Super Mario Galaxy 2

Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a 2010 platform video game developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii. It is the direct sequel to Super Mario Galaxy (2007) and the thirteenth mainline entry in the Super Mario series. Building upon the revolutionary spherical gravity mechanics of its predecessor, Super Mario Galaxy 2 refines and expands the formula with new power-ups, the introduction of Yoshi as a fully playable companion, and even more imaginative galaxy designs. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest 3D platformers ever made and frequently ranks among the best games in the Mario franchise for its creativity, level design, and pure sense of wonder.

The story once again sends Mario into outer space after Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach and steals the Grand Stars to build his own galactic empire. Mario teams up with Rosalina and a new crew of Lumas aboard the Starship Mario — a living spaceship that serves as the game’s central hub. Together they travel across more than 50 unique galaxies, collecting over 240 Power Stars to confront Bowser at the center of the universe. Along the way, players meet familiar allies and discover heartfelt moments involving the Lumas, while the narrative maintains the same whimsical, family-friendly tone as the original.

Gameplay

Super Mario Galaxy 2 retains the core gravity-based platforming that lets Mario run across the surfaces of entire planets, walls, and ceilings. Levels are grouped into galaxies with wildly varied themes — from lush beaches and towering mountains to fiery volcanoes and cosmic puzzles. Mario’s moveset is expanded with tighter controls, new spin attacks, and the ability to ride Yoshi for the first time in a 3D Mario game.

Yoshi introduces entirely new gameplay layers:

• He can eat enemies and objects to gain special abilities via fruits: Dash Pepper for super speed, Blimp Fruit for floating, and Bulb Berry to reveal hidden platforms.
• Players can fling Yoshi to reach distant areas or use his tongue to grab items and pull switches.

New power-ups include:

• Cloud Flower — creates temporary cloud platforms for climbing and crossing gaps.
• Rock Mushroom — turns Mario into a rolling rock ball that smashes enemies and breaks obstacles.

Returning favorites like the Bee Mushroom, Fire Flower, and Spring Mushroom make appearances, alongside classic items such as Launch Stars and Sling Stars. The game features a mix of standard Power Star missions, hidden comet challenges, boss battles, and speed-run stages. A second player can join in co-op mode as a Luma, using the Wii Remote pointer to collect Star Bits, stun enemies, and help Mario jump higher. After completing the main story, players unlock Luigi as a playable character with slightly different physics, plus a secret “World S” galaxy for expert challenges.

Development and Legacy

Following the massive success of the first Super Mario Galaxy, Nintendo EAD Tokyo (led by director Yoshiaki Koizumi and producer Shigeru Miyamoto) began work on the sequel shortly after its release. Development lasted roughly two and a half years, with the team focusing on refining the gravity system, adding deeper level variety, and fully integrating Yoshi without compromising the original’s magic. The soundtrack, composed by Mahito Yokota, Koji Kondo, and others, once again features a full orchestra and is considered one of gaming’s most joyful and memorable scores.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 launched to universal critical acclaim and strong sales. It is often praised for improving upon nearly every aspect of the first game while introducing fresh ideas that still feel innovative today. In 2025, both Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 received enhanced re-releases as a single collection on Nintendo Switch (and later with a free 4K update for Nintendo Switch 2), featuring 1080p resolution, improved UI, an assist mode, and a new storybook. The games remain benchmarks for creative platforming and continue to inspire modern titles like Astro Bot and Super Mario Odyssey.

Key Features:

• Gravity-Defying Platforming — Run on planets, walls, and ceilings in over 50 beautifully designed galaxies.
• Yoshi Companion — Ride and control Yoshi with unique fruit-powered abilities for new ways to explore and fight.
• Fresh Power-Ups — Cloud Flower, Rock Mushroom, and returning classics that transform gameplay.
• Epic Scale & Variety — From serene cosmic beaches to chaotic boss arenas and hidden expert challenges.
• Co-op Fun — Second-player Luma assistance for family play.
• High Replayability — 240+ Power Stars, Luigi mode, secret worlds, and comet challenges.

Release Platforms:

• Wii — North America: May 23, 2010; Japan: May 27, 2010; Europe: June 11, 2010; Australia: July 1, 2010
• Nintendo Switch — October 2, 2025 (enhanced collection Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2)