Reviewing Super Mario Galaxy, in a way, is entirely unnecessary. For most, it's the only reason to own a Wii and purchasing it is required to validate having bought one in the first place. It's difficult to argue against the fact that the game is practically the only worthwhile title for Nintendo's system, joined by Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, Power Pros, and Super Paper Mario in a lackluster library. Unsurprisingly, Super Mario Galaxy delivers a stellar experience that finally justifies owning a Wii.
Surprise! Bowser has once again kidnapped Princess Peach and it's up to you, playing as Mario, to rescue her. At some point during the incoherent introduction, Mario gains the ability to fly across the expanse of space to reach galaxies containing grand stars powering Bowser's war machine. Only by tracking down all of the grand stars and powering up a special space ship can the princess be found.
Lo and behold, our princess is in another galaxy--over a hundred grand stars are up from grabs in over three dozen different galaxies. Super Mario Galaxy shares much in common with Super Mario Sunshine and Super Mario 64 in terms of structure. Grand stars are earned by completing a variety of objectives tied to levels. Six observatories provide watch over a number of galaxies, which each encase several grand stars. When you first enter a galaxy, only one grand star objective appears; however, get the grand star and you open up a new objective by returning to the galaxy. New galaxies are unlocked according to the number of grand stars you possess. It's possible to confront Bowser and beat the game without finding all of the game's stars, although the lengthy hunt to find them all is the best part of the game.
Tracking down grand stars involves a mix of traditional platform-jumping, some action, and unique use of motion-controls. Mario makes his way across the void of space by using stars activated with a shake of the Wii Remote. Other uses of motion-controls include the picking up star bits by moving a cursor on-screen. Simultaneously a form of in-game currency and weapon, star bits can be spent to unlock new levels and shot with a press of B to stun enemies.
The range of activities involved in finding grand stars is impressive. From tricky jumping sequences to collecting coins to massive boss battles, there's a bit of everything thrown into Super Mario Galaxy. New forms for Mario--bee suit, boo suit--introduce wildly innovative mechanics into the mix, while a reprise of Mario's fireball suit provides a classic tinge to gameplay. Although outmoded elements occasionally appear to drag the energy down a bit, creative levels twist platform conventions into interesting challenges that feel fresh. There's a good range from those that hone in on Mario's various forms to more traditional platform-hopping stages; however, new gravity-based space levels are of particular interest.
Mario's exploration of the heavenly bodies comes with a new-found ability to circumnavigate spherical planets and walk on walls. Gravity keeps the plumber rooted on all kinds of celestial bodies, opening a wide range of platform possibilities. Running underneath platforms and planets is common, as is traveling into a planet to run about its spherical interior. The ability to walk on virtually any surfaces creates an issue with the position of the camera and controls. Walking around a planet often feels awkward due to an ill-positioned camera. Tapping the C button shifts the view behind Mario, but it isn't always available.
Odd camera angles do more than instill awkwardness into the levels; they also raise the level of difficulty. Simple actions such as jumping on a goomba are surprisingly difficult when traversing the spherical surface of a miniature planet. Enemies sometimes appear from seemingly out of nowhere, items are hard to locate, and the controls frequently invert when running upside or on walls. Getting used to the constantly shifting perspective is the game's greatest challenge. The levels themselves never seem difficult--in fact, it's always apparent what needs to be done--but the funky camera transforms simple sequences into awkward tasks.
It's worth noting that the complexity of controlling the camera could be a barrier for a young player. Without being able to work around its flaws, it can be hard to progress through the game alone. Fortunately, a two-player cooperative mode saves the day. Using a second Wii Remote, another player can join in to help collect star bits and shoot enemies with them. This is perfectly suited for family play, especially if you intend on including a child. The controls are incredibly simple--simply move the cursor by waving the Wii Remote. It's an inventive spin on the main game that makes a decent effort to broaden the traditionally single player platform experience, even if it isn't all that exciting.
