern games. While it is tempting to rely on the autosave functionality, which does save frequently, this should not be the only solution.
Be sure the save manually and rotate around all four slots. Doing so will help prevent tragedy if one of these files gets corrupted by an impassible glitch. The game isn’t that buggy, but it is always best to be safe than sorry especially in giant RPGs wherein players invest dozens of hours into them.
6Customize Your Challenge
Unlike the first game,Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopeoffers players more flexibility when it comes to difficulty. There are three settings between Relaxing, Average, and Demanding but players can further tweak functions down the line. For example, there is an option to become invincible during combat which is theultimate assist option.
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On Relaxing, the easiest difficulty, things shouldn’t get too hectic but it’s nice to know a godlike mode is around if things are getting too tough. Don’t be afraid to experiment with random battles as these features can be adjusted on the fly.
5Don’t Rush Ahead
Sometimes it looks like a map will be a cinch. However, it is important not to rush ahead as some battles can throw a curveball at players. This is especially true for boss battles which can often crank up the heat metaphorically speaking. Use Beep-0 to analyze the environments fully before starting a match.
Using it won’t allow players to detect hidden traps but gaining knowledge of the terrain is always a good tip fora strategy RPG. It’s also a good idea to spread the party out to maximize combat potential.
4Pay Attention To Goals
Another combat tip players should be aware of are the goals. They go beyond killing every enemy on a map like instandard strategy RPGs. Some maps require players to reach a goal or defeat a certain type of enemy like those eyeball tentacles formed out of Darkmess.
Then there are some survival maps that only require players to eliminate a certain number of enemies. Along with taking note of the environment with Beep-0, knowing the goals can help players determine which party members will be the most effective in battle. To borrow a tired catchphrase from G.I. Joe, knowing is half the battle.
3Jump Combos Are Very Important
One of the best mechanics inMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopeis the assist jumps in battle. For example, Rabbid Mario can run up to a stationary Mario and a jump prompt will appear which will launch Rabbid Mario in the air if selected. Players will gain a free movement option in the air and can move based on Beep-0’s grip strength.
This is a great way to get over obstacles like crates or even mountains that are blocking the path. If Mario somehow reaches where Rabbid Mario lands, he can jump in the air with an assist too which creates a sort of flying piggyback system. The overall tip here is to be aware of positioning during battle which is a helpful note that can apply tomost tactical experiences.
2Maximizing Attacks
Like atypical tactical RPG, players are given a set amount of heroes they can move around the map and take actions withinMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. The first game was a pretty basic clone ofX-COMbut this sequel evolves the combat a bit more.
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Players can now execute free actions such as diving into a Bob-omb and tossing it back at enemies before it explodes. This is covered in the tutorial but one thing that is a bit more obscure is that any enemy can be approached and hit with a melee strike as a free action. Doing this against an enemy about to die would be a good strategy to follow as it will save ranged attacks for someone new.
1Take Notes
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopeconsists of multiple planets with small open-world environments sort of likethe world systemsin theKingdom Heartsseries. As the game progresses, new abilities can be added to Beep-0’s memory which will allow players to solve puzzles such as being able to blast through cracked walls. It’s a mechanical loop that is reminiscent of Metroidvanias.
If a weird formation or object is found while exploring, take note either with a physical note or a snap of the Switch’s camera. Compiling notes like this should help players remember places they need to go back to after a new ability for Beep-0 is unlocked. It will help lessen the burden of backtracking as time, for gamers, is precious, especially with a big RPG like this.
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopewas released on July 07, 2025 and is available Switch.
