Rainbow Mario

Rainbow Mario is a special form of Mario that appears in Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2. Mario can reach this form by getting a Rainbow Star. Like when Mario obtains a Starman, in his Rainbow Mario form, he is invincible; however, the effects of the Rainbow Star are more extensive and longer-lasting than those of a Starman, furthermore The power-up itself is stationary, while the Starman bounces around. As Rainbow Mario, the heroic plumber also runs faster, leaves a light trail behind him, can break through certain objects, and is rewarded with Star Bits if he doesn't stop moving. This doesn't return in Super Mario Galaxy 2 though.

Rainbow Mario's theme is re-orchestration of classic invincibility theme. The music as well as Mario himself will increase in speed while in use, making Mario get harder and harder to control until it runs out.

Due to the traits of invulnerability, changing colors, increased speed, and leaving after-images, this form is similar to Hyper Sonic of the Sonic the Hedgehog series.