For years, the Mario franchise has been a titan of the gaming world, a dependable source of joy and innovation. From the revolutionary 3D platforming of Super Mario 64 to the intricate mechanics of Super Mario Odyssey, Nintendo consistently delivers experiences that redefine the genre. But in this galaxy of celebrated stars, a few lesser-known constellations often get overlooked. Today, we’re here to shine a much-needed spotlight on one of those brilliant, yet tragically underrated, Mario titles that has finally graced the Nintendo Switch Online service: Super Mario Sunshine.

Yes, you read that right. The vibrant, sun-drenched adventure that once divided fans is now readily accessible to a new generation (and a welcome return for those who fondly remember it). And for those who might have dismissed it in its original GameCube heyday, or never had the chance to experience its unique charm, this is your moment. Forget your assumptions, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised.

Super Mario Sunshine dropped in 2002, and while it was a commercial success, it often finds itself relegated to the “good, but not great” tier in many fan discussions, especially when compared to the lofty standards set by its 3D brethren. Many pointed fingers at FLUDD, the water-spraying backpack that served as Mario’s primary tool. Its mechanics felt different, its presence at times intrusive. The island setting of Isle Delfino, with its tropical allure and rather unusual hotel management side quest, also felt like a departure from the familiar castles and plains.

But therein lies the magic of Sunshine. It dared to be different.

FLUDD, initially perceived as a hindrance, is actually the heart of what makes Sunshine so unique and, dare I say, mechanically brilliant. It’s not just a tool; it’s a dynamic element that completely alters the platforming experience. The ability to hover, propel yourself upwards, blast away grime, and even use the water to interact with the environment opens up a whole new dimension of movement. Mastering FLUDD’s various nozzles – from the versatile Hover Nozzle to the powerful Rocket Nozzle – becomes a satisfying challenge in itself. It’s a system that rewards experimentation and spatial awareness in a way few other Mario games do.

And the setting of Isle Delfino? It’s a character in its own right. The vibrant, almost painterly graphics, the distinct musical score that blends Caribbean vibes with classic Mario melodies, and the quirky narrative that involves Bowser and his son impersonating Mario all contribute to an atmosphere unlike any other in the series. While the “cleaning up graffiti” premise might sound repetitive, it often serves as a clever gateway to hidden secrets, intricate puzzles, and challenging platforming sections that are genuinely rewarding to discover.

Perhaps the biggest testament to Sunshine’s underrated status is its sheer replayability. The game encourages exploration and offers a wealth of optional challenges and secrets. Finding all the Shine Sprites isn’t just a checklist; it’s an invitation to delve deeper into the game’s intricate level design and discover new ways to utilize FLUDD. The boss battles, while sometimes unconventional, are memorable and require you to think outside the box – or rather, outside the water jet.

Now, with Super Mario Sunshine available on the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, there’s no better time to experience this
often-maligned masterpiece. For newcomers, it’s a chance to discover a surprisingly deep and engaging platformer that offers a fresh perspective on the Mario formula. For returning players, it’s an opportunity to revisit Isle Delfino with fresh eyes, appreciating the innovation and charm that might have been overlooked the first time around.

So, fire up your Switch, dive into the Nintendo Switch Online library, and give Super Mario Sunshine a chance. You might just find that this forgotten gem is exactly the dose of tropical sunshine your gaming library has been missing. It’s time this underrated Mario adventure finally got the recognition it truly deserves.