This is the type of game that makes people overly defensive of Nintendo. There was a stretch when their games were weird, funny, and had a sense of charm to them, and that's what people keep hoping to recapture.
The Thousand Year Door might be THE example of this. You have a mystery on a train, a wrestling promotion area, a dragon that hates frogs, and Identity Theft. These are such huge swings that the game leaves a lasting impression.
This may seem like I'm going "it's all style over substance" but that's not true. Part of what makes it work is that it's really solid to play (maybe a couple hours too long, but few games aren't). The environments are vibrant and fun to be in. The characters are great and full of personality. There's a lot good about this game.
Also I am surprised I haven't seen more Goth Queen Peach fanart in passing.