Super Mario Galaxy 2 – Review

Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a recent addition to our collection of Switch games. We had Mario Galaxy 1 from the Super Mario 3D-Allstars collection so when they released Galaxy 2 for the switch we just had to get it. We played it and loved it just as much as the first, in my review you’ll find out why!

Why Super Mario Galaxy 2?

Super Mario Galaxy 2 takes everything that made the first Super Mario Galaxy a masterpiece and launches it even higher into the stars. Released for the Wii in 2010, this sequel refines nearly every aspect of the original — delivering tighter level design, new power-ups, and even more creativity in every galaxy.

The plot keeps things simple and lighthearted. Once again, Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach, this time after transforming into a massive, galaxy-sized version of himself. Mario sets off on a cosmic rescue mission aboard Starship Mario — a spaceship shaped like his own head — with the help of a friendly Luma named Lubba. While the story doesn’t aim for emotional depth like the first game, it sets a fun and cheerful tone right from the start.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 is pure, polished platforming perfection. The gravity-defying gameplay returns, but this time, the level design feels even more focused and inventive. Each galaxy introduces new mechanics and ideas, and then swaps them out before they overstay their welcome.
One of the biggest new additions is Yoshi, who joins Mario on many levels. Yoshi can eat enemies, flutter-jump, and use power fruits that give him special abilities — like the Dash Pepper for bursts of speed or the Blimp Fruit for floating through the air.
There are also new Mario power-ups, such as the Rock Mushroom (which lets Mario roll and smash through obstacles) and the Cloud Flower (which allows him to create temporary cloud platforms). These add fun layers of strategy and exploration to the platforming mix.

Visually, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is stunning — even by today’s standards. The galaxies are brighter, bolder, and more colorful than before, showing that the Wii still had plenty of creative power. Each level feels alive, from lava-filled planets to whimsical sky gardens.
The soundtrack is another triumph. It’s full of sweeping orchestral pieces and cheerful tunes that perfectly match each galaxy’s personality. The music gives the game a sense of scale and energy that feels grand yet playful.

With 120 Power Stars (and a few more surprises for completionists), Super Mario Galaxy 2 offers plenty to do. The levels are packed with secrets, hidden paths, and bonus challenges that make replaying a joy rather than a chore. The game’s world map system also makes it easier to jump between galaxies and retry favorite levels.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 2-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

Brilliant, varied level design.

Yoshi adds tons of fun and depth.

Beautiful visuals and amazing orchestral soundtrack.

Refined controls and smoother pacing than the original.

Tons of replay value.

Cons

Story is simpler and less emotional than the first game.

Some stages can be quite challenging for beginners.

Limited camera control in certain areas.

Summary

Super Mario Galaxy 2 isn’t just a worthy sequel — it’s a platforming masterpiece that stands among the best in the Mario series. It takes the foundation of the first game and builds something even more varied, polished, and fun. Every moment feels like it was designed to make players smile.

Overall, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is an absolute joy from start to finish — a shining example of how a sequel can improve on greatness and still feel fresh, exciting, and full of wonder.