What is the title of the first Paper Mario game?

The title of the first Paper Mario game is Paper Mario. Developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo, it debuted in Japan for the Nintendo 64 in 2000 and reached international markets in 2001.

The game began as a planned Nintendo 64 role-playing project connected to Super Mario RPG, but Square was unavailable because it was developing Final Fantasy VII. Intelligent Systems ultimately developed the game, creating its distinctive paper-cutout presentation, turn-based battles, partners, badges, and timed Action Commands.

The story follows Mario after Bowser steals the Star Rod, imprisons seven Star Spirits, and makes himself invincible. Mario must rescue the spirits, defeat Bowser's minions, and save Princess Peach. The title is sometimes confused with Paper Mario 64, an informal fan nickname based on its Nintendo 64 release; Paper Mario is the official title. Its first direct sequel was Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door for the GameCube in 2004.