Nintendo was built upon the shoulders of the franchises like the lovable plumber Mario.  This time around, Mario has to save the day by conquering mini-missions amidst a colorful galaxy of obstacles and baddies to ultimately save "Princess Peach" from the evil clutches of the nefarious "Bowser" - who resembles a Gamorean Guard from "Return of the Jedi."

So I was in my local game store to trade in some Wii games that we no longer play.  Since my step kids mentioned Mario, I asked the sales guy, "Which Mario game is the best for Wii?" He promptly suggested Super Mario Galaxy.  Looking at the back of the game's case, I started reminiscing about the old days of playing the very first Mario game.  I bought my used copy for $30.  Games that have little replay value (once beaten) are better purchased used anyway.

Boy, this Mario guy sure has progressed over the years.  Plain ol' running, jumping and pouncing in a two-dimensional setting have been augmented by spinning, wall-jumping, super pouncing, swimming, climbing, flying and swinging on vines - all in a three dimensional world.  This game is so full of vivid colors and wonderfully animated graphics that it's sure to delight any younger gamer.  While the Mario series has always been aimed at the younger demographic, older gamers have loved the endearing series because of its fun gaming factor.  It's not just a "run n' shoot" kind of game.  There are strategies involved and you really have to time your moves and solve problems.  I mean, other than kids and dedicated Mario fans, this game is sure to trip out the medically altered.  Did I say that out loud?

What I Like:  It's really a fun ride and the story can draw you in.  Sort of like one part old school Mario mixed with a pinch of newer franchises like Sonic.

What I'm On the Fence About: The use of the nunchuk's joystick for Mario's movement is not as precise as it could be.  I died a few times because I accidentally walked of an edge of something.  Mario's in space, yet doesn't need a space suit or breathing apparatus?  Can you see some potential student trying to become an astronaut... "But Mario never needed a space suit."  I mean, what kind of message is this game sending to the kids? (snicker)

What I Don't Like:  The fact that players are FORCED to read through laborious cut scenes.  When a player creates his or her character and starts the game (six maximum), sitting through all of that narrative stuff can be torture.  The other thing that can be annoying to some is that a lot of time is spent upside down and sideways.  People have complained that it makes them disoriented and anxious - like my wife.

Graphics:  Super colorful and super Japanese (in a good way).  While the graphics are luscious to look at, they pale in comparison to the definition on other consoles.  Meaning, if and when Nintendo makes a higher resolution console, the graphics will probably be mind-bending.  I attribute this to the amount of data space on each game disc required for the physical interaction.

Game Play: Super fun as you are immersed in a wacky universe filled with puzzles, problems to solve, odd terrain to navigate, moves to learn, stuff to collect, monster to beat - all in a quest to save a princess.  I like that getting from star to star or to the different galaxies is accomplished with shooting stars and transporters.  Hopping back and forth to the different places (in order to find everything) reminds me a bit of Ratchet & Clank.

Controls:  The Wii-Mote and Nunchuk are used.  The nunchuk's joystick controls movement while the Wii-Mote controls the game's settings, jumping and shooting.  Shaking either the nunchuk or the Wii-Mote controls spinning.  It's straight forward enough and once you start the game, it teaches you the moves and adds more as you progress.

Music:  Again, geared more for the kids but it's not as annoying as it could have been for adults.  It's really there to encourage the player and enhance the world you're playing in.

Sound Effects: More toward the cartoon feel, but nothing annoying.

Replay Value:  I can honestly say that my family has enjoyed playing this game and still reaches for it from time to time.  Once the game has been beaten, though, there's little incentive to play it any longer.  I wish there was a multiplayer mode or head to head challenges - even an online game would be nice.

Look for Super Mario Galaxy 2 to be released soon.


Please check out my other Wii-related reviews:

Nintendo Wii Console System

GAMES:

Wii Fit

Wii Sports

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Pinball Hall of Fame for Wii

Showtime Championshop Boxing

Wii Sports Resort

Game Party

Jeep Thrills


ACCESSORIES:

Nintendo Wii-Mote

Nintendo Nunchuk Controller

Racing Wheel for Wii

Generic Wii Fit Balance Board Rechargeable Battery Pack

Silicone Cover for Wii Balance Board

Recommended: Yes