Key Takeaways
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- Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are now available on the Nintendo Switch, offering improved graphics and performance at 4K resolution and 60 fps.
- The games maintain their original gameplay and controls, with motion controls for the Switch version mimicking those of the Wii version.
- While both games offer some additional content like assist mode, new Rosalinas storybook pages, and access to the full soundtrack, they lack substantial updates such as new worlds, levels, art galleries, or developer commentary.
- Fans were hoping for more significant enhancements, given that 18 years have passed since the original releases and compared to other remastered games like Metroid Prime Remastered.
Our favorite Goodies
Super Mario
Super Mario
Reimagined Galaxy: The Return of Two Platforming Pioneers on Switch
When Nintendo announced that Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 were coming to Switch, fans became excited. These are, after all, two of the greatest platform games ever made. However, Nintendo’s ports are fairly basic, offering 4K resolution at 60 fps on both Switch models. While still enjoyable, some had hoped for more, especially given that 18 years have passed since the originals’ release. In 2007, as the Wii was breaking sales records, Super Mario Galaxy debuted, revolutionizing 3D platformers. Directed by Yoshiaki Koizumi, who had previously created Donkey Kong Jungle Beat and later became a regular in Nintendo Directs, the game sent Mario soaring into space. The concept involved tiny planets with unique gravities, around which Mario could run upside down and jump between, creating intuitive gameplay. The soundtrack, featuring “Gusty Garden Galaxy” by Koji Kondo and Mahito Yokota, enhanced the sensory experience, showcasing Nintendo’s interactive artistry. Super Mario Galaxy became a hit for its gameplay and technology, proving that video games could be enchanting without relying on cinematics or dialogue.
Super Mario Galaxy 2: Elevating Spatial Exploration in Platformers
Three years later, Nintendo released Super Mario Galaxy 2. Initially conceived as an add-on, the project evolved into a more ambitious sequel packed with ideas. While the first game had a poetic tone with its observatory and Rosalina, Galaxy 2 focused on gameplay. Classic power-ups like the fire flower and bee returned, along with new ones like Cloud Mario, Dr. Mario, and Rock Mario. Yoshi’s debut enhanced gameplay, his tongue acting as a grappling hook or catapult. Under Koichi Hayashida’s direction, with Yoshiaki Koizumi as producer and Kondo and Yokota composing the music, Super Mario Galaxy 2 delivered a non-stop barrage of creative level design. The game inspired titles like Astro Bot. Super Mario Galaxy and its sequel elevated spatial exploration in platforming games with amusement-park-inspired gameplay and music. The first game, released in 2007, set a new standard for 3D platformers. The 2010 follow-up enhanced the experience with new transformations, Yoshi, and ingenious level design.
Enhanced Mario Galaxies on Switch: A Tidy Port Compared to Metroid Prime Remastered
When Nintendo announced the games were coming to Switch, excitement quickly turned to disappointment upon their release. These versions of Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are not remasters or remakes, but cleaned-up versions of the original games adapted for modern screens. The motion gaming elements from the Wii era remain, and while the games look better, with sharper textures and smooth 60fps performance (which isn’t possible on the original Switch), the original 3D models reveal their age when the camera gets close. Compared to Metroid Prime Remastered, these ports offer minimal enhancements and feel uninspired. Ultimately, Mario Galaxy on the Switch is just a tidied-up port, which has left fans wanting more.
Super Mario Galaxy on Switch: Familiar Controls, Enhanced Experience – Missing Extra Content?
Playing Super Mario Galaxy on the Switch closely resembles the Wii experience, as Nintendo retained many of the original control elements. Whether playing in handheld mode or docked, the motion controls translate directly: Steer with the left stick, aim with the right Joy-Con’s gyro sensor, and shake or press a button to attack. For those accustomed to the original Wii controls, this setup will feel familiar. However, new players hoping for a more modern control scheme may be disappointed. The 4K graphics don’t prevent potential arm fatigue from extended motion control use. Regarding content, both games are available separately or as a bundle on the Switch. Each includes an assist mode that provides extra health, reduces damage, and enables auto-recovery. New pages have been added to Rosalina’s storybook, and the full soundtrack is accessible from the main menu, offering a musical bonus for fans of Yokota and Kondo. However, the lack of additional content, such as new worlds, levels, art galleries, or developer commentary, feels underwhelming in light of Mario’s 40-year history.
Enhanced Graphics, Minimal Updates: Fans Miss Out on More for Super Mario Galaxy on Switch
In conclusion, while the Super Mario Galaxy ports bring these classic games to the Switch, they offer minimal enhancements beyond updated graphics and performance, potentially leaving fans wanting more substantial updates.
In Case You Missed It
In the vibrant world of gaming, Nintendo enthusiasts are thrilled about an upcoming treat – the luxurious vinyl set of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’s iconic soundtrack, available for pre-order now! Mark your calendars for June 19, 2026, as this collectors’ item comes in two sets: a double LP with 34 tracks for €41.95 or an eight-LP extravaganza featuring 130 tracks for €167.95 (check it out here Luxurious 8-Vinyl Set for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’s Game Soundtrack by Nintendo).
If you’re craving a dose of behind-the-scenes gaming drama, don’t miss Marcus Thompson’s ‘The Almost Realized Matrix Game by Hideo Kojima’, published on 2025-10-27. Dive into the fascinating untold tale of The Wachowski sisters’ attempt to collaborate with gaming legend Hideo Kojima (read all about it here The Almost Realized Matrix Game by Hideo Kojima).
Meanwhile, in the realm of cinema, our very own Bruno Pferd has just dropped a comprehensive guide to this week’s Netflix releases. Published on 2025-10-20, his post “Netflix: This Week’s Releases Featuring Cult Films and a Highly Anticipated New Release” is a treasure trove of cinematic delights. From cult classics like ‘The Blair Witch Project’, ‘American Psycho’, and ‘Kill Bill: Volumes 1 & 2’ to the highly anticipated thriller ‘A House of Dynamite’ starring Rebecca Ferguson, there’s something for everyone (check it out here Netflix: This Week’s Releases Featuring Cult Films and a Highly Anticipated New Release). So, grab your popcorn and enjoy!
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Groove Coaster: Initial Initial Echo Ego |
| Brief Summary | undefined |
| Genre | Music |
| Play Modes | Single player |
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