For many, the name “Mario” conjures images of iconic platforming masterpieces like Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, or the groundbreaking Super Mario 64. These titans of the gaming world rightfully hold their place in history, constantly celebrated and revisited. But tucked away in the vast Mushroom Kingdom archives are gems that, for reasons often unclear, haven’t quite reached the same legendary status. Today, however, one such overlooked champion is finally getting its due, making a triumphant return to the forefront via Nintendo Switch Online.

That’s right, Nintendo has quietly, yet significantly, added Super Mario Galaxy 2 to its ever-expanding Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack library. And for those who might have missed its initial debut or dismissed it as a mere sequel, this is a monumental occasion.

Released in 2010 for the Wii, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is, quite frankly, a masterclass in game design. Following in the footsteps of its universally acclaimed predecessor, many expected a safe retread. What they received, however, was an evolution, a bold reimagining that pushed the boundaries of what a 3D Mario game could be.

So, why was it “underrated” in the first place? Perhaps it was the sheer weight of expectation after the original Galaxy’s groundbreaking success. Perhaps its simultaneous release with other high-profile titles overshadowed its brilliance. Or maybe, just maybe, the gaming landscape at the time was beginning to shift, and the pure,
unadulterated joy of a meticulously crafted 3D platformer, while still appreciated, wasn’t always the loudest voice in the room.

But the truth is, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is not just a good Mario game; it’s arguably one of the best Mario games ever made. It took the inventive gravity-bending mechanics of the original and dialed them up to eleven, introducing entirely new planetary concepts, power-ups, and challenges that felt fresh and exhilarating. From riding Yoshi across vast cosmic landscapes to navigating precarious platforms in the vacuum of space, the sheer creativity on display is breathtaking.

What truly sets Galaxy 2 apart is its relentless innovation. Every new galaxy feels like a meticulously crafted puzzle box, designed to surprise and delight. The developers didn’t just reuse ideas; they expanded upon them, refined them, and presented them in ways that constantly demanded new ways of thinking and playing. The addition of Yoshi, with his unique tongue-grabbing and flutter-jumping abilities, opened up entirely new avenues for exploration and puzzle-solving, adding a delightful layer of cooperative play to the solo experience.

Furthermore, the game’s difficulty curve is expertly managed. While it offers a substantial challenge for seasoned players, it never feels insurmountable. The introduction of new mechanics is gradual, and the game provides subtle cues and guidance, ensuring that players of all skill levels can experience its wonders. And for those who crave the ultimate test, the post-game content, including the notorious Grandmaster Galaxy, provides a daunting yet immensely rewarding challenge.

Beyond the gameplay, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a feast for the senses. The vibrant, imaginative art style, coupled with the soaring, orchestral score, creates an atmosphere of pure wonder. The sense of scale and majesty as you traverse these celestial bodies is
unparalleled, making each discovery feel like a true cosmic adventure.

Now, with its arrival on Nintendo Switch Online, a whole new generation of players has the opportunity to experience this masterpiece. For those who grew up with the Wii and missed out, or for newer Switch owners who have only experienced the more recent 3D Mario titles, this is a chance to fill a crucial gap in their gaming education. It’s a chance to understand the roots of some of the design principles that continue to inform Mario’s 3D adventures today.

The “underrated” label is a subjective one, and Super Mario Galaxy 2 was certainly critically acclaimed upon its release. However, its cultural footprint and widespread recognition haven’t quite matched its astronomical quality. Its inclusion on Switch Online is not just a port; it’s a reclamation. It’s Nintendo acknowledging a true gem that deserves its place amongst the pantheon of Mario greats.

So, if you have a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
subscription, do yourself a favor. Dive into the cosmos. Embrace the whimsy. Rediscover the magic of this forgotten star. Super Mario Galaxy 2 is no longer a secret waiting to be uncovered; it’s a readily available treasure waiting to be explored, and its arrival on Switch Online is a victory for gaming enthusiasts everywhere. Don’t miss your chance to play one of the most brilliantly conceived and executed platformers of all time. The universe awaits.