Welcome to our Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story Walkthrough, your ultimate guide to mastering this classic Nintendo RPG adventure! Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the series, our walkthrough offers valuable insights that will enhance your journey through the whimsical Mushroom Kingdom and beyond. Dive into the essentials with our guide on Understanding Basic Controls and seamlessly explore every corner by Navigating the Game World. Uncover the secrets of Key Locations and Their Challenges, learn to maximize your potential by Using Abilities and Powers Effectively, and conquer formidable foes with our expert Strategies for Boss Battles. Ready to embark on this epic quest alongside Mario, Luigi, and Bowser? Let’s get started!

Understanding Basic Controls#

Alright, adventurers! Welcome to the whimsical world of Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned Mario master, this guide is here to help you get a handle on the basic controls so you can navigate through the game with ease. Let’s dive in!

Movement and Exploration 🎮#

You control different characters throughout the game: Mario, Luigi, and Bowser. Here’s how to move them around:

• Circle Pad/D-Pad: Use this to move your characters in any direction. Control Mario and Luigi on the top screen when they’re outside Bowser’s body and Bowser himself when you’re on the overworld.
• A Button: Makes Mario jump.
• B Button: Makes Luigi jump.
• X Button (Bowser): Press this to make Bowser punch. He uses this to break rocks, flip switches, and even clobber some enemies.

Switching Characters 🔄#

In the game, you’ll switch between controlling Mario & Luigi and Bowser. Each has unique abilities and moves crucial for solving puzzles and progressing through the story. Here’s how you do it:

• Start Button: Switches the view between Mario & Luigi and Bowser. This will swap your controls between the inside and outside of Bowser’s body.

Exploring Inside Bowser 🕵️‍♂️#

While controlling Mario and Luigi inside Bowser, the controls change a bit. Here’s how:

• Y Button: Spins Mario to interact with objects.
• R Button: Switches between Mario and Luigi for certain tasks and setups.
• Tap the Touch Screen: Sometimes you’ll tap on the touch screen to direct characters or to activate special moves, especially during specific battles or puzzle-solving scenarios.

Battles ⚔️#

The game features a unique turn-based combat system with classic Mario RPG elements. Here’s how to make your moves count:

Mario & Luigi#

• A Button: Mario’s attacks and counters.
• B Button: Luigi’s attacks and counters.
• Left Trigger + Attack Button: Use Action Commands for special attacks, which deal more damage if you time it right.
• Right Trigger (Select Bro Item): Switch between different usable battle items.

Bowser#

• X Button: Bowser’s basic attack (Punch).
• Y Button: Fire Breath attack.
• Left Trigger + Attack Button: Execute special attacks.
• Right Trigger (Select Minion Item): Selects different minion-based attack strategies.

Special Moves 🌟#

Mario & Luigi use Bro Moves that require precise timing:

• A+B Buttons Together: Special Bros Moves, like the Green Shell attack.
• L/R Buttons: Rotate and select through the various special moves you’ve unlocked.

Bowser learns Special Moves by encountering specific enemies or items:

• Touch Screen: Required for some of Bowser’s mighty attacks, like the Fire Breath where you’ll slide your stylus to guide the flame.

Tips for Mastering Controls 🏆#

1. Practice Timing: Many actions require accurate timing. Spend time practicing to get the most out of attacks.
2. Experiment with Switching: Swap between characters often to get used to their unique controls.
3. Use the Tutorials: The game offers helpful tutorials for moves you unlock. Don’t skip them—they are there to help!
4. Save Often: Always save before tough battles or exploring new areas.

With these controls, you’ll be squashing Goombas, solving brain-bending puzzles, and exploring every nook and cranny of this delightful game. Now, get out there and show Bowser who’s boss, both inside and out!

Navigating the Game World#

Getting Started#

In Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story, exploring the game world is split between controlling Mario and Luigi inside Bowser’s body and controlling Bowser himself outside in the Mushroom Kingdom. The game switches between these two perspectives frequently, so understanding how to navigate both is key to progressing smoothly.

Inside Bowser’s Body#

When Mario and Luigi are inside Bowser, the environments resemble interconnected systems within the giant Koopa’s anatomy. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Map and Navigation: Inside Bowser, the map is like a maze. You can bring it up by pressing the X button. Keep an eye out for blinking exclamations marks, as they often indicate key areas or objectives.
• Bro Abilities: You’ll often use the brothers’ abilities (like the Spin Jump or the Drill Dive) to get to harder-to-reach places, solve puzzles, and interact with the environment. Keep swapping between Mario and Luigi with the D-pad to make the most of their skills.
• Passageways and Tunnels: There are numerous passageways linking different sections of Bowser’s body. Pay attention to visual clues, like color-coded pipes and organic pathways, to figure out where each tunnel leads.

Bowser’s Outside World#

When playing as Bowser, you’ll navigate the outside world, dealing with enemies, obstacles, and puzzles. Bowser’s navigation is a bit different from Mario and Luigi’s:

• Map and Landmarks: Bowser has his own map, which you can access by pressing the X button. Areas in the Mushroom Kingdom are much larger and more open compared to inside Bowser’s body. Look for landmarks like Peach’s Castle or Fawful Theater to guide your way.
• Bowser’s Abilities: Bowser can punch, breathe fire, and use his minions to clear pathways or engage in battles. Keep experimenting with his abilities to overcome obstacles and unlock new areas.
• Backtracking: Sometimes, you’ll need to backtrack to previous areas as Bowser gains new abilities that let him access previously unreachable places. The map will often mark these areas with a special icon, so keep an eye out and remember where you’ve been.

Emphasizing Synergy#

The key to mastering the game world is understanding the synergy between Mario, Luigi, and Bowser. Here’s how you can make the most of it:

• Communication Points: Throughout the game, you’ll find special points where Bowser can interact with Mario and Luigi. These points often trigger events where the brothers need to perform actions inside Bowser to help him overcome obstacles outside. Keep a lookout for these!
• Ability Interaction: Sometimes Bowser will find himself stuck, and only Mario and Luigi can help by triggering certain reactions inside his body. For example, punching a specific nerve inside Bowser might make him do a powerful attack outside. Likewise, solving puzzles inside Bowser might unlock new pathways for him outside.

Key Tips for Smooth Navigation#

• Save Often: Always save your game at save blocks whenever you find them. This will save your progress and point you in the right direction if you’re lost.
• Watch for Tutorial Characters: Starlow, the helpful star sprite, frequently appears to provide tips or reminders. Don’t skip the dialogue as it often contains helpful hints.
• Use Items Wisely: Both Mario & Luigi and Bowser have their own sets of items and gear. Use healing items and power-ups strategically to keep your characters in top shape for battling and exploration.

Remember, the more you explore, the more you’ll uncover. Don’t be afraid to retrace your steps or try out different abilities on familiar obstacles. Happy adventuring in the belly of the beast and beyond!

Key Locations and Their Challenges#

Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story is packed with diverse locations, each with its own set of unique challenges. Here, we’ll break down some key areas you’ll explore in the game and what you need to watch out for in each.

Toad Town#

Challenges:

• Toad Town Caves: Early in the game, you’ll navigate the caves beneath Toad Town. Look out for tricky platforming sections and basic puzzles. Enemies here are relatively easy but good for practice.
• Fawful Theater: Later on, Fawful Theater presents tougher puzzles and stronger enemies. It’s a good idea to stock up on items before heading in.

Tips:

• Practice your timing for jump attacks here; it’s crucial for bosses later.
• Talk to all NPCs – they often give hints or useful items.

Cavi Cape#

Challenges:

• Shell Blocks: In Cavi Cape, you’ll encounter Shell Blocks that can be challenging to hit at first. Perfect your timing to make the most of these opportunities.
• Mini-Game: Bowser discovers the Body Slam ability here. Use it to solve puzzles and defeat enemies blocking your way.

Tips:

• Use Bowser’s inhaling ability to clear enemies with shields or special defenses.
• Keep an eye on your health, as the enemies start ramping up in difficulty.

Bowser’s Castle#

Challenges:

• Bowser’s Minions: As you progress, Bowser’s Castle becomes infested with his own wayward minions, each with unique attack patterns. Study them to avoid unnecessary damage.
• Fire Pipes: Navigate a series of fire obstacles that require precise timing to avoid damage.

Tips:

• Make liberal use of Bowser’s fire breath to clear paths and secret areas.
• Check all rooms thoroughly for hidden blocks and items.

Dimble Wood#

Challenges:

• Wiggler Boss Fight: The Wiggler boss in Dimble Wood is tricky. Balance between attacking its segments and dodging incoming attacks.
• Giant Battles: You’ll face giant battles where Bowser literally grows to enormous size. Use stylus controls effectively to succeed.

Tips:

• During giant battles, follow the on-screen prompts exactly; missing them can lead to big trouble.
• Explore off the beaten path for extra treasures and items.

Inside Bowser (Bowser’s Body Areas)#

Challenges:

• Chakroad: Inside Bowser are Chakroads that act as warp points. These areas have some tough puzzles primarily involving Mario and Luigi’s tag-team abilities.
• Rump Command: This mini-game area requires quick reflexes to help Bowser in the outside world.

Tips:

• Keep Mario and Luigi’s health topped off, as enemy encounters can quickly turn challenging.
• Experiment with different Bros. Attacks in battles to see which ones are most effective against different enemies.

Energy Hold#

Challenges:

• Puzzle Elements: Energy Hold is a puzzle-heavy area. Activate switches, navigate tricky platforming segments, and avoid enemy traps.
• Boss Fight - Beta Kretin: Be ready for a tough boss at the end that splits into two, requiring Mario and Luigi to coordinate their attacks effectively.

Tips:

• Carefully observe how puzzle mechanisms interact; rushing through often leads to mistakes.
• Use Thunder Bros. to stun enemies and gain a strategic advantage in battles.

Pro Tips for All Locations#

• Save Often: Always use save blocks before entering new areas or right after tough battles.
• Item Management: Keep a plentiful supply of healing items, as well as 1-Up Mushrooms for reviving fallen bros.
• Grinding Levels: Don’t shy away from a bit of level grinding. Being slightly over-leveled can make tricky battles much easier.

Navigating the world of Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story can be tough, but with attention and strategy, you’ll master these key locations in no time!

Using Abilities and Powers Effectively#

In Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story, knowing how to use each character’s abilities and powers is key to mastering the game. Both Mario and Luigi have their own unique set of skills, and Bowser brings a whole different playstyle. Let’s break down how to use these abilities effectively so you can navigate through battles and puzzles with ease.

Mario and Luigi’s Abilities#

Bros. Attacks#

Mario and Luigi have powerful tag-team moves known as Bros. Attacks. These moves consume BP (Bros Points), so use them wisely. Here are some tips to maximize their effectiveness:

• Practice Makes Perfect: Each Bros. Attack comes with a timing challenge. Spend some time practicing these attacks to hit the perfect timing, which can deal massive damage to your enemies.
• Mix It Up: Some enemies are weak to specific types of attacks. Don’t hesitate to switch Bros. Attacks to find the most effective move for different foes.
• Manage BP: Always keep an eye on your BP. Use items like Syrup Jars to replenish BP when running low. The last thing you want is to run out during a tough battle!

Special Moves#

Mario and Luigi learn special moves that help you solve puzzles and explore new areas. For example:

• Jump (A Button): Use this to jump over obstacles and hit question blocks.
• Spin Jump (Both Bros): Allows you to cross large gaps.
• Hammer (B Button): Break rocks and activate switches.

Master these moves to uncover secrets and navigate tricky platforms.

Bowser’s Abilities#

Minion Attacks#

Bowser commands his minions to perform devastating attacks. These moves rely on SP (Special Points), similar to Bros. Points for Mario and Luigi. Here’s how to get the best out of them:

• Timing and Power: Minion attacks often require precise timing to increase their power. For instance, press the button when the signal flashes to deliver a more effective strike.
• Don’t Forget to Refill: Use Drumsticks and other items to keep Bowser’s health and SP up. Running out of SP can leave you at a disadvantage during boss fights.

Vacuum Block#

The Vacuum Block allows Bowser to inhale enemies and certain objects. Here’s how to use it:

• Suck Up Enemies: During battles, use the Vacuum Block to inhale smaller enemies. This can sometimes revert them to inside Bowser’s body, where Mario and Luigi can fight them directly.
• Interactive Objects: In the overworld, inhaling certain objects can reveal hidden pathways or activate mechanisms crucial for progression.

Synergize Between Characters#

A key strategy in Bowser’s Inside Story is using Mario, Luigi, and Bowser’s abilities together. Here are a few synergy tips:

• Body-Control Sequence: Boss battles often require controlling both inside and outside Bowser’s body. Switch between controlling Bowser and the Mario Bros to keep the pressure on the boss from all sides.
• Environmental Puzzle Solving: Many areas require switching between characters to move forward. For example, Mario and Luigi can work inside Bowser to activate mechanisms that clear obstacles in Bowser’s path outside.
• Health Management: Balance healing items and abilities between the characters. For instance, use Mario and Luigi’s healing abilities on Bowser when exploring dangerous zones.

Mastering these abilities and learning when to use them is crucial for progressing through the game and defeating tricky enemies. Keep practicing, don’t be afraid to experiment, and soon you’ll be breezing through Magicant with ease. Happy gaming!

Strategies for Boss Battles#

Boss battles in Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story can be some of the most challenging and rewarding parts of the game. Whether you’re controlling Bowser or the dynamic duo, these tips will help you crush your enemies and stay ahead in the adventure.

1. Know Your Enemy#

Before jumping into any boss fight, take a moment to understand your enemy. Pay attention to their attack patterns in the first few turns. Bosses usually have tells before they perform a big move. Recognizing these early can save you a ton of damage later. Don’t forget to use Tattle abilities if available. It gives you insight into the boss’s HP and weaknesses.

2. Keep Everyone Healthy#

Having a good supply of recovery items like Mushrooms and Syrup Jars is essential. Keep an eye on your HP and SP (Special Points). Never let Mario, Luigi, or Bowser fall below half health. For Mario and Luigi, if one brother faints, it can be really tough to revive them mid-battle without taking extra hits. Same with Bowser – keep him tanky and in the fight by healing before you’re in the danger zone.

3. Make the Most of Special Attacks#

Special Attacks can turn the tide of battle quickly, especially if you’ve been diligent about collecting Attack Pieces. These powerful moves often deal more damage than regular attacks and can target multiple foes or hit multiple times. Practice them in the menu to get the timing right. Spam these, but smartly – know when to switch between them for optimal damage.

4. Guard Diligently#

Blocking and dodging are just as crucial as dishing out damage. Get familiar with each boss’s attack animations. For Mario and Luigi, jump or hammer at just the right moment to deflect attacks. Bowser has his own unique guard mechanics, like punching away incoming damage or using his shell. The less damage you take, the fewer healing items you’ll need to use.

5. Exploit Boss Weaknesses#

Bosses in the game often have specific weaknesses which can be exploited for extra damage. Study their elemental affinities – some might be weak to fire, others to ice or electric attacks. Equip the right gear and badges that enhance these attacks to maximize your damage output. Remember, a boss struggling to defend against an elemental onslaught is a boss that’s easier to defeat!

6. Use Bowser’s Minions#

In battles where you control Bowser, don’t forget his minions can come in handy. Use Goomba Storm or Koopa Corps when you’re up against overwhelming odds. These can help chip away at the boss’s health while Bowser focuses on staying alive and dealing massive damage with fewer, stronger hits.

7. Keep an Eye on Stamina and Buffs#

Buffs and debuffs can be game-changers in a prolonged fight. Use items and abilities that increase your attack power, defense, or agility. Likewise, inflict the boss with status effects like Poison or Burn to deal continual damage over time. Group buffs are especially useful for Mario and Luigi to keep them both fighting fit.

8. Revive Quickly#

If Mario or Luigi goes down, revive them as soon as you can using a 1-Up Mushroom. Fighting with only one brother severely limits your strategic options and keeps you on the back foot. For Bowser, if his health gets critical, use a Max Mushroom to avoid a game over screen.

9. Adapt and Improvise#

No strategy is foolproof, and sometimes you’ll need to adapt on the fly. If a particular tactic isn’t working, switch things up. Change your approach, try a different set of moves, or focus more on defense for a few turns to reassess the situation.

10. Save Often#

Lastly, always save your game before a boss fight. This way, if things go south, you can reload without significant progress loss. Being able to reattempt a fight with a fresh start can sometimes be the difference between win and defeat.

Following these strategies will arm you with the knowledge to topple even the toughest bosses in Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story. Good luck out there, and happy stomping!