Star Rod

The Star Rod is stolen from Star Haven by Bowser at the beginning of Paper Mario and used to grant all of his wishes. Mario and his partners must save the seven Star Spirits to deactivate the power of the Star Rod.

According to Russ T., who lives in Toad Town, the Star Rod was created by ancient magic long ago.

The Star Rod is most likely a nod to Nintendo's Kirby series. The Star Rod (from the Kirby series) was later seen in Super Smash Brothers Melee as an attack item.