Spin

The Star Spin is a move that Mario can perform in Super Mario Galaxy. It is done when the player shakes the Wii Remote (or Nunchuk for left-handed Players). The move is slightly like a Spin Jump or Mario Tornado except that it can also be done on the ground. It can be used to reflect projectiles flying at Mario, stun enemies, activate switches, swim faster, do a higher jump, and even pick up nearby items.

Mario is able to do a Star Spin because of Luma, a white Luma given to Mario by Princess Rosalina. Whenever Mario does a Star Spin, Luma pops out of his hat for a second. Also, whenever Mario does a Star Spin, Luigi, Toads, Lumas or any other NPCs (and even some items) react to it by also spinning around.

A extremely useful application of the Star Spin is the ability to stun, freeze, or make enemies dizzy by spinning into them. This gives Mario a chance to escape or attack the enemies if the Player is fast enough. Star Spin is needed to defeat some bosses.