Review: Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Nintendo Switch 2)
Super Mario Galaxy needs no introduction. Wait, that doesn’t work for the purpose of this review. While Super Mario Galaxy doesn’t need an introduction, it’s one of those games so beloved that it deserves one. It’s just that special.
It’s hard to believe that Super Mario Galaxy is only the third 3D outing for Mario. Super Mario 64 took Mario to the next dimension (literally). This was followed by the underrated Super Mario Sunshine for the Nintendo GameCube. Launched on the Wii in 2007, Super Mario Galaxy took our moustachioed hero to soaring new heights. This time, Mario’s adventure spreads across the entire universe, visiting all sorts of colorful and imaginative galaxies.
This space-based idea allowed the developers to introduce some of the most creative platforming designs in Mario’s history. In fact, the developers had so many ideas leftover they were able to create an equally impressive sequel in just three short years, with Super Mario Galaxy 2 launching in 2010.
Now, this pair of classic 3D-platforming adventures comes to the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. It begs the question; why, in 2025, should we care about playing Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 again? It’s tricky to answer. While not everyone will think this is a great use of funds, there’s no denying these are fantastic games that now look nothing short of incredible.
It might have initially seemed left-field when Nintendo announced these repackaged titles during a Nintendo Direct. While many fans were hoping for a brand-new adventure for Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, and the crew, tapping into our collective nostalgia also makes sense, especially with a Galaxy-themed movie in the works. A wise person recently told me it’s OK to want to see a better version of something you already own, like when we upgrade plain-old DVDs to Blu-Ray or 4K versions.
Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 fall squarely into this category. These are brilliant games that truly deserve this special treatment. If you’re familiar with them at all, you’ll already know they looked beautiful even back in 2007 and 2010. In 2025, this pair of revamped Galaxy outings has been fully enhanced, upgrading their status from beautiful to stunning. Everything here looks fresh, crisp, colorful, and bright.
The platforming speaks for itself. Again, these being older games, we know how things work. Mario is chasing Bowser across the universe, discovering Power Stars along the way. Playing them again—particularly the sequel given it hasn’t been re-released before—is an absolute treat. I wasn’t being facetious earlier when I mentioned creative platforming. The ideas within Super Mario Galaxy and its successor are some of the best ever.
The curvature of the planets is a stand-out feature, even today. We’re used to Mario running left and right in 2D environments. In his 3D outings, he can also move toward or away from the screen, but it still feels flat, somehow. Super Mario Galaxy introduces a brand-new way to navigate the world, allowing Mario to walk all around spherical shapes—even upside down! It’s brilliant in its execution, creating something innovative that allows the developers to play with the environment in fun ways. Leaping between smaller spheres feels natural, while drilling through planets to find buried treasure is super satisfying. Who knew there was more to 3D platforming?
A Mario game wouldn’t be possible without new power-ups, and this pair of games delivers some of the most creative costumes Mario has ever donned (short of Cappy’s abilities in Super Mario Odyssey). Cloud Mario allows Mario to create cloud platforms. Bee Mario can float for a limited time (and looks super cute). There are also Rock Mushrooms, Boo Mushrooms, and Spring Mushrooms to play with. Even Yoshi has special edible items that grant enhanced powers.
Yes, Yoshi makes an appearance in Super Mario Galaxy 2, bringing his bottomless-pit-of-a-stomach with him. In fact, it’s one of several updates that help differentiate the sequel. Super Mario Galaxy 2, rather than being a rerun of the original, is laid out quite differently. This time, you steer a Mario-shaped spaceship on your cruise through space, navigating a very clear world map. As a player who loves this kind of clarity when working through levels, including branching pathways and clear collectibles, this is perfect.
The graphics aren’t the only difference in this enhanced edition. A new Assist Mode has also been added, giving players extra health and the ability to float back from falling off platforms. This mode can be toggled on and off, allowing you to play your own way. It adds an accessibility feature for younger players or those simply looking for a simpler way to play. It’s not that these games are especially hard, but they’re also not super easy. Some levels, especially a few of the creative boss fights, verge on being quite tricky. I’m always a fan of providing more ways to play.
The controls also need mentioning considering these were originally Wii games. What that means is that the Wii relied on motion controls and pointing at the screen. When games like this are ported, it reminds me why the Joy-Cons are really an evolution of the Wiimote. While you can play these enhanced Galaxy outings with a Pro Controller, I found it much easier with the Joy-Cons, especially when riding Yoshi. Mario’s Spin move also feels more natural with a swish of the Joy-Con as opposed to pressing the Y button. Collecting star bits is also quicker and easier. Handheld mode also works well for those star bits; simply touch the screen to collect them.
Overall, Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 are still out of this world. We might not have a new 3D Mario just yet, but this pair of classic adventures—revamped to look simply stunning—are a reminder of why we love the series in the first place. For existing fans, the temptation to replay in this enhanced form is strong. For new players, this is a must-own title. We all know Mario will be back with something fresh eventually. Until then, enjoy this interstellar ride.
