Prepare for a celestial journey, Nintendo fans! Two of Super Mario`s most acclaimed adventures, Super Mario Galaxy and its equally stellar sequel, Super Mario Galaxy 2, are officially making their grand return to modern hardware. After years of fervent requests, the beloved Wii-era classics are being re-released as a unified collection for the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, with preorders now officially live.
The Return of Cosmic Masterpieces
It`s a moment many have anticipated. While the first Super Mario Galaxy briefly graced the Switch as part of the limited-time Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection – a release strategy that left many players in the cold, given its eventual removal from sale – this marks the inaugural appearance of Super Mario Galaxy 2 on contemporary Nintendo consoles. This collection isn`t merely a re-release; it`s an opportunity for a new generation to experience the gravity-defying platforming and imaginative level design that cemented these games as pinnacles of the genre, all while allowing veterans to revisit them with renewed visual fidelity.
Slated for launch on October 2, this digital and physical collection is priced at a rather reasonable $70. For context, purchasing both titles individually via the eShop would set you back $80, making the collection a modest, almost charitable, “cosmic bargain” from Nintendo.
The Super Mario Galaxy collection brings two iconic titles to a new era of gaming, complete with new Amiibo figures.
Enhanced for a New Generation (and the Next!)
Nintendo isn`t just porting these classics; they`re thoughtfully enhancing them. The collection boasts significant performance improvements, particularly for those looking to upgrade to the rumored-but-now-confirmed-ish Switch 2. Current Switch owners will enjoy the games in crisp 1080p in docked mode, a notable upgrade from their Wii origins and a welcome boost for any modern display.
However, the real star of the show for future-proofed gamers is the promised 4K resolution on Switch 2. This free upgrade, available at launch for both physical and digital purchasers, ensures that the breathtaking visuals of the Comet Observatory and its myriad galaxies will shine with unprecedented clarity. Whether you prefer the nostalgic waggling of motion controls, reminiscent of the Wii experience, or the precision of conventional button and stick input, both options are fully supported, ensuring every player finds their preferred way to navigate the cosmos.
Additionally, keeping accessibility in mind, Nintendo has integrated an Assist Mode. This thoughtful inclusion aims to make these occasionally challenging platformers more approachable for newcomers and younger players, ensuring that the wonder and joy of the Galaxy games are open to everyone.
Beyond the Stars: Lore, Cinema, and Collectibles
This collection isn`t a standalone event; it`s a pivotal part of a broader Super Mario universe expansion, coinciding with Super Mario`s 40th Anniversary celebrations. Nintendo is clearly keen on integrating its beloved characters across various media, and the Galaxy saga is at the forefront of this ambitious strategy.
Rosalina`s Storybook Expands
Fans of Super Mario Galaxy will fondly recall the poignant tale of Rosalina, narrated through her enchanting storybook. This collection will feature new chapters for Rosalina`s Storybook within the games, expanding on the lore of this fan-favorite character. For those who wish to delve even deeper, a physical hardcover edition of Rosalina`s Storybook, published by Dark Horse, is set to release on November 25 for $25. It will include full-color illustrations, offering a tangible piece of this beloved character`s history, though it`s worth noting it will exclude the new in-game pages, creating a curious narrative split for the most dedicated loremasters.
The Silver Screen and Shelf Appeal
Adding another layer to this cosmic synergy, the re-release cleverly precedes the highly anticipated Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which is slated to premiere next April. This strategic timing introduces these stellar adventures to a new audience just before they experience Mario`s next cinematic endeavor. To further fuel the hype, Nintendo is also releasing two new Amiibo figures: one featuring Mario, and another showcasing Rosalina alongside her faithful companion Luma. These highly collectible figures, though priced at an estimated $30 each and launching separately on April 2, 2026 (a full year after the movie!), promise to be coveted items for collectors and fans alike.
Secure Your Starcatcher
With preorders now live at major retailers, aspiring space travelers are encouraged to secure their copy sooner rather than later. Nintendo has, at times, demonstrated a penchant for managing scarcity, and a collection of this magnitude, especially one including a long-awaited port like Super Mario Galaxy 2, is unlikely to linger on shelves indefinitely. Don`t miss your chance to embark on these unforgettable quests, soaring through vibrant galaxies to rescue Princess Peach and save the universe.
The Super Mario Galaxy collection offers more than just games; it`s a celebration of Nintendo`s enduring legacy, a gateway to a visually stunning universe for new players, and a nostalgic, upgraded journey for long-time fans. It`s time to dust off your Joy-Cons (or prepare your traditional controllers) and get ready to shout “It`s-a me, Mario!” once again, under a sky full of stars.
