Super Mario Galaxy 2
Nintendo
Rated E
It’s not hard to imagine that when a franchise has been around as long as Mario has, the amount of hype and anticipation that can be generated by the release of a new game in the series. Following hot on the heels of the critically acclaimed New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Super Mario Galaxy 2 once again pits the heroic plumber against his nemesis Bowser, still supersized from the last game, this time taking their feud to the deepest reaches of space.
When one thinks of Mario, a couple things come to mind. First is the commitment on display by Nintendo to put out the best possible game they can for their proverbial star. The other would have to be the amount of creativity and variety packed into every grand adventure. By now it’s a given that Mario is the king of console games.
Last year’s New Super Mario Bros. Wii was a prime example of what a Mario game should be; a fun throwback to what makes video games so enjoyable. However, to many hardcore gamers, that was all it amounted to, a throwback. While the game increased focus was on the use of the wii-mote, aside from the updated graphics, many could say that they had been there, done that. For their next installment, Nintendo decided to go about a different route, instead giving gamers a sequel to the vastly different Super Mario Galaxy.
Super Mario Galaxy was a departure from the typical Mario game in that, it revamped the entire franchise from the ground up. Gone was the side scrolling adventure, as the familiar confines of the Mushroom Kingdom gave way to an entire Galaxy for Mario to explore. Gamers were treated to free-roaming 3D environments that still retained the distinct style that made Mario unique. Needless to say, even the most jaded of gamers was forced to stand up and take notice.
The game opens with Mushroom Kingdom once again under siege by Bowser, who also once again, kidnaps the Princess. From there, players are blasted into the galaxy, where they are introduced to the new control scheme, using the wii-mote and the nunchuk to guide Mario through each level. The controls are vastly different from those in New Super Mario Bros. Wii and are most likely going to catch a few people by surprise. While they’re easy enough to master, one can’t help but prefer the former’s controls.
Visually, it should come as no surprise that this game is stunning. The landscapes are picturesque and a wonder to behold. The 3D landscape is certainly a step above the usual 2D world Mario has been known to inhabit. At the very least, one can say this is the best looking Mario game in the series storied history.
The inclusion of Yoshi also brings new powers that can take a minute to get used to. Mario himself also receives new power-ups to assist him on his quest. Naturally, these are reflected by the environment to which he is exploring. Of course, Yoshi retains his usual abilities to hover in the air and tongue lash opponents, though this time the player must aim the wii-mote at his target. Levels requiring Yoshi are scattered throughout but for the most part, Mario takes on certain galaxies unassisted.
For players struggling to complete levels, there are a number a number of aids available. If you find yourself dying too many times, Rosalina, a character introduced in the original Super Mario Galaxy, will offer to play through the level for you. The downside is that the star you are required to collect is downgraded from gold to bronze. Players can also invite their friends to join in as Luigi if co-op makes for a more enjoyable experience.
Ultimately, Super Mario Galaxy 2 stands as a testament to what makes the franchise great. Every year, more and more titles are released, challenging Mario for the crown of gaming, and Nintendo manages to step up to the challenge every time. Super Mario Galaxy 2 exceeds all expectations, flawlessly incorporating the new controls of the wii with fantastic environments that will wow even the most experienced of gamers. The Mario franchise is the most well known and universally recognized. There is so much to explore that gamers will find themselves losing track of time for weeks on end. Consider this title among the franchise’s best.
Super Mario Galaxy 2 - A
No comments:
Post a Comment