Super Mario Galaxy Post Mortem

[BreakABone]

I will start this off by saying I am 120% completely bias towards Mario. Sure most people see me as a Nintendo fanboy, but I have always stood by the notion that I am a Mario fanboy, Nintendo just happens to make his games.

With that said, it is now time for the 3rd in a somewhat lackluster series . The video game post mortem.

Now this game was the highly anticipated sequel to the o so aged Super Mario 64 and of course the most recent in an over 20 year old franchise. To see that this game had a lot to live up to was an understatement.

But in some eyes and even my own eyes. This game not only lived up to expectations, it actually surpassed them. While some will disagree, I preferred that they switched the focus from a wide open world instead focusing more on a linear path. Exploration was still encouraged but this allowed a greater focus on puzzles and platforming.

And the platforming was top of the line. They really don't make pure platformers like this anymore.

The game also just beat you over the head with variety. Where as most games will mix it up with 3-4 different game types. Galaxy seems to do something different around every corner. And it does it in a way where you get it right away.

There are some clever worlds/levels that use the Wii-mote not in some super creative way but in a way that adds to the experience.

The game also features some of the best music EVER in a Mario game.
Good Eye Galaxy

Gusty Gardens Galaxy

Toy Town Galaxy

The game featured a nice balance of old and new. Fun and challenging. And while a second quest with everyone's favorite ignored sibling.

I remember we once had a discussion on these forums on what a 10 game would be. It wouldn't be perfect, but it had to excel in a lot of areas. At the time, I didn't really feel any game deserved a 10 but while thinking about this thread, I couldn't see any reason why this game doesn't deserve it.

The game's only fault in my eyes is the fact it re-uses assests and bosses in the latter half of the game, but even then they mix it up and throw you for a loop.

So thoughts on what was my game of the year 07?