There’s no franchise quite likeSuper Mario, but even among the rich and prestigious pedigree of this foundational video game series,Super Mario Galaxy 2stands in a league of its own. Now that the space-faring platformer is a whopping 15 years old, it’s worth examining and celebrating it in the context ofNintendo’s other big-budget releases, as it’s a remarkably unique project.
Released in 2007,Super Mario Galaxywas the first 3DMariogame for the Nintendo Wii, followingSuper Mario Sunshineon the GameCube. It’s somewhat hard to believe given the massive leaps in graphical fidelity and ambition between each entry, butMario Galaxyis actually only the third 3D platformer in theSuper Mariofranchise—its cultural significance being a testament to the prestige of the series as a whole. As its name suggests,Super Mario Galaxytakes players to the stars, integrating a number of unique level concepts, traversal mechanics, and upgrades, making it a breath of fresh air for even the most seasonedMarioplayers. But then, just three years later, something else happened that would solidify its uniqueness in theMariooeuvre:Super Mario Galaxy 2came out.
To This Day, Super Mario Galaxy 2 Is the Only Direct 3D Mario Sequel
While many still prefer the first game, it’s hard to deny thatSuper Mario Galaxy 2has some clear advantages over its predecessor. The sequel’s strengths can mostly be attributed to the wealth of new content and fresh ideas brought to the table:Super Mario Galaxy 2has more power-ups, more levels, and new mechanics, including a mountable Yoshi, who has his own applicable upgrades. It’s not just more of the same, either, asSuper Mario Galaxy2is more difficult and fast-paced than the first game, with a greater abundance of tightly designed, challenging platforming levels in contrast to its predecessor’s more expansive, exploration-focused environment design.
By sticking to the formula established by the firstSuper Mario Galaxywithout being totally beholden to it,Super Mario Galaxy2manages to be a must-play for fans of the first game, maintaining its singular charm, art direction, and gameplay philosophy, while also feeling fresh and original.Super Mario Galaxyis a strong candidate for the best execution ofthe 3DMarioformula, so there’s wisdom in milking its premise for all that it’s worth. But of course,Super Mario Galaxy 2’s very existence raises an interesting question about the 3DMarioseries as a whole.
Should There Be More Direct Sequels Like Super Mario Galaxy 2?
Super Mario Galaxy 2speaks to the success of the first game, but many gamers would argue thatSuper Mario Odyssey,Super Mario 64, orSuper Mario Sunshineare superior titles; everyone has an opinion aboutwhich 3DMariogame is the best. Put another way, one might wonder why it is onlySuper Mario Galaxythat got a direct sequel, while Nintendo has taken a one-and-done approach with all other entries in the series.
Maybe future 3DMariogames will take a note out ofGalaxy’s playbook and directly build on what came before them. There haven’t been any confirmed reports about aSuper Mario Odysseyfollow-up, but maybe Nintendo could take this direct-sequel approach again.Odyssey, much like the firstGalaxygame, still has a lot of potential for growth and experimentation, so although new ideas are always worth exploring, revisiting broader concepts can be just as rewarding—Super Mario Galaxy 2is undeniable proof of this.
Super Mario Galaxy 2
WHERE TO PLAY
Join the one and only Mario as you journey to mind-blowing planets where all-new pitfalls and perils await you, in Super Mario Galaxy 2!
