Superstar- Super Mario Galaxy 2 Review

It’s no accident that Mario is one of the most recognized characters in gaming. His ubiquitous image is nearly synonymous with the pastime, uniting fans typically separated by age, geography, and gaming experience. Part of the plumber’s success may be related to his methodical maturation. Whereas many of his 8-bit contemporaries have struggled to remain relevant, Mario’s exploits have presented players with a measured amount of innovation; most of the icon’s titles are cautious reworkings rather than comprehensive overhauls. Recent release Super Mario Galaxy 2 maintains the trend, taking the accomplished mechanics of its predecessor, and adding enough new elements so that the title feels familiar, yet never tedious.

A good portion of the game’s success emanates from both the sheer amount of variety and the speed at which players travel through each level. One moment players are bouncing precariously across spinning planks, the next moment they are defying gravity (and convention) by running across a ceiling in a transposed gravity field. Although each stage in Galaxy 2 is constructed from a common pool of assets, players will probably be moving too quickly through each interstellar location to notice.

Each of the alterations the title does make are fastidiously thought out. Early in the game, players will discover a green and white speckled egg which houses the franchise’s beloved dinosaur. Unlike Yoshi’s uneasy transition into the 3D world of Super Mario Sunshine, Mario’s pet is perfectly implemented in Galaxy 2. By using the Wiimote’s IR functionality, players are able to extend the companions tongue to swallow a thorny foe, or swing from rafters in a manner reminiscent of Bionic Commando. Wisely, the title restricts players to riding the dinosaur through specific stages, making Yoshi’s appearance feel like an intermittent reward. Later, gamers will be awarded a variety of suits that provide Mario with a range of special abilities, each contributing to the title’s dexterous sense of variety.

Those who complained that Super Mario Galaxy was too easy will delight in the increased challenge offered by the sequel. Some of the more difficult levels (and definitely the game’s epilogue bonus level) can eliminate a stockpile of lives in a manner of seconds. Despite this change, Galaxy 2 never feels unfair. Each fatal misstep is caused by an error judgment or unfamiliarity with a new environment, rather than a specific section being too demanding. If the game ever becomes too tough players have a number of helpful resources: players may scrutinize hint monitors, or even skip the section entirely forsaking their gold star for an ego-eliminating bronzed substitute.

Graphically, Galaxy 2 improves upon its already phenomenal forerunner. The title’s visual specs superbly exploit the Wii’s capabilities with a 480P, widescreen image that customarily offers the fluidity of a 60 frames per second refresh rate. Like the majority of Mario titles, each Koopa Troopa, Thwomp, and Wiggler are sinuously animated and skillfully textured, lending the foes an endearing personality. Series enthusiasts will note the integration of several key Mario melodies, while all participants will be delighted by the game’s opulent orchestral soundtrack.

Don’t let the digit in the title fool you – Super Mario Galaxy 2 is much more than your average video game sequel. Overflowing with a continual barrage of smile-inducing gameplay, the title is a must-play experience for all Wii owners. With the ability to make even the fussiest player overcome with blissful delight, Galaxy 2 is a reminder of why we play games.