Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2: Out of This World Fun
So, I gotta be real with you guys, it’s been a hot minute since I last played Super Mario Galaxy or Galaxy 2. Like, I dipped my toes into Super Mario 3D All-Stars, but I mainly focused on Mario Sunshine (nostalgia, am I right?) before getting distracted by other games. Fast forward to now, and I’ve tried out these classics on Switch 2, and let me tell you, they still hold up as some of the best 3D platformers out there.
The first thing I noticed diving back into these games is that, while they’re still amazing, there are some minor technical issues that stand out a bit more now compared to when they first released 15 years ago. But hey, that’s just a small hiccup in the grand scheme of things. The real star of the show here is the sheer creativity that Nintendo poured into these games. Whether you’re gliding across a frozen lake under a starry sky with a beautiful piano soundtrack or battling a colossal Bowser on a floating meteor with epic orchestral music, these games deliver unforgettable experiences that will stick with you for a lifetime.
Now, let’s talk visuals. Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2 have never looked better. Playing them on Switch 2 allows you to enjoy them in up to 4K when docked and 1080p in handheld mode. Plus, many textures have been updated to look even sharper at these higher resolutions. The UI has also received a facelift with a cleaner layout, new font, and slightly smaller icons. Overall, the games look absolutely glorious on the Switch.
Gameplay wise, there are some added features to enhance your experience. ‘Co-Star Mode’ makes a comeback, allowing a friend to join in and help out with collecting Star Bits or defeating enemies. And if you need a little extra assistance, ‘Assist Mode’ from Super Mario Odyssey is here to give you a health boost and help prevent damage in tricky situations. Plus, there are new storybook chapters to explore and even some support for amiibo, though they don’t add much value to the gameplay.
When it comes to controls, there are some adjustments to make up for the lack of a Wii Sensor Bar on the Switch. Gyro controls are used for tasks like collecting Star Bits and executing the Spin Attack, but it can feel a bit awkward at times. In handheld mode, you can use the touchscreen or gyro controls for the pointer, though you may find yourself readjusting the cursor frequently. Despite these quirks, Mario’s movements feel as smooth and natural as ever, offering a delightful platforming experience.
In terms of pricing, each game is available for $39.99 separately or $69.99 for the bundle. Some might argue that the price is a bit steep for older titles, but the quality and value you get from these classics are undeniable. Whether you’re playing on Switch 1 or Switch 2, you’re in for over 40 hours of top-notch gaming that showcases the best of what the Mario series has to offer.
In conclusion, Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2 stand as shining examples of exceptional game design. Despite some minor issues here and there, the creativity, gameplay, and overall experience these games provide are unmatched. So, if you’re a fan of platformers or just looking for a good time, do yourself a favor and give these stellar titles a go. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
