Super Mario Sunshine



Super Mario Sunshine is the latest platformer console title in the Mario series. It was released in the U.S. on 26 August 2002, nine months after the release of the GameCube. It is the first game on the Nintendo GameCube to exclusively feature Mario, though he appeared in Luigi's Mansion and Super Smash Bros. Melee. Super Mario Sunshine was one of the first GameCube games to become a Player's Choice title. Mario sets out for the prestigious tropical retreat Isle Delfino, for a well-deserved vacation with Princess Peach and Toadsworth. Upon arrival, Mario finds that the once-pristine island has been vandalized with graffiti. As a result of this pollution, the island's source of power, star-shaped creatures called Shine Sprites, have dispersed and the island is covered in a perpetual shadow. Even worse, the culprit seen spreading the graffiti is disguised as Mario; thus, Mario is promptly arrested as soon as his plane lands.

Mario is put on trial, found guilty, and is ordered to clean up the mess and return the Shine Sprites. To help with the cleaning, Mario is given FLUDD, a powerful water cannon toted like a backpack. Mario sets out on his adventure vowing to clear his name and locate the real criminal while restoring tranquility and order to Isle Delfino. The Mario look-alike is referred to as "Shadow Mario" and it is later revealed that Shadow Mario is in fact Bowser Jr., one of Bowser's children. It should be noted that Bowser actually speaks with his voice instead of the usual growl!