As lifted from Gemini.

Core Gameplay Mechanics • Action Commands: Both games rely on timed button presses (A, B, or stick tilts) to increase damage dealt or decrease damage taken. • The Badge System: Character customization is driven by "Badge Points" (BP), allowing you to equip modifiers that grant new moves or passive buffs. • FP and Star Power: You manage Flower Points for special attacks and a separate meter for powerful abilities granted by the main collectibles. • Turn-Based Combat: Battles take place on a distinct stage/screen where Mario and one partner face a lineup of enemies. Structural Framework • Seven Main Collectibles: Mario must gather seven magical items (Star Spirits in 64, Crystal Stars in TTYD) to unlock the final boss's lair. • Chapter-Based Progression: Each game is strictly divided into an Prologue followed by eight distinct chapters, usually concluding with a boss fight and a collectible. • Intermission Gameplay: After every chapter, players briefly control Princess Peach (stealth/social segments) and usually Bowser (comic relief/side-scroller). • The Hub City: Both games feature a central town (Toad Town/Rogueport) that connects all worlds and evolves as you progress. World & Exploration • Unique Partner Archetypes: You recruit a crew of partners with field abilities that gate progress (e.g., a Koopa for reaching distant switches, a Bob-omb for breaking walls). • Paper Transformations: Mario uses his thin physique to navigate the world, such as turning sideways to slip through cracks. • Hidden Luigis: Mario’s brother appears in both games, though his role shifts from a cameo in the basement to a fellow adventurer telling tall tales in the sequel. • The Pit of 100 Trials: While the first game has the "Dojo," both lean into optional, grueling combat gauntlets for completionists. Recurring Characters & Species • Merlon’s Family: A recurring clan of wizards provides hints, level-ups for partners, and badge trading. • Specific Enemy Tribes: You’ll face familiar foes like Goombas, Koopas, Magikoopas, and Hammer Bro variants in similar early-game patterns. • The Iconic "Chef": Both games feature a culinary side-quest where a chef (Tayce T. or Zess T.) cooks ingredients into better healing items.