Summary

An exemplary sequel that builds on the foundation of Super Mario Galaxy, introducing new gameplay mechanics, power-ups, and the addition of Yoshi. Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a testament to Nintendo’s mastery over the platforming genre, offering a fresh, engaging experience that captivates players from start to finish.

Release Year: 2010
Genres: Adventure, Platform
Platforms: Wii, Wii U
Developers: Nintendo, Nintendo EAD

Introduction

Super Mario Galaxy 2, developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii in 2010, is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mario franchise. This sequel not only revisits the outer space setting of its predecessor but also introduces new features that enrich the gameplay experience.

Synopsis

Super Mario Galaxy 2, a sequel to the original Super Mario Galaxy, was released in May 2010. Developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii, it was first announced at E3 2009. The game is a platformer with action-adventure elements, featuring both single-player and multiplayer modes.

The story of Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a thrilling cosmic adventure. It follows the beloved character Mario as he once again embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. This time, Bowser has not only kidnapped Princess Peach but has also taken control of the universe using Power Stars and Grand Stars. Bowser’s plan is to create an evil galactic empire at the center of the universe.

The game begins in the Mushroom Kingdom, where Princess Peach is holding a celebration for the kingdom’s anniversary. Mario is invited to the celebration, but it gets interrupted by Bowser, who is here to create a devastated place in space. It’s up to Mario to pursue Bowser, with help from his friend Luma and a loyal companion named Lubba.

As Mario travels the cosmos, he explores various galaxies, each with varying themes, sizes, landscapes, and climates. He meets new species and joins up with his companion Yoshi, the Toad Brigade from the original Super Mario Galaxy, and his brother Luigi. All of them join Mario on the starship.

The gameplay of Super Mario Galaxy 2 is near-identical to its predecessor’s, with a focus on platforming based on and around 3D planets, grouped into levels known as galaxies. Mario has special abilities such as the “Spin” attack, long jump, wall jumps, and a variety of somersaults. The objective of the game is to travel to the various galaxies and collect Power Stars, which are awarded by completing levels and accomplishing tasks. These Power Stars are used to gain access to later levels.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 retains various gameplay mechanics introduced in the original, such as the blue Star Pointer that allows the player to collect Star Bits and shoot them at enemies, levels that restrict movement to a 2D plane, balance ball levels, and gravity-reversing background arrows. Among the new additions are dynamic environments, new power-ups, and the addition of Yoshi.

Upon release, Super Mario Galaxy 2 was met with critical acclaim, and was considered to match or surpass its lauded predecessor, with its creativity, level design, gameplay, music, and technological improvements over the original receiving high praise. It is frequently regarded by critics and fans to be one of the greatest video games of all time and is one of the best-selling games on the Wii, with over seven million copies sold worldwide.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a game that takes players on a thrilling journey across the cosmos, filled with exciting challenges, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. It’s a game that truly stands as a testament to Nintendo’s creativity and innovation in the world of video games.

Characters

Mario, the iconic plumber and hero; Princess Peach, the damsel in distress; Bowser, the perennial antagonist; Yoshi, Mario’s dinosaur friend who provides new abilities; Luigi, Mario’s brother who can join in the adventure.

Gameplay

Super Mario Galaxy 2 expands on the original’s gameplay with the addition of Yoshi, who offers unique movement options and abilities. New power-ups like the Cloud Flower and Rock Mushroom introduce novel ways to explore and solve puzzles. The game’s levels are designed around the concepts of gravity and three-dimensional space, offering innovative and challenging platforming gameplay.

Conclusion

Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a shining example of Nintendo’s ability to innovate within its established franchises. It retains the charm and inventiveness of its predecessor while introducing enough new elements to stand on its own. A must-play for fans of the series and platformer enthusiasts alike.