5 Things Super Mario Galaxy + Galaxy 2 Remaster Reminded Us About Peak Nintendo

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When Super Mario Galaxy and its sequel launched on the Wii, they revolutionized 3D platforming and represented some of Nintendo’s finest work. Nintendo was consistently releasing blockbuster games at the time, and these titles perfectly highlighted the company’s strengths. The recent Super Mario Galaxy + Galaxy 2 Remaster has reminded everyone just how good these games were. They haven’t aged a bit—they’re a shining example of Nintendo’s design principles and a level of quality very few game developers can achieve. Playing these games again isn’t just about feeling nostalgic; it’s a reminder of why Nintendo is considered one of the best in the industry.

I honestly think Super Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 perfectly capture what makes Nintendo, well, Nintendo. Even if they didn’t get a fancy remaster, those games are just bursting with imagination, incredibly tight controls, and a surprising amount of heart. That blend of creativity and polish is what originally made Nintendo a powerhouse, and it’s why their games are so consistently amazing when everything clicks. I’ve been thinking about what makes Nintendo so special, and I wanted to share what I see as their biggest strengths – the things that really put them at the top of the gaming world.

Nintendo Excels at Creativity

Nintendo consistently demonstrates incredible creativity. They have a knack for innovative and imaginative game design, and Super Mario Galaxy is a prime example. By simply asking, “What if levels were planets?”, they transformed a standard 3D platformer into something truly unique and fun. This allowed Nintendo to experiment with each planet, creating a diverse and delightful experience for players.

The Galaxy games were filled with incredibly creative levels, from worlds with reversed gravity to Mario soaring through the air like a bee. Each level felt fresh and unpredictable. Super Mario Galaxy 2 built on this strength, proving Nintendo’s ability to innovate instead of simply copying ideas. Both games consistently introduced a unique concept in each level and then fully explored its potential before moving on. It’s clear that Astro Bot successfully used this same approach to win Game of the Year in 2024, but Nintendo first demonstrated this talent with the Wii games.

Nintendo Is the Master of Movement and Level Design

Nintendo excels at creating games that feel great to play, and this is closely tied to their innovative design. They understand that how a game controls is just as important as having unique ideas, and they consistently deliver in this area. Movement is central to many Nintendo games, particularly platformers, and every action feels carefully considered, as seen in titles like Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2. It’s not just about precision; Nintendo aims to make movement expressive and enjoyable on a tactile level – they often talk about ‘designing for the hands,’ meaning the control experience is a priority, separate from the game’s overall feel.

It’s strange to think about overcoming gravity while running around a planet, but Nintendo designs its levels so well that it feels completely natural and easy to do. The designers didn’t just create environments; they carefully shaped them around how Mario moves. Subtle hints – like changes in the camera angle, how gravity feels, and sound effects – gently guide players through even the most unusual areas. These games perfectly connect the player to Mario, making everything feel smooth and intuitive. The updated versions enhance the controls even further, but the original games are still incredibly fun to play without them.

Joy and Playability Trump Graphics

Nintendo has always prioritized gameplay over cutting-edge graphics, which has sometimes led people to think of their games as being just for children. However, their bright and colorful style is a signature part of what makes Nintendo special, and they embrace it. While other companies focus on making games look as realistic as possible, Nintendo concentrates on making them fun to play. The recent remaster of Super Mario Galaxy + Galaxy 2 is a perfect example – though the visuals have been updated, that wasn’t the main goal. Even with these improvements, the game still boasts vibrant colors, beautiful backgrounds, and lively animations.

The gameplay has been carefully refined to be even more enjoyable than the original releases. Every detail, from movement to sound, enhances the experience and gives the game a satisfying purpose beyond just visuals. Nintendo consistently delivers games that are a pure joy to play, which is why they resonate so strongly with fans. The simple act of launching Mario into a whirlwind of stars, accompanied by soaring orchestral music, reminds us that gaming isn’t about realism – it’s about having fun.

Nintendo Chases Perfection, Not Trends

It’s clear that many game developers just follow the latest trends, like battle royales and extraction shooters. Nintendo, however, does things differently. They focus on making the games they want to make, rather than chasing what’s currently popular. Games like Splatoon and Super Mario Galaxy prove this – no one predicted those! Instead of trying to compete with other games, Nintendo reinvents genres and creates truly exceptional experiences. This confidence in their own ideas is what sets Nintendo apart and allows them to take creative risks.

Not every new idea Nintendo tries is a hit – the Wii U is a good example of that. Going against the grain doesn’t always work. However, Nintendo often succeeds by doing the opposite of what’s popular. Games like Super Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 surprised players, and the recent remasters stay true to that spirit. They avoid adding things just for the sake of it, instead focusing on maintaining the core of the games while making smart, subtle improvements. Nintendo cares more about how well their games play, look, and feel than about achieving massive sales figures.

Nintendo’s Games Are Timeless

What makes Nintendo truly special is how well its games stand the test of time. Even updated versions of titles like Super Mario Galaxy still feel remarkably fresh and inventive, just as they did when they originally came out on the Wii. This lasting quality comes from Nintendo’s approach to game design. They consistently prioritize fun and engaging gameplay, even as technology changes. Nintendo isn’t focused on having the best graphics or the newest hardware; they’d rather create games that anyone can enjoy.

Nintendo games often appear simple on the surface, but they’re actually remarkably deep and rewarding. They offer a lot to learn, from perfecting how you move to discovering the clever ways different game elements work together and the hidden details in each level. This makes them accessible to everyone – you can easily pick them up for a quick game or spend hours mastering everything they have to offer. Nintendo’s art style also holds up remarkably well, like in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, even years later. In a gaming world focused on competition and flashy graphics, Nintendo stands out by remembering what truly matters: the joy of playing, the thrill of discovery, and connecting with the game’s characters and story.

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2025-10-21 00:14