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.
Oh man, I cant wait for this one.
I’m sure I’ll be getting this one. I love the Mario games.
Wow, sounds fantastic!
Back to back “A”‘s. Wow, just wow.
In a way I’m glad Nintendo doesn’t release videos for there big games. I want the full experience.
Here take my $50, Nintendo. I want this game sooo bad.
I’m glad to hear it’s a bit harder. SMG was a bit boring it was so easy (except for those extra levels)
This comes out Sunday, right?
The first is hands down my favorite Wii game.
Yeah, I’ll pretty amazed.
I’m kinda glad that grump NOLA didn’t review this one.
7 Worlds with 7 levels again?
Desert, where do you find the time to review all these games?!?
One look at those pics has me all fired up. I cant wait for this.
Better than the 1up review that talked all bad about it and ended up giving it a big “A” grade.
Yep, got it preordered!
He cloned himself to start an explosion loving army.
day one purchase. Nintendo’s Mario games never disappoint.
Why cant all Wii games look at good as this one?
Man, that dragon looks amazing. Like something on a 360 game.
Did Miyamoto work on this one?
Great review by the way.
You had me at Yoshi! I’ll be getting this one for sure.
Awesome review for an awesome game! Unanimously positive reviews.
The mario games are the only Wii games that everyone in my family has will sit down and play or watch.
i pre ordered it…i cannot wait!
Great review, very well-written!
This is out Sunday, right?
What was the just “OK” MArio game? These are always great.
I’m glad they bumped up the challenge for this one. SMG was fun, but a bit easy.
i can’t believe the reviews this game is
getting. perfect scores at ign and gamespot? that has to be a first.
So you don’t agree with NOLA’s need for story in a Mario game?
I saw that. I thought it was kind of wierd.
I couldn’t stay interested in the first game, but this really makes me want the second!
Ooh, the draw takes place on my birthday.:)
Super Mario Galaxy was fantastic, so I am more than sure that Galaxy 2 will be just as wonderful!
Excellent review. Cant wait for Sunday.
Lock, loaded and preordered.
Sounds great, cant wait to hear the music in the game.
Everything I see about this game makes me want it more and more.
I hope to be playing this very soon. Are GSs opening at midnight?
Loved the first one, can’t wait for this.
Might have to pick this up.
Great review! I’ve been looking forward to this game since its announcement, being a big fan of the first one. Although the Wii has been a bit of a disappointment for me overall, SMG has been one of the few shining points for me, and is one of the sole reasons I have held on to my Wii (Zelda and Metroid being the others).
First one was pretty dece, so I’m glad this won’t be a disappointment.
Another “A”???? Very cool!
I can’t wait to get this game!
hoping this is as good as the first!
The first game was very satisfying, and this one looks even better!
Great. can’t wait to buy
This looks fantastic. One of the must-buys for anyone who owns a Wii and a reason to get the Wii if you don’t already own one.
Gonna be a great game.
It looks like almost every review of this game has been given a perfect score.
My Wii has been dormant for a LONG time, but this game may finally disrupt its slumber.
Having loved the first SMG, i’m definately gonna love this one.
It looks like this game will surpass SMG 1 in every way if that is even possible.This game is going to win GOTY I can tell already and I’m dying to play it!.
Awesome review, can’t wait.
Nice review, have the first one but can’t wait to play the second.
So excited for this!
I’m so excited to get SMG2. Finally they brought back Yoshi!!!
I cannot wait to fight that dragon. This review has me more excited than ever.
loved the first mario galaxy, hope this one blows my mind!
Great review looking forward to the game
I’m ready for this game!
Awesome review! I love how games like this remind me why I play them in the first place–to have FUN.
thanks for the contest, the promo for this game look cool
SMG was one of my favorite games of all time, really want to play the sequel.
Great review, can’t wait for this game.
This game looks amazing. I’m glad they made the game a bit tougher.
Everything I would expect from a new Mario game. Can’t wait.
Love the review! Liked the first one and hope to play this. I need a reason to get my Wii to come out of hibernation.
Hopefully the game is as good as the review states :3
The sequel truly is a treat to those who enjoyed the first one.
Great review as usual, and looking forward tot his game.
Wish I had the money to buy this game on release day! I’ll just have to wait until my B-Day in July to get it. I hope!
Thanks, great game looking forward to playing it!
Oh man I really want this game but I have moneys. The review was great could have more depth though
It’s amazing how Nintendo doesn’t take Mario’s popularity for granted and continues to improve and refine the forumula. Can’t say the same for Sega’s Sonic. 😛
Very good review…might rent it to check it out.
This game does look really sweet. Great review, I’ll be sure to at least give this a rental.
looks like a great addition to the mario series. great review.
Give me Yoshi now!!!!
This game looks spectacular!
I must have this game!
It’s nice to see Mario is still one of the top series for good, quality games.
Dang, I was almost hoping that this game wasn’t really good….I’m broke enough as it is 🙁
good review
I loved the first Mario Galaxy.
I loved te first Mario Galaxy and this one looks like a worthy successor.
This game looks sooooooo good, I hope to have it in my hands soon ;}
first game i preordered a game since zelda: wind waker when they offered the free Ocarina of time game.
The first was awesome. Can’t wait for the second one. 😀
Nice write-up! I never really warmed up to the first Galaxy, but I’m looking forward to spending some quality time with this one next week.
Great review!! Looks incredible and I am very excited to play it.
Great review. Can’t wait for this game.
Great review!! I’m looking forward to this game looks very polished.
I am so psyched for this game. I have no idea why for so many years Nintendo followed the policy of only one main Mario game per console.
Oh Mario, I just can’t quit you.
I’m actually pretty excited for this one, I hear it’s fairly difficult, and after breezing through the first game that will be quite welcome.
Great review. I can’t wait for this game!
I can’t believe the second one got rated even better than the first. I’m dieing to get it. Nice review.
Thanks for the review. Looks good.
This game looks fun. I can’t wait to play it.
good review. cant wait to buy this game(unless im the lucky winner). 😉
I loved the first one, I just hope that every time I play that I don’t have 99 lives by the end of my game session like in the first one lol.
Great review, and nice choice of screenshots. Those goombas are definitely on the juice!
Oh Mario, don’t ever change. 🙂
I might need to dust off my Wii for Mario.
Thinking about picking it up from Amazon. Love 3D Marios and this doesn’t look to disappoint.
I hope it’s as good as the first one!
Nice review. I like mario and I’ll be looking forward to playing this game. Hopefully winning it as well XD
I will be sure to get this!
Great review. Waiting for sunday
Nothing but the best from nintendo.
Wow, that looks great. The write makes me want this.
Great review!!!
Can’t wait for it! Great review.
Cant Wait for this to come out!
Gonna be a great game. Just hope a broke guy like me could win a free copy to play it… =)
I enjoyed the lessened challenge of the original. Looking forward to this one nonetheless.
That second screenshot is enticing.
Liked the review. Good to read that #2 is very much like the first. Why overhaul an already great thing?
Getting this right now. I’m in line for the midnight launch.
I loved the first, after reading your review and checking out those photos, it looks like I’ll love the second just as much if not more! Great job!
Great reviews all around. It is a must have game.
Wow, I guess all the skepticism was unwarranted. This looks great.
I’m seeing great reviews for this game! I want now!
Amazon cannot possibly ship this fast enough. Every review I read gets me even more excited.
I loved the first one, good to hear the second is up to par.
Game looks really good! Great review too!
The first one was amazing! I can’t wait until I have enough money to buy this.
Looks like a blast
Yeah the wife wants this one bad would be nice to win it. Great review and as always great contests.
So so excited. So few games define a system.
I’m so looking forward to this game!
The game I bought a wii for!
Looking like a fun romp. Can’t wait to play it.
SMG2 looks like a solid title. Nice review.
Finally a reason for me to play the Wii again.
Platforming at its finest!
Great review, one of the better ones for the game.
Great review. Look forward to owning this game.
I want to add this game to my collection. Great Review
Looks great! Awesome review.
Enter to win!
Looks like a fantastic game
Great review; I can’t wait to give this game a spin.
dragon monster looks awesome. can’t wait to see 64 throw back
I’m befuddled by how amazing all the reviews are… and here’s another one.
…Why haven’t I bought this game yet?!?
The first Mario galaxy was amazing! I’m hoping the sequel will be 2x better! (get it?)
I think it’s funny how some people bash how high this game’s scores are when they’ll probably never play it (and realize that they were wrong if they did). The first was great, this review of the second is great, and will hopefully buy it soon…
Wow. This game has been getting sick scores and looks amazing. Looks like it should have alot more variety than the first Galaxy. Definately will have to dust off the ol’ Wii for this one.
Wow, the game sounds FANTASTIC. I might actually want to pay full price for once.
Great review can’t wait to get my hands on this!
The game sounds great, as if that’s any surprise. I definitely want to pick this one up ASAP.
By and large, I would say that there are few reasons to own a Wii, but those few reasons are typically really, really good ones.
I didn’t play the first one, but this will eventually become one of my few wii games.
The game sounds awesome, can’t wait to play it…. even if I loe this contest.
it’s gonna reek of awesome
This games looks too sick! A must have!
Will be a good game.
This is looking to be one awesome game.
Can’t wait to play this! Haven’t been able to pick up a copy yet.
Great review. This one looks much better than the first, which I had trouble getting into.
Super Mario Galaxy is the last game I actually finished (although not beat 100%). SMG2 might be the first game in a long time I might have to buy at full price, although I’m looking to avoid that.
Great review. Looking forward to playing this even though I haven’t finished the first one.
Once again another awesome review for this game. I really, really can’t wait to get my hands on it.
I’m really happy to see all this praise for Super Mario Galaxy 2. I was beginning to think people had begun to post negative Nintendo reviews just out of spite.
I can’t wait to play this.
I like the Way Cloud Mario turns the game into a puzzler in a way.
Wow! Who would of thought you could improve upon perfection? Great review!
The first game was great with some minor flaws I think. Looks like this one is delivering strong again!
i loved the first one and the 2nd one is looking to be even better
I really feel like I should finish the first Galaxy now.
Great Review!
I bought the first game and I love it a lot! I can’t wait to play this game.
Good review! Two questions:
1) How is the replay value of this game? I 100% the first game, but I didn’t find it worth playing again after that.
2) Is there anything from the 1st game you wish was present in the 2nd?
Thanks!
Great review. Can’t wait for the game to come out 🙂
Nice, sounds great!
It looks wonderful and even more imaginative than the first game. Also glad for a difficulty spike.
Mario has a red jumpsuit
This game is going to be awesome! There are some nice additions that I would like to try out and fun with. Thanks!
Looks like I’ll be picking this up sometime soon. Nice to see Nintendo releasing another main Mario game this gen.
Sweet, this looks like so much fun.
Cannot WAIT to get this game. Sounds even better than the first. I really enjoyed the first but I wished it were more challenging. Now it looks like I may get my answer. 🙂
Awesome review for an awesome game. Oh and this contest rocks.
I can’t believe how awesome this game looks, I wasn’t sure if they could pull off a good sequal…but they did! Yay for great sequals! lol 😛
A game better than SMG? Wow. SMG is one of the best games of this generation.
Great game!
I really love this game. Can’t stop playing it.
Nice review. I’ve never played the first Super Mario Galaxy, but many have said that it was good. And by the looks of it, the second looks really good.
Looks great, can’t wait to use Yoshi.
I loved the first one. I will marry the second one.
Mario’s my absolute favourite 3D platforming game. They just have a lot of detail and charm, and it seems this is no different. Absolutely adored the first one.
Great review!
When the first Galaxy game came out, I wasn’t quite sure about the whole “small planets, shifting gravity” gimmick, but when I folded and bought the game, I was shocked by how amazing it was. Now I am practically giddy for anticipation for this second one!
Make it a trilogy, Nintendo! C’mon, you know you want to!
Good review, only makes me want it more.
Such an awesome game.
Good review.
Great review. Really look forward to playing this game!
i’m one of those fussiest players, so let’s see if ur right!
Ooh, increased challenge. I thought the first one was a tad bit easy, but still enjoyably fun.
Have a friend who just bought this and plan on playing it today but I’ve already heard amazing things!
I really enjoyed the new Super Mario Brothers. I’m hoping that this game can bring back some of that magic.
Having love the first game, I can’t wait for this one to arrive. Luckily I have a 3 day weekend coming up. ; )
This is on my list.
I have to admit, despite not being a Mario fan, I do at least want to try this one. If it improves on Galaxy as you say, it could be a winner.
Love Mario! This game looks like a nice change from the rest of the stuff out there.
I can’t wait to try this game!
I’d love to get this game for free!
Great! The trailers and screenshots look amazing. The game will be great, for sure!
Great review, also a fantastic game!
Surprisingly the sequel tops the original…
Can it really be as good as everyone says? This is one game I will definitely have to play.
Looks like a great game. Can’t wait to get it.
Was a little underwhelmed by the original game, but based on this review I might have to give the sequel a chance.
Sounds like an amazing game can’t wait.
Solid review. I love how Nintendo can keep the franchise fresh after all these years.
Great review! Can’t wait to play it.
Very nice review. Its amazing how Nintendo keeps churning one great Mario game after another. Something Sega team has to learn when making Sonic games.
Awesome review…can’t wait.
This looks amazing. Brilliant review!
Awesome review, I loved the first SMG, but this definitely tops the first one.
Looks awesome! I’ll bet it’s better than part 1 which was amazing!
Why cant every wii game be this good? Mario you have once again stolen all of my time and money.
Can’t wait to get the game. To bad I let my sister/nephew borrow my Wii. Forgot all about SMG2 coming out.
Great review!
Very well rounded review. Enjoyed the first one alot, and really looking forward to playing this one.
So glad they brought back Giant World. My favorite from SMB3 ever. I wouldn’t mind seeing some RPG throwbacks though. Is it too much to ask for a Nimbus world??
Would make a great gift for Mario fans.
I was interested before, after reading the review I can’t wait to pick this up!
it is a good game but could have been better
Dang I’m really interested in this game now. I might even regret buying RDR over this………..
This review made my brother go out and buy this today. So addicting. Hope I win this contest so I can have my own copy to play.
Looks fantastic! I would love to get my hands on a copy!
Great review! I still need to finish first one though…
Can’t wait to get my hands on this!
who won?
Great Review
Great review!
Good details in the review, definitely one of the must have Wii games.
I dont usually play wii but I could get into this one! Great Review.
This is a great review. As a fan of the first super mario galaxy when i heard about the second one i was anxious to buy it but the trailers made it look too much like the second one, and although i have read many reviews i think this one has a good basis of how the game is. It’s not to rough on it but, doesn’t have that fan loving feel to it and, i would reccomend it to anyone who wants to know about this game