Nintendo today released another Wii-exclusive Mario title, Super Mario Galaxy 2. As in the first one, players will control Mario as he hops from planet to planet in a tiny galaxy of strange worlds in an attempt to rescue Peach from Bowser’s treacherous claws. Lots of new features add more variety to the already fun gameplay of the first one.
First, and most notably is the addition of Yoshi. Mario will be able to team up with his popular dinosaur friend as they collect power stars in certain levels. Luigi will also be a playable character in later levels.
In addition, there are three new Mario power-ups: Rock Mario can smash certain obstacles, Cloud Mario can create cloud platforms on which to climb, and Drill Mario can tunnel to the opposite side of one of a planet. In addition to eating enemies, and swinging from his tongue, Yoshi can also gain new powers by eating special Fruit: Pepper Yoshi moves quickly and erratically, while Blimp Yoshi can float.
As in the first game, players will be able to unlock additional, more challenging levels which take place after the rescue—this time by grabbing Comet Medals.
Finally, the two-player mode has been enhanced with additional ways for the second player to interact with the world.
Icrontic Viewpoint
Ryan Wilsey: I’m really looking forward to seeing what the Mario team has done with Mario Galaxy 2. Having played most (if not all) of the core Mario games, it has been a real treat to see the evolution of the most well-known Brooklyn plumber. The new direction they took the Mario franchise in Mario Galaxy was quite welcome—it was new enough to be interesting, yet familiar enough to keep fans happy. I’m hoping the sequel won’t just be “more of the same”, but instead takes the aspects that worked before and really tries to build upon them. One thing that DID pique my interest was that they were bringing back some classic levels from Super Mario 64. While it may be a bit of a nostalgia gimmick, I actually like the tribute they’ve made for fans to enjoy.
Brian Ambrozy: Nintendo continues to push the envelope with the same property. Even though it seems like it would be difficult to create something new using the same tried-and-true characters, basic mechanic, and conventions, Nintendo comes through yet again. Every time I play a new Mario game, I am shocked to find that it feels fresh and new. Even better, it remains comfortingly familiar because of the characters and scenarios I’ve grown up with.
CB Droege: While the Galaxy series may not be for everyone, and the 2D Mario games will always excite me more than the 3D ones, I’m looking forward to another Super Mario Galaxy game. When I heard that Yoshi would be a part of this game, I cheered, as he’s my second favorite Mario character (Waluigi doesn’t get nearly enough screen time). There is something very satisfying about eating goombas.
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