When it comes to the story of Mario games in general, it can be said that if you’ve played one, you’ve played them all. Galaxy 2 surprises us as Mario is on route to visit the beloved peach when she is kidnapped by Bowser. As unexpected as this kidnapping is, Mario has to set out to save his precious princess and defeat his arch enemy. By teaming up with the ever cute Lumas, you will have to explore a number of worlds and galaxies in search of Peach.

In typical Mario fashion, Galaxy 2 delivers all the fun gameplay we’ve come to expect from the first one, and then it steps it up a couple of notches. The game begins in the typical side scrolling fashion but then it reverts back to its 3D adventure platforming form. Once again you will have to visit galaxies and worlds in order to find power stars. Thanks to a new system of navigating worlds or galaxies, moving from galaxy to galaxy is a much easier process. From your new starship (which is a giant Mario face), you can interact with a number of characters as well as jump into your navigation system.

What would Mario be without his power ups? Galaxy 2 has all your favourite power ups from the first and also adds a couple of new ones such as ‘Cloud Mario’ and ‘Drill Mario’. You will also be able to receive help from your trusty man/lizard/thing servant Yoshi which is a great new addition to the game. The gameplay in Galaxy 2 is faster, crazier, and even more fun than the first Galaxy.

The visuals of Galaxy 2 are not worlds apart from its predecessor, but there’s definitely an improvement to be seen. The level design has taken a step up and all the new galaxies make you feel like you’ve been slipped an even stronger drug. There is lots of variety to be found in all the galaxies, with levels ranging from water, to jungle, to lava levels and pretty much anything you could imagine. The detailing is great and the visuals are so uniquely stylized which adds to this superb gaming experience.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 has managed to take a great game and make it even greater. It steps in as a welcomed change from the usual gaming experience. Its all about bringing the fun and enjoyment into gaming without the serious undertone. Plus it can also make you feel intoxicated as you run, swim, fly, and jump around the crazy looking levels. Definitely up there with the stars.