Super Mario is back!

One can say it many times and in many ways, but the truth remains the same: you should own Super Mario Galaxy.

This game sets the standard for presentation values on Wii. After playing Galaxy, it will quickly become apparent how little effort many developers have put into tapping the power of the console. This is a game that simply could not be pulled off on GameCube; any excuses that the Wii can’t handle ‘next-gen graphics’ should be disregarded entirely. At the same time, Galaxy proves that graphics alone cannot make a beautiful game; only through the seamless mixture of visuals, music and interactivity can a game become truly memorable. Mario’s latest adventure succeeds in all of these ways, and thereby earns The Wiire’s Eye Candy and Audio awards.

This game sets the standard for platformers and game variety. Exploring the game’s 30 galaxies is just as magical, if not more so, than traversing Princess Peach’s castle for the first time in Super Mario 64. Transforming a whole universe into one’s virtual playground is a significant step forward for the genre, one that Mario pulls off elegantly. Just when you think the game couldn’t output more awe-inducing moments, it proves you terribly mistaken. Running, jumping, swinging, collecting, surfing, balancing, spinning, flying, floating - if you can think it, chances are this game has it. Even more impressive is how the developers combined these elements so sensibly; all of the actions feel perfectly integrated with the world. For this, the game earns The Wiire’s Innovative Design award.

This game sets the standard for family interaction. Allowing a second player to control the star pointer as a means of easing them into the gameplay, or just to allow another person to share in the experience, works brilliantly. It would have been nice if players could switch back and forth in their roles without having to physically exchange controllers, but it’s still a fun mechanic that brings people together. For this, the game earns The Wiire’s Family Fun award.

The most dedicated players will still see nearly 20-30 hours of their lives lost if they pursue every star and secret. Other gamers may take weeks, playing in small bursts and cherishing every moment. The game easily accommodates any schedule and play style. When it’s done, many find themselves starting over - the game is that alluring. For this, Super Mario Galaxy earns The Wiire’s Infinite Replay award.

Super Mario Galaxy earns The Wiire’s Editor’s Choice award because it is why you bought a Wii; if you don’t own the console, this game is one of the best reasons to board the bandwagon. Do service to yourself, and to the extremely talented developers at Nintendo’s Tokyo studio, by letting Mario take you on a trip you won’t soon forget.

Original URL: http://www.thewiire.com/review/3/3/Super_Mario_Galaxy