It’s hard to believe Mario’s first intergalactic adventure was nearly a decade ago. On November 1st of 2007, Wii owners finally got a chance to play Mario’s 3rd 3D Endeavour. Despite Nintendo sticking to roughly the same plot we’ve become accustomed to, the gameplay was so innovative it created a similar impact than that of Super Mario 64, nearly 10 years before it. And here we are, 10 years after the release of Super Mario Galaxy, with the imminent release of Super Mario Odyssey. Coincidence? I think not.
Super Mario Galaxy introduced a plethora of new mechanics, enemies and characters that have now become staples of the core games; Rosalina being the most notable addition. She even found her way into Mario Kart and Smash Bros (Still no sign of Waluigi, we can only pray). Creative planet-hopping gameplay created a unique sense of adventure and exploration. The story also took players off to a vast array of new and varied locations, each feeling distinct from the last. Borrowing the idea of having multiple objectives to complete in each area from Mario 64, greatly increased both the playtime and enjoyment of each galaxy. One of my own personal favourite elements of the game however, was the phenomenal soundtrack that accompanied your adventure by Mahito Yokota and Koji Kondo. With soothing aquatic melodies and epic orchestral anthems, such as the highly acclaimed Gusty Garden Galaxy, this game offered up a musical feast like no Mario title before.
Building upon the solid 3D platforming roots of Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine, Galaxy showed the full potential of the Wii at the time. From the literal gravity-defying physics, to the new power-ups and locations; Super Mario Galaxy appealed to fans old and new, as well as the critics. The game is still currently holding an impressive 97 on Metacritic, and had nothing but praise during its launch. Mario also gained another 5 Game of The Year awards under his belt in 2007 from renowned review outlets. The game was so successful in fact, the sequel was announced just 2 years later, which once again was a huge triumph, but that’s a story for another day...
