User:Nintendo101: Difference between revisions

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<!--Many galaxies contain unique people, cultures, and problems reflective of the levels' individual mechanics. For example, the [[Honeyhive Galaxy]] is the first galaxy to introduce the [[Bee Mushroom]] and has sections built around using the [[Bee Mario|bee suit]]. The first mission in Honeyhive introduces a community of peaceful, sapient [[Honeybee]]s ruled by a [[Queen Bee]]. They share details about their way of life or specific mechanics on how to use the bee suit when prompted by Mario. The first mission also includes a diminutive bug enemy called a [[Flipbug]] that chase down Mario in his bee suit. The subsequent mission builds upon these details in introducing a similar but much larger bug enemy called a [[Mandibug]] that prey on the Honeybees and are established as neighboring species. This escalates in the third mission with a full on Mandibug invasion and a boss battle with a giant member of the species, [[Bugaboom]].-->
<!--Many galaxies contain unique people, cultures, and problems reflective of the levels' individual mechanics. For example, the [[Honeyhive Galaxy]] is the first galaxy to introduce the [[Bee Mushroom]] and has sections built around using the [[Bee Mario|bee suit]]. The first mission in Honeyhive introduces a community of peaceful, sapient [[Honeybee]]s ruled by a [[Queen Bee]]. They share details about their way of life or specific mechanics on how to use the bee suit when prompted by Mario. The first mission also includes a diminutive bug enemy called a [[Flipbug]] that chase down Mario in his bee suit. The subsequent mission builds upon these details in introducing a similar but much larger bug enemy called a [[Mandibug]] that prey on the Honeybees and are established as neighboring species. This escalates in the third mission with a full on Mandibug invasion and a boss battle with a giant member of the species, [[Bugaboom]].-->
===Setting===
===Setting===
[[File:SMG Artwork Outer Space.png|x150px|thumb||right|Key artwork of outer space, as presented on the game's boxart.]]
[[File:SMG Artwork Outer Space.png|x150px|thumb||right|Key artwork of outer space as presented on the game's boxart.]]
[[File:Ch2 5.png|x90px|thumb||right|[[Rosalina]] netting [[Star Bit]]s as she rides in a [[Starshroom|starship]].]]
[[File:Ch2 5.png|x90px|thumb||right|[[Rosalina]] netting [[Star Bit]]s as she rides in a [[Starshroom|starship]].]]
''Super Mario Galaxy'' is set in [[space|outer space]]. With the exception of [[Grand Finale Galaxy]], which is [[Princess Peach]]'s [[Castle Grounds]] in the [[Mushroom Kingdom]], all levels – refered to as "galaxies" in this game – are staged on worlds far removed from [[Mario]]'s [[Earth|home planet]]. This is the first entry in the [[Super Mario (series)|series]] to explicitly include an [[Space Zone|outer space setting]] since ''[[Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins]]'', and the first time it has been realized by the core ''Super Mario'' team at [[Nintendo EAD]].<ref name=iwata/> A galaxy is an isolated cluster of small planets and other planetary bodies. Some are shaped like spheres, but many are not. Most planets have their own [[Gravity|gravitational pull]], which prevents Mario from falling down [[bottomless pit]]s and enables him to return to his starting position if he just keeps moving forward. Mario's movement, physics, and trajectory bend organically around the planet's shape.<ref name=montreal/><ref name=jasper/> Because they have their own pull, most planets can be directly traveled between just by [[jump]]ing. Otherwise they can be reached via stellate objects called [[Launch Star]]s and [[Pull Star]]s. Not all planets have their own unique gravity: some are shaped like the more traditional courses of ''[[Super Mario 64]]'' and ''[[Super Mario Sunshine]]'' and the gravitational pull is below their mass, but this is conveyed through context.<ref name=jasper/>
''Super Mario Galaxy'' is set in [[space|outer space]]. With the exception of [[Grand Finale Galaxy]], which is [[Princess Peach]]'s [[Castle Grounds]] in the [[Mushroom Kingdom]], all levels – refered to as "galaxies" in this game – are staged on worlds far removed from [[Mario]]'s [[Earth|home planet]]. This is the first entry in the [[Super Mario (series)|series]] to explicitly include an [[Space Zone|outer space setting]] since ''[[Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins]]'', and the first time it has been realized by the core ''Super Mario'' team at [[Nintendo EAD]].<ref name=iwata/> A galaxy is an isolated cluster of small planets and other planetary bodies. Some are shaped like spheres, but many are not. Most planets have their own [[Gravity|gravitational pull]], which prevents Mario from falling down [[bottomless pit]]s and enables him to return to his starting position if he just keeps moving forward. Mario's movement, physics, and trajectory bend organically around the planet's shape.<ref name=montreal/><ref name=jasper/> Because they have their own pull, most planets can be directly traveled between just by [[jump]]ing. Otherwise they can be reached via stellate objects called [[Launch Star]]s and [[Pull Star]]s. Not all planets have their own unique gravity: some are shaped like the more traditional courses of ''[[Super Mario 64]]'' and ''[[Super Mario Sunshine]]'' and the gravitational pull is below their mass, but this is conveyed through context.<ref name=jasper/>
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{{multiframe
{{multiframe
|[[File:SMG Terrace Exterior.png|150px]][[File:SMG Terrace Overview.png|150px]]<br>[[File:SMG Figure Galaxy types and access within the Terrace.png|250px]]
|[[File:SMG Terrace Exterior.png|150px]][[File:SMG Terrace Overview.png|150px]]<br>[[File:SMG Figure Galaxy types and access within the Terrace.png|250px]]
|'''Top row''': the exterior of the Terrace dome on the Comet Observatory (left) and a display of the galaxy selection screen map within it (right).<br>'''Bottom row''': a figure of the Terrace's galaxies conveying their positioning from the Pull Star; how they are accessed; the correlations involving their distance from the Pull Star; and the three different types of galaxies within domes. These attributes generally are representative of all domes in the game.
|'''Top row''': the exterior of the [[Terrace (Super Mario Galaxy)|Terrace]] [[dome]] on the [[Comet Observatory]] (left) and a display of the galaxy selection screen map within it (right).<br>'''Bottom row''': a figure of the Terrace's galaxies conveying their positioning from the Pull Star; how they are accessed; the correlations involving their distance from the Pull Star; and the three different types of galaxies within domes. These attributes generally are representative of all domes in the game.
|size=300
|size=300
|align=right
|align=right
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*"'''Boss galaxies'''" that each contain one mission. They feature linear obstacle courses that lead to a boss battle. Half of them involve [[Bowser Jr.]], either directly or as the inciter for another boss to go after Mario. The other half feature [[Bowser]] himself. With the exception of the Garden, each dome contains one boss galaxy and it is always on the outermost ring in the dome. Completing the mission in these galaxies is a criterion needed to unlock a subsequent dome and is required for game progression. They have the highest or second highest Power Star threshold. The preview model in orbit resembles a bust of Bowser’s head with glowing eyes. The boss galaxy in the Terrace is [[Bowser Jr.'s Robot Reactor]].
*"'''Boss galaxies'''" that each contain one mission. They feature linear obstacle courses that lead to a boss battle. Half of them involve [[Bowser Jr.]], either directly or as the inciter for another boss to go after Mario. The other half feature [[Bowser]] himself. With the exception of the Garden, each dome contains one boss galaxy and it is always on the outermost ring in the dome. Completing the mission in these galaxies is a criterion needed to unlock a subsequent dome and is required for game progression. They have the highest or second highest Power Star threshold. The preview model in orbit resembles a bust of Bowser’s head with glowing eyes. The boss galaxy in the Terrace is [[Bowser Jr.'s Robot Reactor]].


[[File:SMG Screenshot Hungry Luma on the Comet Observatory.jpg|thumb|250px|left|A Hungry Luma outside the Terrace, almost completely stuffed with Star Bits. Feeding it the requested number of Star Bits makes the Luma transform into a wholly new galaxy.]]
[[File:SMG Screenshot Hungry Luma on the Comet Observatory.jpg|thumb|250px|left|A [[Hungry Luma]] outside the Terrace, almost completely stuffed with Star Bits. Feeding it the requested number of Star Bits makes the Luma transform into a wholly new galaxy.]]
There are galaxies available outside of the domes. With the exception of [[Gateway Galaxy]], these ones can also be categorized as mystery or boss galaxies. Most of these are unlocked by feeding [[Hungry Luma]]s a requested number of [[Star Bit]]s. These Lumas appear on the Comet Observatory once certain criteria are met within the dome galaxies (see chart below). There is a Hungry Luma associated with every dome, essentially functioning as an extra level for each one. A tiny house called the [[Gate]] rests on a grassy platform orbiting the observatory. It grants Mario access to Gateway Galaxy. This galaxy is the first level of the game, but it can only be revisited via the Gate once "[[King Kaliente's Spicy Return]]" is completed. Though it is not a dome, there is a Hungry Luma associated with it as well. A planetoid called the [[Planet of Trials]] orbits the observatory and has three galaxies of its own. It becomes reachable once all three of the secret [[Green Star]]s have been collected. [[Grand Finale Galaxy]] is reached on the planetoid after meeting [[Bowser's Galaxy Generator]] is only reachable by speaking to [[Rosalina]] after 60 Power Stars have been collected.
There are galaxies accessible outside of the domes. With the exception of [[Gateway Galaxy]], these ones can also be categorized as mystery or boss galaxies. Most of them are unlocked by feeding [[Hungry Luma]]s a requested number of [[Star Bit]]s. These Lumas appear on the Comet Observatory once certain criteria are met within the dome galaxies (see chart below). There is a Hungry Luma associated with every dome, essentially functioning as an extra level for each one. A tiny house called the [[Gate]] rests on a grassy platform orbiting the observatory. It grants Mario access to Gateway Galaxy. This galaxy is the first level of the game, but it can only be revisited via the Gate once "[[King Kaliente's Spicy Return]]" is completed. Though it is not a dome, there is a Hungry Luma associated with it as well. A planetoid called the [[Planet of Trials]] orbits the observatory and has three galaxies of its own. It becomes reachable once all three of the secret [[Green Star]]s have been collected. [[Grand Finale Galaxy]] is reached on the planetoid after meeting [[Bowser's Galaxy Generator]] is only reachable by speaking to [[Rosalina]] after 60 Power Stars have been collected.


Mario encounters [[Luigi]] in four galaxies: Good Egg Galaxy, Honeyhive Galaxy, [[Battlerock Galaxy]], and [[Ghostly Galaxy]]. In Ghostly Galaxy, Luigi is at the end of the "[[Luigi and the Haunted Mansion]]" mission and will give Mario a Power Star when reached. After Luigi is rescued, he can be seen in the observatory and helps Mario collect Power Stars. When Luigi appears in subsequent galaxies, Mario receives a letter from him asking for help. A picture that hints at his location is included with each letter. Finding him within a galaxy awards Mario with a secret Power Star.
Mario encounters [[Luigi]] in four galaxies: Good Egg Galaxy, Honeyhive Galaxy, [[Battlerock Galaxy]], and [[Ghostly Galaxy]]. In Ghostly Galaxy, Luigi is at the end of the "[[Luigi and the Haunted Mansion]]" mission and will give Mario a Power Star when reached. After Luigi is rescued, he can be seen in the observatory and helps Mario collect Power Stars. When Luigi appears in subsequent galaxies, Mario receives a letter from him asking for help. A picture that hints at his location is included with each letter. Finding him within a galaxy awards Mario with a secret Power Star.
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{{main|Prankster Comet}}
{{main|Prankster Comet}}


Prankster Comets are objects which interfere with a galaxy and give it an extra attribute. The 30 [[Prankster Comet|Comet Star]]s are obtained by completing special challenges in the robust galaxies, namely speed runs; "daredevil" runs (in which Mario is defeated if he takes a single hit); races against [[Cosmic Mario]]; and doubling the speed of enemies and obstacles. They only appear after the corresponding normal mission (e.g. Ghostly Galaxy's "Beware of Bouldergeist") is completed, sometimes immediately, and at other times, only after another galaxy's level is completed. Prankster Comets appear and disappear every other time a mission is completed. After a mission is completed while a Prankster Comet is active, all the Prankster Comets are removed until a second mission is beaten. In some cases, such as in Space Junk Galaxy, all normal missions within a galaxy have to be beaten first before a comet can appear. There are two Prankster Comets in each of the 15 major galaxies: one of the comet types just described, plus a [[Prankster Comet#Purple Comet|Purple Comet]] where [[Mario]] must collect 100 [[Purple Coin]]s. These comets only begin to appear after "The Fate of the Universe" is completed at least once. Which and where Prankster Comets appear can be manipulated by feeding [[Comet Tico]] 20 [[Star Bit]]s.
Prankster Comets are objects that interfere with a galaxy and give it an extra attribute. The 30 [[Prankster Comet|Comet Star]]s are obtained by completing special challenges in the robust galaxies, namely speed runs; "daredevil" runs (in which Mario is defeated if he takes a single hit); races against [[Cosmic Mario]]; and doubling the speed of enemies and obstacles. They only appear after the corresponding normal mission (e.g. Ghostly Galaxy's "Beware of Bouldergeist") is completed, sometimes immediately, and at other times, only after another galaxy's level is completed. Prankster Comets appear and disappear every other time a mission is completed. After a mission is completed while a Prankster Comet is active, all the Prankster Comets are removed until a second mission is beaten. In some cases, such as in Space Junk Galaxy, all normal missions within a galaxy have to be beaten first before a comet can appear. There are two Prankster Comets in each of the 15 robust galaxies: one of the comet types just described, plus a [[Prankster Comet#Purple Comet|Purple Comet]] where [[Mario]] must collect 100 [[Purple Coin]]s. These comets only begin to appear after "The Fate of the Universe" is completed at least once. Which and where Prankster Comets appear can be manipulated by feeding [[Comet Tico]] 20 [[Star Bit]]s.


===The Comet Observatory===
===The Comet Observatory===
{{main|Comet Observatory}}
{{main|Comet Observatory}}
[[File:SMG Comet Observatory Bedroom Overview.png|x180px|thumb||right|The Comet Observatory, as viewed from a circular platform by the [[Bedroom (Super Mario Galaxy)|Bedroom]].]]
[[File:SMG Comet Observatory Bedroom Overview.png|x180px|thumb||right|The Comet Observatory as viewed from a circular platform by the [[Bedroom (Super Mario Galaxy)|Bedroom]].]]


The Comet Observatory is the hub world in the game. It is a bridge between [[dome]]s and serves as a place for the player to rest in between missions.<ref name=quiet/> It is a sprawling structure similar to a palace, with a tall middle spire and ornamental architecture. These attributes visually make it reminiscent of [[Princess Peach's Castle]], the hub of ''[[Super Mario 64]]''. The core of the observatory is a comet called the [[beacon]] that it is fueled by [[Power Star]]s. The beacon is what allows the Comet Observatory to travel through space, but it remains in orbit around [[Earth|Mario's home planet]] throughout most of the game. The observatory has two extraplanetary satellites: the [[Planet of Trials]] and a grassy platform that holds the [[Gate]]. The platform is directly anchored to the observatory via [[Warp Pad]]s and can be considered a direct extension of it, unlike the Planet of Trials.
The Comet Observatory is the hub world in the game. It is a bridge between [[dome]]s and serves as a place for the player to rest in between missions.<ref name=quiet/> It is a sprawling structure similar to a palace, with a tall middle spire and ornamental architecture. These attributes visually make it reminiscent of [[Princess Peach's Castle]], the hub of ''[[Super Mario 64]]''. The core of the observatory is a comet called the [[beacon]] that it is fueled by [[Power Star]]s. The beacon is what allows the Comet Observatory to travel through space, but it remains in orbit around [[Earth|Mario's home planet]] throughout most of the game. The observatory has two extraplanetary satellites: the [[Planet of Trials]] and a grassy platform that holds the [[Gate]]. The platform is directly anchored to the observatory via [[Warp Pad]]s and can be considered a direct extension of it, unlike the Planet of Trials.
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Including Gateway Galaxy, there are 9 galaxies directly accessed from the Comet Observatory. Six of these galaxies come from the [[Hungry Luma]]s affiliated with each dome. Unlike the hub worlds of ''Super Mario Galaxy'''s predecessors, there are no hidden Power Stars directly found on the observatory, though accessing the Planet of Trials, entering the Gate, and the arrival of Hungry Lumas are framed similarly. Five [[1-Up Mushroom]]s are hidden in the observatory. Most of the observatory is obscured by darkness when Mario first arrives due to the abduction of its Power Stars and only the [[Terrace (Super Mario Galaxy)|Terrace]] can be accessed. As Mario collects Power Stars, energy is restored to the observatory and new areas become lit to convey that they are now accessible. Warp Pads dot the Comet Observatory. They can be used to quickly reach adjacent locations on the hub. A [[Red Star]] appears above the [[Bedroom (Super Mario Galaxy)|Bedroom]] once Mario completes "[[Gateway's Purple Coins]]". Touching it transforms him into [[Flying Mario]] and allows him to soar through the skies of the observatory. There is nothing on the observatory that can harm Mario, and he will safely be transported back to solid ground if he falls of its edge.
Including Gateway Galaxy, there are 9 galaxies directly accessed from the Comet Observatory. Six of these galaxies come from the [[Hungry Luma]]s affiliated with each dome. Unlike the hub worlds of ''Super Mario Galaxy'''s predecessors, there are no hidden Power Stars directly found on the observatory, though accessing the Planet of Trials, entering the Gate, and the arrival of Hungry Lumas are framed similarly. Five [[1-Up Mushroom]]s are hidden in the observatory. Most of the observatory is obscured by darkness when Mario first arrives due to the abduction of its Power Stars and only the [[Terrace (Super Mario Galaxy)|Terrace]] can be accessed. As Mario collects Power Stars, energy is restored to the observatory and new areas become lit to convey that they are now accessible. Warp Pads dot the Comet Observatory. They can be used to quickly reach adjacent locations on the hub. A [[Red Star]] appears above the [[Bedroom (Super Mario Galaxy)|Bedroom]] once Mario completes "[[Gateway's Purple Coins]]". Touching it transforms him into [[Flying Mario]] and allows him to soar through the skies of the observatory. There is nothing on the observatory that can harm Mario, and he will safely be transported back to solid ground if he falls of its edge.


[[File:SMG Library Mario Cutscene.png|x100px|thumb||left|Scene from the introductory cutscene that plays when Mario enters the library after a new chapter has been unlocked.]]
[[File:SMG Library Mario Cutscene.png|x100px|thumb||left|Scene from the introductory cutscene that plays when Mario enters the [[Library (Super Mario Galaxy)|library]] after a new chapter has been unlocked.]]
The Comet Observatory is a nursey ground for [[Luma (species)|Luma]]s. They are cared for by [[Rosalina]], who treats them as if they were her children. As light is restored to the observatory, more and more Lumas appear. It was built by Rosalina when she was a child with an [[Luma (character)|apricot-colored Luma]]. Over time, as more Lumas arrived and needed care, she expanded its size. The Comet Observatory visits Mario's home world once every hundred years, which is celebrated in the [[Mushroom Kingdom]] as the [[Star Festival]]. When the beacon is at its maximum size, Rosalina can make the observatory fold into the shape of a rocket ship and soar through the sky like a comet. The domes are framed as an extension of the observatory that provide a view of the cosmos. Each one is themed around rooms in a house, such as the bedroom, kitchen, and so on. There are two dedicated locations similar in concept that are not domes on the observatory: the [[Garage (Super Mario Galaxy)|garage]] and the [[Library (Super Mario Galaxy)|library]]. The garage is framed as an intergalactic repair shop that [[Starshroom|starships]] can dock to. This is where the [[Toad Brigade]] and [[Luigi]] establish themselves once "[[Bee Mario Takes Flight]]" and "[[Luigi and the Haunted Mansion]]", respectively, are completed.
The Comet Observatory is a nursey ground for [[Luma (species)|Luma]]s. They are cared for by [[Rosalina]], who treats them as if they were her children. As light is restored to the observatory, more and more Lumas appear. It was built by Rosalina when she was a child with an [[Luma (character)|apricot-colored Luma]]. Over time, as more Lumas arrived and needed care, she expanded its size. The Comet Observatory visits Mario's home world once every hundred years, which is celebrated in the [[Mushroom Kingdom]] as the [[Star Festival]]. When the beacon is at its maximum size, Rosalina can make the observatory fold into the shape of a rocket ship and soar through the sky like a comet. The domes are framed as an extension of the observatory that provide a view of the cosmos. Each one is themed around rooms in a house, such as the bedroom, kitchen, and so on. There are two dedicated locations similar in concept that are not domes on the observatory: the [[Garage (Super Mario Galaxy)|garage]] and the [[Library (Super Mario Galaxy)|library]]. The garage is framed as an intergalactic repair shop that [[Starshroom|starships]] can dock to. This is where the [[Toad Brigade]] and [[Luigi]] establish themselves once "[[Bee Mario Takes Flight]]" and "[[Luigi and the Haunted Mansion]]", respectively, are completed.


The library is a closed off space behind the beacon that becomes accessible once "[[The Fiery Stronghold]]" is completed. Though entered like a dome, there are no galaxies here. It contains no collectibles or anything related to the rescue of [[Princess Peach]]. The are no tangible incentives for coming to the library, and the player is never forced to enter it. This is where Rosalina reads a [[Rosalina's Story|storybook]] to the Lumas. New chapters become available as Mario accumulates Power Stars. The book details her personal backstory, the history of the Comet Observatory, Luma behavior, and provides insight into the past of the apricot-colored Luma that travels with Mario. This part of the game was created by [[Yoshiaki Koizumi]] and included at the discretion of [[Shigeru Miyamoto]]. Rosalina's Story is noted for its heartfelt and melancholy elements. The illustrations on the pages have been compared to ''{{wp|The Little Prince}}''.
The library is a closed off space behind the beacon that becomes accessible once "[[The Fiery Stronghold]]" is completed. Though entered like a dome, there are no galaxies here. It contains no collectibles or anything related to the rescue of [[Princess Peach]]. The are no tangible incentives for coming to the library, and the player is never forced to enter it. This is where Rosalina reads a [[Rosalina's Story|storybook]] to the Lumas. New chapters become available as Mario accumulates Power Stars. The book details her personal backstory, the history of the Comet Observatory, Luma behavior, and provides insight into the past of the apricot-colored Luma that travels with Mario. This part of the game was created by [[Yoshiaki Koizumi]] and included at the discretion of [[Shigeru Miyamoto]]. Rosalina's Story is noted for its heartfelt and melancholy elements.<ref name=wired/><ref name=quiet/> The illustrations on the pages have been compared to ''{{wp|The Little Prince}}''.<ref name=ruben/>


==References==
==References==
<references/>
<references/>

Revision as of 11:55, March 2, 2021

Casual Nintendo historian. Otherwise an artist and a professional zoologist. Bio degree. I've had an account here since 2012.

I wrote the character sections for Super Mario 64, Super Mario Galaxy 2, and Super Mario Odyssey. I contributed much of the article for Super Mario Sunshine and am currently working on Super Mario Galaxy.

I have been a fan of Nintendo since a very young age. My first Mario games (and three of the first video games I ever owned) were Super Mario World: Super Mario Advance 2, Super Mario 64 DS, and Mario Kart DS. These games were good company for a young kid who moved around a lot and had difficulty keeping long-lasting friends.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I sequentially played some of my favorite games in the Super Mario series to 100% completion. This includes, in order, Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island, Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, Super Mario Galaxy, Super Mario Galaxy 2, and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. I will complete this marathon with Super Mario Odyssey. It's been really fun so far! These are great games, and I always wanted to marathon a series like this before but never had the time. It has been interesting to see where the series began and where it has ended up. The design philosophies, the characters, the art directions, world building, level design, narrative, etc. All good stuff. It might be fun to write something about it some day.

My favorite video game character is Yoshi.

Sandbox for current project

Setting

Official artwork of outer space from Super Mario Galaxy. This piece appears on the boxart for the game and in various promotional materials. It is comparable to this artwork of Gelato Beach from Super Mario Sunshine that is also incorporated into promotional wallpaper.
Key artwork of outer space as presented on the game's boxart.
Rosalina's Story Chapter 2, page 5
Rosalina netting Star Bits as she rides in a starship.

Super Mario Galaxy is set in outer space. With the exception of Grand Finale Galaxy, which is Princess Peach's Castle Grounds in the Mushroom Kingdom, all levels – refered to as "galaxies" in this game – are staged on worlds far removed from Mario's home planet. This is the first entry in the series to explicitly include an outer space setting since Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins, and the first time it has been realized by the core Super Mario team at Nintendo EAD.[1] A galaxy is an isolated cluster of small planets and other planetary bodies. Some are shaped like spheres, but many are not. Most planets have their own gravitational pull, which prevents Mario from falling down bottomless pits and enables him to return to his starting position if he just keeps moving forward. Mario's movement, physics, and trajectory bend organically around the planet's shape.[2][3] Because they have their own pull, most planets can be directly traveled between just by jumping. Otherwise they can be reached via stellate objects called Launch Stars and Pull Stars. Not all planets have their own unique gravity: some are shaped like the more traditional courses of Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine and the gravitational pull is below their mass, but this is conveyed through context.[3]

The theme of space is communicated in various ways throughout Super Mario Galaxy. Many galaxies include distant asteroid belts or views of massive, unreachable planets orbiting suns that peak over their horizons. Depending on the distance from the game's camera, the light from a visible sun retracts, mimicking the behavior of real sunlight. The skyboxes of the galaxies feature nebulas, auroras, and starry skies. Three-dimensional objects – including Mario himself – exhibit a soft glow in certain positions as if struck by the light from distant stars. Black holes occur in place of bottomless pits in many galaxies. Super Mario Galaxy includes some motifs derivative of science fiction, such as humanoid robots, fortified battle facilities, UFOs, and starships. Much of the game's setting include whimsical, tranquil, and surreal elements comparable to those found in children's books.[4][5][6] Locations are reached via a palace-like starship called the Comet Observatory, the game's hub world. It is overseen by a princess named Rosalina and is a nursery for spacefaring star children called Lumas. In lieu of aliens, the people found living in the galaxies include Star Bunnies, Honeybees, and Penguins. Star Bits, small collectibles that fall from the sky like shooting stars, resemble konpeitō candies and are eaten by the Lumas. There are planets and entire galaxies that look like dessert.

According to director Yoshiaki Koizumi, the inception for Super Mario Galaxy was to create a Super Mario game with spherical worlds. It was thought that these worlds would make it less likely for players to get disoriented or have to reposition the camera. These were issues he observed during the development of Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Super Mario Sunshine that prevented complete immersion.[2][3] The decision to stage the game in outer space was made because the development team thought that the spherical worlds would most intuitively make sense as planets.[1] In 2017, a figure was released by Nintendo that conveys that Super Mario Galaxy is structurally viewed as a different type of 3D Mario game from its immediate predecessors – the "sandbox-style" games Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine. Nintendo aligns it with the succeeding games Super Mario Galaxy 2, Super Mario 3D Land, and Super Mario 3D World as a linear "course clear-style" game.[7] However, many of the levels in Super Mario Galaxy are structured similarly to the ones in its predecessors, particularly in the robust six-mission galaxies and the large planets that do not have their own centers of gravity.[3] These principals derive from hakoniwa, or "garden-in-box", and Koizumi cites it directly as an influence behind the worlds in Super Mario Galaxy.[2][4][8]

Galaxies

Main article: Galaxy
SMG Terrace Exterior.pngTerrace dome galaxies. "Super Mario Galaxy World Map," so to say.
Figure. Visual representation of the galaxies accessed from inside the Terrace in Super Mario Galaxy. This was created to serve as visual aide to help explain: (a) levels orbit around an origin; (b) the distance from the origin positively correlates with how many Power Stars are necessary to unlock them; (c) negatively correlates with the number of missions within each galaxy; (d) there are three different types of galaxies within a dome; and (e) levels do not need to be completed in the unilateral way one may expect from a 2D Super Mario game. Though this figure represents the Terrace, these attributes are reflective of all domes. The way levels are accessed in Super Mario Galaxy is intuitive in execution, but is difficult to explain in exclusively in writing. It is highly distinctive from previous and subsequent Super Mario platformers.
Top row: the exterior of the Terrace dome on the Comet Observatory (left) and a display of the galaxy selection screen map within it (right).
Bottom row: a figure of the Terrace's galaxies conveying their positioning from the Pull Star; how they are accessed; the correlations involving their distance from the Pull Star; and the three different types of galaxies within domes. These attributes generally are representative of all domes in the game.

In Super Mario Galaxy, levels are accessed inside of domes on the Comet Observatory. They are spatially distributed across the hub, similar to the access points for levels in Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine. However, with the exception of the Garden, each dome contains a set of five different galaxies instead of just one dedicated course. Domes are unlocked unilaterally as the player completes certain criteria. These make the domes homologous to the worlds of the 2D Super Mario games like Super Mario Bros. 3. However, as in its 3D predecessors, the player is not restricted to linear course progression in Super Mario Galaxy.

Each galaxy contains objectives referred to as missions. Completing a mission has Mario acquire one of the galaxy's Power Stars, the same tokens used in Super Mario 64 for unlocking levels. One mission correlates with one Power Star. The start of each mission has a brief cinematic preview of the galaxy that hints at the location of the Power Star, as was similarly done in Super Mario Sunshine. Once a specified number of Power Stars has been accumulated, a new galaxy becomes unlockable at the player's discretion. Only half of the Power Stars in the game are required for progression. The minimum number of Power Stars needed to access the game's final level is 60 in a game that contains 120 total. Consequently, a player who completes as many missions as possible within one dome may unlock all the galaxies within the next all at once when they enter it for the first time.

Every dome has a Pull Star at its center. Entering the Pull Star brings Mario to an interactive selection screen of all the dome's galaxies. The galaxies orbit around the Pull Star (the origin; see right). The display is directly comparable to models of solar systems, with each galaxy following a circular trajectory around the Pull Star. The distance of these orbital lines from the Pull Star has a positive correlation with the number of Power Stars required to unlock the galaxies and a negative correlation with the number of mission available within them. (i.e. The galaxies closest to the origin typically have the greatest number of missions and require the lowest number of Power Stars to unlock. The farthest ones contain the fewest and are the easiest to unlock.) Using the Terrace as an example, a dome contains three different types of galaxies:

  • "Robust galaxies" that contain at least six missions. They either feature a high number of visitable planets or a small selection of large planets to explore. The missions build off of each other environmentally or narratively. (i.e. The events that occur in one mission foreshadow the events of the subsequent mission.) Two or more of the six missions typically involves a boss battle. Most domes contain two or three of these galaxies, and they are all listed together on the first page of the in-game Star List. They are the only galaxies orbited by Prankster Comets. The robust galaxies of the Terrace are Good Egg Galaxy and Honeyhive Galaxy.
  • "Mystery galaxies" that each contain one mission. Before being unlocked, they are represented by course preview models shaped like ? Blocks. These galaxies are highly distinctive in theme and mission. Some of them entail minigames like Ray Surfing or Star Ball. Others are athletic obstacle courses. Mystery galaxies usually require completing a certain mission in another galaxy in addition to accumulating a specific number of Power Stars to unlock. Each dome contains one or two mystery galaxies. In the Terrace, they are Loopdeeloop Galaxy and Flipswitch Galaxy.
  • "Boss galaxies" that each contain one mission. They feature linear obstacle courses that lead to a boss battle. Half of them involve Bowser Jr., either directly or as the inciter for another boss to go after Mario. The other half feature Bowser himself. With the exception of the Garden, each dome contains one boss galaxy and it is always on the outermost ring in the dome. Completing the mission in these galaxies is a criterion needed to unlock a subsequent dome and is required for game progression. They have the highest or second highest Power Star threshold. The preview model in orbit resembles a bust of Bowser’s head with glowing eyes. The boss galaxy in the Terrace is Bowser Jr.'s Robot Reactor.
File:SMG Screenshot Hungry Luma on the Comet Observatory.jpg
A Hungry Luma outside the Terrace, almost completely stuffed with Star Bits. Feeding it the requested number of Star Bits makes the Luma transform into a wholly new galaxy.

There are galaxies accessible outside of the domes. With the exception of Gateway Galaxy, these ones can also be categorized as mystery or boss galaxies. Most of them are unlocked by feeding Hungry Lumas a requested number of Star Bits. These Lumas appear on the Comet Observatory once certain criteria are met within the dome galaxies (see chart below). There is a Hungry Luma associated with every dome, essentially functioning as an extra level for each one. A tiny house called the Gate rests on a grassy platform orbiting the observatory. It grants Mario access to Gateway Galaxy. This galaxy is the first level of the game, but it can only be revisited via the Gate once "King Kaliente's Spicy Return" is completed. Though it is not a dome, there is a Hungry Luma associated with it as well. A planetoid called the Planet of Trials orbits the observatory and has three galaxies of its own. It becomes reachable once all three of the secret Green Stars have been collected. Grand Finale Galaxy is reached on the planetoid after meeting Bowser's Galaxy Generator is only reachable by speaking to Rosalina after 60 Power Stars have been collected.

Mario encounters Luigi in four galaxies: Good Egg Galaxy, Honeyhive Galaxy, Battlerock Galaxy, and Ghostly Galaxy. In Ghostly Galaxy, Luigi is at the end of the "Luigi and the Haunted Mansion" mission and will give Mario a Power Star when reached. After Luigi is rescued, he can be seen in the observatory and helps Mario collect Power Stars. When Luigi appears in subsequent galaxies, Mario receives a letter from him asking for help. A picture that hints at his location is included with each letter. Finding him within a galaxy awards Mario with a secret Power Star.

There are 42 dedicated galaxies in the game. Of this total 15 are robust galaxies, 20 are mystery galaxies, and 6 are boss galaxies. If the Comet Observatory, its library, and its individual domes are considered individual levels than the true total number is 50. Some galaxies have tiny otherworldly subareas reached via Warp Pipe that contain an interactive side objective. If each of these areas were to be considered levels as well, then the true number would be even higher. The chart below lists the galaxies of the game roughly as they are listed on the Star List. Each galaxy is given a brief description, an in-game screenshot, a list of all of their missions, and granular details. There is a legend at the bottom of the chart that explains how the galaxies are organized and what the symbols in it used represent.

Galaxies
Model of the Terrace Dome from Super Mario Galaxy The Terrace
01. Good Egg Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×18 Total number of boss battles.×3 		Missions 02. Honeyhive Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×7 Total number of boss battles.×2 		Missions
Good Egg Galaxy Starting Planet.png Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Dino Piranha Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. A Snack of Cosmic Proportions SMG Honeyhive Starting Planet.png Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Bee Mario Takes Flight Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Trouble on the Tower
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. King Kaliente's Battle Fleet Smg icon speedycomet.png Dino Piranha Speed Run Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Big Bad Bugaboom Smg icon cosmiccomet.png Honeyhive Cosmic Mario Race
Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coin Omelet Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Luigi on the Roof Smg icon purplecomet.png The Honeyhive's Purple Coins Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Luigi in the Honeyhive Kingdom
A galaxy in low orbit of an earth-like planet. Each planet is highly distinctive, but most of them have grassy knolls and are shaped like food. It introduces the reoccurring Electrogoombas and King Kaliente.
Unlock criterion: complete "Grand Star Rescue" 		The Honeyhive Kingdom – a forested land inhabited by Honeybees. Its planets have large deciduous trees and clear bodies of water. Some areas are covered in honey. The kingdom is invaded by Mandibugs.
Unlock criterion: collect 3 Power Stars
03. Loopdeeloop Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×3 		Mission 04. Flipswitch Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×1 		Mission
Overview of the Loopdeeloop Galaxy Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Surfing 101 SMG Flipswitch Galaxy Mission.png Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Painting the Planet Yellow
A looping stretch of water. Penguins surf on the backs of rays here. Coach explains the basics.
Unlock criterion: collect 5 Power Stars 		Flipswitch Panels arranged like a cube around a black hole. Spike Traps move along suspended tracks over the panels.
Unlock criterion: collect 7 Power Stars
05. Bowser Jr.'s Robot Reactor
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Mission File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png Sweet Sweet Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×3 		Mission
A screenshot of Bowser Jr.'s Robot Reactor during the "Megaleg's Moon" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Megaleg's Moon A screenshot of Sweet Sweet Galaxy during the "Rocky Road" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Rocky Road
A metal sphere with Bill Blasters and an artificial moon orbiting an earth-like planet. Bowser Jr.'s towering robot, Megaleg, resides on the moon.
Unlock criterion: collect 8 Power Stars 		An athletic, otherworldly course made of cakes, cookies, and other sweets. It has long stretches of continuously moving platforms with shapes cut out of them.
Unlock criteria: collect 7 Power Stars and feed the Luma 400 Star Bits
Model of the Fountain Dome from Super Mario Galaxy The Fountain
06. Space Junk Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×15 Total number of boss battles.×2 		Missions 07. Rolling Green Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×3 		Mission
A screenshot of Space Junk Galaxy during the "Pull Star Path" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Pull Star Path Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Kamella's Airship Attack An overview of the Rolling Green Galaxy Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Rolling in the Clouds
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Tarantox's Tangled Web Smg icon speedycomet.png Pull Star Path Speed Run
Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coin Spacewalk Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Yoshi's Unexpected Appearance
A stretch of rocks and space debris. Large portions of the galaxy are navigated via Pull Stars and Sling Pods. Spoings and other spidery creatures occur here. A giant one traps members of the Toad Brigade.
Unlock criteria: collect 9 Power Stars and complete "Megaleg's Moon" 		Flat, grassy planets arranged similarly to a golf course. They can only be navigated by riding the Star Ball. Most planets have flower beds and groups of Goombas.
Unlock criterion: collect 11 Power Stars
08. Battlerock Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×7 Total number of reachable areas.×11 Total number of boss battles.×2 		Missions 09. Hurry-Scurry Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 		Mission
An overview of the Battlerock Galaxy Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Battlerock Barrage Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Breaking into the Battlerock A screenshot of Hurry-Scurry Galaxy during the "Shrinking Satellite" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. (What a gorgeous skybox.) Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Shrinking Satellite
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Topmaniac and the Topman Tribe Smg icon daredevilcomet.png Topmaniac's Daredevil Run
Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coins on the Battlerock Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Battlerock's Garbage Dump
Smg icon greenstar.png Luigi under the Saucer
Battle facilities equipped with electric traps and artilleries. Cannons and Bill Blasters line the titular Battlerock and start firing when Mario is in close proximity. The galaxy is affiliated with the Topman Tribe.
Unlock criterion: collect 12 Power Stars 		Shrinking Tiles arranged into a planet shaped like a rhombicuboctahedron. A black hole is at the center of the planet. Notes cover the tiles. Collecting each one causes the black hole to collapse.
Unlock criterion: collect 18 Power Stars
10. Bowser's Star Reactor
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×4 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Mission File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png Sling Pod Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 		Mission
A screenshot of Bowser's Star Reactor during "The Fiery Stronghold" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Fiery Stronghold A screenshot of Sling Pod Galaxy during the "A Sticky Situation" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. A Very Sticky Situation
A stone fortress orbiting a giant sun. It features a twisting path and gravity fields. Fire Bars and Thwomps obstruct the path. It feeds into a big staircase leading to Bowser.
Unlock criterion: collect 15 Power Stars 		A cluster of Fire Bars, Floating Mines, and Cannons above a black hole. The galaxy is navigated via Sling Pods.
Unlock criteria: complete "Tarantox's Tangled Web" and feed the Luma 400 Star Bits
Model of the Kitchen Dome from Super Mario Galaxy The Kitchen
11. Beach Bowl Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×5 		Missions 12. Bubble Breeze Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×1 		Mission
Beach Bowl Galaxy Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Sunken Treasure Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Passing the Swim Test The first area of the Bubble Breeze Galaxy Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Through the Poison Swamp
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Secret Undersea Cavern Smg icon fastfoecomet.png Fast Foes on the Cyclone Stone
Smg icon purplecomet.png Beachcombing for Purple Coins Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Wall Jumping up Waterfalls
A beach galaxy inhabited by Penguins. Its largest planet is a hemisphere filled with water. The second is an obstacle course with Thwomps and Tox Boxes. A third, secret planet has waterfalls and Cataquacks.
Unlock criteria: collect 16 Power Stars and complete "The Fiery Stronghold" 		One giant planet covered in a poisonous bog. Areas are separated by stone columns. It can only be navigated via bubble. Floating Mines and rotating objects within the areas can pop the bubble.
Unlock criterion: collect 19 Power Stars
13. Ghostly Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×12 Total number of boss battles.×2 		Missions 14. Buoy Base Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×2 Total number of reachable areas.×3 		Missions
A screenshot of Ghostly Galaxy during the "Beware of Bouldergeist" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Luigi and the Haunted Mansion Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. A Very Spooky Sprint A screenshot of Buoy Base Galaxy during "The Floating Fortress" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Floating Fortress Smg icon greenstar.png The Secret of Buoy Base
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Beware of Bouldergeist Smg icon daredevilcomet.png Bouldergeist's Daredevil Run
Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coins in the Bone Pen Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Matter Splatter Mansion
Haunted wastelands that orbit a dimly-lit sun. Its largest planet is a Boo Mansion that holds Luigi captive. The monster that captured him, Bouldergeist, resides in this galaxy.[9]
Unlock criterion: collect 20 Power Stars 		Two planets filled with water. Its largest planet is a hemisphere that as a fortress at its center. It is equipped with rotating platforms, Water Shooters, and other hazards. The second is a sphere equipped with Ball Beamers.
Unlock criteria: collect 30 Power Stars and complete "Sunken Treasure"
15. Bowser Jr.'s Airship Armada
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×5 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Mission File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png Drip Drop Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×1 		Mission
A screenshot of Bowser Jr.'s Airship Armada during the "Sinking the Airships" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Sinking the Airships A screenshot of Drip Drop Galaxy during the "Giant Eel Outbreak" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Giant Eel Outbreak
Bowser's airship fleet. Airships must be boarded to navigate the fleet, each one carrying enemies. A tracked platform brings Mario to Bowser Jr. A tiny planetoid can be visited that has a bouncy surface.
Unlock criterion: collect 23 Power Stars 		An ocean planet where Penguins swim. The birds are troubled by an outbreak of Gringills. A sunken airship and damaged Starshroom rest at the bottom of the ocean.
Unlock criteria: complete "Sunken Treasure" and feed the Luma 600 Star Bits
Model of the Bedroom Dome from Super Mario Galaxy The Bedroom
16. Gusty Garden Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×13 Total number of boss battles.×2 		Missions 17. Freezeflame Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×5 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Missions
A screenshot of Gusty Garden Galaxy during the "Bunnies in the Wind" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Bunnies in the Wind Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Dirty Tricks of Major Burrows A screenshot of Freezeflame Galaxy during "The Frozen Peak of Baron Brrr" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Frozen Peak of Baron Brrr Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Freezeflame's Blistering Core
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Gusty Garden's Gravity Scramble Smg icon daredevilcomet.png Major Burrows's Daredevil Run Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Hot and Cold Collide Smg icon cosmiccomet.png Frosty Cosmic Mario Race
Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coins on the Puzzle Cube Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. The Golden Chomp Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coins on the Summit Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Conquering the Summit
Grassy, flowery planets above a sea of clouds. Floaty Fluffs grow here: they can be used to travel on gusts of wind to reach other planets. Star Bunnies live in Gusty Garden and grow crops. They are chased by Undergrunts.
Unlock criteria: collect 24 Power Stars and complete "Sinking the Airships" 		A galaxy of fire and ice. It features Freezy Peak, a snowy mountain with freezing water at its base, and a spherical molten planet in the midst of splitting in half. Stone platforms enable traversal between the hemispheres.
Unlock criterion: collect 26 Power Stars
18. Dusty Dune Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×7 Total number of reachable areas.×7 		Missions 19. Honeyclimb Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×3 		Mission
A screenshot of Dusty Dune Galaxy during the "Soaring on the Desert Winds" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Soaring on the Desert Winds Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Blasting through the Sand A screenshot of Honeyclimb Galaxy during the "Scaling the Sticky Wall" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Scaling the Sticky Wall
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Sunbaked Sand Castle Smg icon speedycomet.png Sandblast Speed Run
Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coins in the Desert Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Bullet Bill on Your Back
Smg icon greenstar.png Treasure of the Pyramid
Sandy planets under a desert sun. Shifting and rising sand makes platforms move rapidly or sink underground. One planet is a floating pyramid that can be entered, and some have quicksand.
Unlock criterion: collect 29 Power Stars 		Three giant slabs of honeycombs. The Bee Mushroom occurs here and the walls are clung to by Mandibugs.
Unlock criterion: collect 42 Power Stars
20. Bowser's Dark Matter Plant
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×5 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Mission File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png Bigmouth Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×1 		Mission
A screenshot of Bowser's Dark Matter Plant during the "Darkness on the Horizon" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Darkness on the Horizon A screenshot of Bigmouth Galaxy during the "Bigmouth's Gold Bait" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Bigmouth's Gold Bait
A dark world containing a trap-filled obstacle course. It features gravity fields and concentrations of dark matter. Most of it is on a two-dimensional plane. The course leads to Bowser.
Unlock criterion: collect 33 Power Stars 		A giant stone fish orbiting a massive ocean planet. The belly of the planet contains two lakes, whirlpools, beds of seaweed, and Boos. Penguru comes here when he wants to be alone.
Unlock criteria: complete "Soaring on the Desert Winds" and feed the Luma 800 Star Bits
Model of the Engine Room Dome from Super Mario Galaxy The Engine Room
21. Gold Leaf Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×8 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Missions 22. Sea Slide Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×3 Total number of reachable areas.×3 		Missions
A screenshot of Gold Leaf Galaxy during the "Star Bunnies on the Hunt" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Star Bunnies on the Hunt Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Cataquack to the Skies A screenshot of Sea Slide Galaxy during "The Silver Stars of Sea Slide" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Going after Guppy Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Faster Than a Speeding Penguin
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. When It Rains, It Pours Smg icon cosmiccomet.png Cosmic Mario Forest Race Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Silver Stars of Sea Slide Smg icon cosmiccomet.png Underwater Cosmic Mario Race
Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coins in the Woods Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. The Bell on the Big Tree Smg icon purplecomet.png Purple Coins by the Seaside Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Hurry, He's Hungry
An autumnal land inhabited by Honeybees. Its largest planet mirrors the Honeyhive Kingdom. Cataquacks live on the surrounding wooden planets.
Unlock criteria: collect 34 Power Stars and complete "Darkness on the Horizon" 		An ocean galaxy with Penguins. Its largest planet a cavernous sphere with a a looping stretch of water feeding through it. There is a teardrop-shaped planet with tidal pools at the galaxy's center.
Unlock criterion: collect 36 Power Stars
23. Toy Time Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×7 Total number of reachable areas.×11 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Missions 24. Bonefin Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Mission
A screenshot of Toy Time Galaxy during the "Mario Meets Mario" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Heavy Metal Mecha-Bowser Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Mario Meets Mario SMG Kingfin Planet Overview.png Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Kingfin's Fearsome Waters
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Bouncing Down Cake Lane Smg icon speedycomet.png Fast Foes of Toy Time
Smg icon purplecomet.png Luigi's Purple Coins Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. The Flipswitch Chain
A playroom galaxy. Its planets are shaped like wooden blocks, puzzle pieces, colored pencils, and model trains. Some areas resemble cakes and other sweets. The galaxy is maintained by Gearmos, some of which are trapped within a giant tin robot.
Unlock criterion: collect 40 Power Stars 		A desolate planet with spike-like mountains. Beneath the surface is an cavernous ocean with active hydrothermal vents. The undead shark Kingfin swims in these waters. An empty Starshroom orbits the planet.
Unlock criteria: collect 55 Power Stars and complete "Giant Eel Outbreak"
25. Bowser Jr.'s Lava Reactor
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Mission File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png Sand Spiral Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×4 		Mission
A screenshot of Bowser Jr.'s Lava Reactor during "King Kaliente's Spicy Return" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. King Kaliente's Spicy Return A screenshot of Sand Spiral Galaxy during the "Choosing a Favorite Snack" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Choosing a Favorite Snack
A lava planet that looks like a red giant. Green hexagonal platforms dot the planet's surface. They sink into the lava when stepped on. King Kaliente is in the northern pole of the planet. A rocky planetoid orbits the lava reactor.
Unlock criterion: collect 45 Power Stars 		A haunted galaxy. Its primary fixture is a giant barrel filled with Boos and spiraling quicksand. A glowing moon orbited by floating, rocky paths lies at the back of the barrel. Its starting planet is a damaged airship.
Unlock criteria: complete "Luigi and the Haunted Mansion", "Faster Than a Speeding Penguin", and feed the Luma 1000 Star Bits
Model of the Garden Dome from Super Mario Galaxy The Garden
26. Deep Dark Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×6 Total number of boss battles.×3 		Missions 27. Dreadnought Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×15 Total number of boss battles.×2 		Missions
A screenshot of Deep Dark Galaxy during "The Underground Ghost Ship" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Underground Ghost Ship Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Bubble Blastoff A screenshot of Dreadnought Galaxy during the "Revenge of the Topman Tribe" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Infiltrating the Dreadnought Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Dreadnought's Colossal Cannons
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Guppy and the Underground Lake Smg icon daredevilcomet.png Ghost Ship Daredevil Run Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Revenge of the Topman Tribe Smg icon speedycomet.png Topman Tribe Speed Run
Smg icon purplecomet.png Plunder the Purple Coins Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Boo in a Box Smg icon purplecomet.png Battlestation's Purple Coins Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Dreadnought's Garbage Dump
A galaxy with uncanny planets. Its largest has a rocky beach with an underwater lake and a wrecked airship. Other planets include a deflatable replica of Gateway Galaxy and a hollow sphere containing a watermelon with billiard balls.
Unlock criteria: collect 46 Power Stars and complete "King Kaliente's Spicy Return" 		Topman battle facilities. Its largest planet is a battleship equipped with cannons. Its interior contains gravity fields. A large landing strip mounted with Ring Beamers and smaller planetoids surround the dreadnought. Some areas are obstructed by Eye Beamers.
Unlock criterion: collect 48 Power Stars
28. Matter Splatter Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×4 		Mission 29. Melty Molten Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×6 Total number of reachable areas.×12 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Missions
A screenshot of Matter Splatter Galaxy during the "Watch Your Step" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Watch Your Step A screenshot of Melty Molten Galaxy during "The Sinking Lava Spire" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Sinking Lava Spire Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Through the Meteor Storm
Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Fiery Dino Piranha Smg icon daredevilcomet.png Lava Spire Daredevil Run
Smg icon purplecomet.png Red-Hot Purple Coins Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. Burning Tide
Stone ruins within a dark void. The ruins materialize and become tangible when struck by bouncing droplets of matter. Contact is accompanied by a flash of green light.
Unlock criteria: collect 50 Power Stars and complete "Heavy Metal Mecha-Bowser" 		Severel sun-like planets undergoing extreme geothermal activity. Its starting planet experiences a volcanic eruption. Volcanic debris travels between lava pools and red dwarves at various sites. One planet has a sinking mountain called the Lava Spire, and another has a Star Ball path.
Unlock criterion: collect 52 Power Stars
File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png Snow Cap Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 		Mission
Snow Cap Galaxy A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Star Bunnies in the Snow
A capsule-shaped planet covered in fluffy snow. The snow can be displaced with the Star Cursor. Star Bunnies occur here. The starting area is a planetoid resembling a glass orb.
Unlock criterion: complete "The Sinking Lava Spire" and feed the Luma 1600 Star Bits
Rendered model of the Comet Observatory in Super Mario Galaxy. The Comet Observatory
30. Gateway Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×2 Total number of reachable areas.×5 		Missions 31. Bowser's Galaxy Reactor
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×10 Total number of boss battles.×1 		Mission
A screenshot of Gateway Galaxy during the "Grand Star Rescue" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Grand Star Rescue Red Power Star icon for use in infoboxes. Gateway's Purple Coins A screenshot of Bowser's Galaxy Reactor during "The Fate of the Universe" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Fate of the Universe
The first course of the game. Its starting planet is an ethereal sphere covered in flowers and small cottages. This sphere orbits Mario's homeworld and is frequented by Rosalina. A hollow planetoid and artificial planets covered with Goombas appear in "Grand Star Rescue".
Unlock criteria: complete the prologue (first visit); complete "King Kaliente's Spicy Return" (revisit) 		Bowser's galaxy generator at the center of the universe. It contains a series of gravity-bending traps and a system of environment planets: one covered in lava; one in ice; and one in quicksand. It orbits a great sun.
Unlock criteria: collect 60 Power Stars and complete "Darkness on the Horizon"
File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png Boo's Boneyard Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 		Mission
A screenshot of Boo's Boneyard Galaxy during the "Racing the Spooky Speedster" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Racing the Spooky Speedster
A skull-shaped planet in a starless sky. Its interior is a network of interconnected caverns navigated by the Spooky Speedster. Humerus-shaped objects orbit the planet.
Unlock criteria: complete "Gateway's Purple Coins" and feed the Luma 1200 Star Bits
Rendered model of the Planet of Trials in Super Mario Galaxy. Planet of Trials
Rolling Gizmo Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×4 		Mission Bubble Blast Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×2 		Mission
A screenshot of Rolling Gizmo Galaxy during the "Gizmos, Gears, and Gadgets" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. Gizmos, Gears, and Gadgets A screenshot of Bubble Blast Galaxy during "The Electric Labyrinth" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Electric Labyrinth
One of the Trial Galaxies. It can only be navigated via Star Ball and is similar to Rolling Green Galaxy, but it resembles a Rube Goldberg machine with many shifting platforms.
Unlock criterion: collect all 3 Green Stars 		Another Trial Galaxy, this one navigated via bubble. It is similar to Bubble Breeze Galaxy, but involves navigating a maze boardered by electric fields that destroy the bubble on impact.
Unlock criterion: collect all 3 Green Stars
Loopdeeswoop Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×6 		Mission Grand Finale Galaxy
Total number of obtainable Power Stars.×1 Total number of reachable areas.×1 		Mission
A screenshot of Loopdeswoop Galaxy during "The Galaxy's Greatest Wave" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Galaxy's Greatest Wave A screenshot of Grand Finale Galaxy during "The Star Festival" mission from Super Mario Galaxy. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. The Star Festival
A Trial Galaxy similar to Loopdeeloop Galaxy, where Ray is surfed along a watery course. This course has sharper turns, spikes, and twists that makes it more challenging than its predecessor in the Terrace.
Unlock criterion: collect all 3 Green Stars 		Princess Peach's Castle Gardens in the Mushroom Kingdom. A small village of Toads and a large lake flank the road to the castle. The locals are in the midst of celebrating the centennial Star Festival.
Unlock criteria: begin a new save file (first visit); collect 120 Power Stars as Luigi (revisit)
Level chart information and legend: Galaxies accessed from inside a dome are designated with a unique number. This number correlates with the galaxy's distance from its dome's origin, with smaller numbers being closer and larger numbers farther. It very roughly correlates with how galaxies are listed within the game's Star List. Galaxies accessed by feeding Hungry Lumas are not located within domes and are denoted by File:SMG2 Asset Sprite UI Hungry Luma.png. Trial Galaxies lack numerical designation because they are unlocked concurrently and can be accessed in any order. Three symbols convey attributes about each galaxy: Sprite of a Power Star used on the UI for Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2. denotes the total number of obtainable Power Stars; Rendered model of the Dino Piranha planet in Good Egg Galaxy from Super Mario Galaxy. denotes the total number of reachable areas; and Sprite of Bowser from the user interface (UI) of Super Mario Galaxy 2. denotes the number of boss battles. The name of each mission is accompanied by a symbol that indicates what type of mission it is and the type of Power Star obtained. Power Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. denotes a normal mission; A Grand Star icon from Super Mario Galaxy. denotes a Grand Star mission; Smg icon greenstar.png denotes a Green Star mission; Red Power Star icon for use in infoboxes. denotes a Red Star mission; Smg icon speedycomet.png denotes a Speedy Comet mission; Smg icon daredevilcomet.png denotes a Daredevil Comet mission; Smg icon cosmiccomet.png denotes a Cosmic Comet mission; Smg icon fastfoecomet.png denotes a Fast-Foe Comet mission; Smg icon purplecomet.png denotes a Purple Comet mission; and Sprite of a Secret Star used on the level selection screen (abbreviated as "LS" in the filename) for Super Mario Galaxy 2. denotes an intramissionary Secret Star.

Prankster Comets

Main article: Prankster Comet

Prankster Comets are objects that interfere with a galaxy and give it an extra attribute. The 30 Comet Stars are obtained by completing special challenges in the robust galaxies, namely speed runs; "daredevil" runs (in which Mario is defeated if he takes a single hit); races against Cosmic Mario; and doubling the speed of enemies and obstacles. They only appear after the corresponding normal mission (e.g. Ghostly Galaxy's "Beware of Bouldergeist") is completed, sometimes immediately, and at other times, only after another galaxy's level is completed. Prankster Comets appear and disappear every other time a mission is completed. After a mission is completed while a Prankster Comet is active, all the Prankster Comets are removed until a second mission is beaten. In some cases, such as in Space Junk Galaxy, all normal missions within a galaxy have to be beaten first before a comet can appear. There are two Prankster Comets in each of the 15 robust galaxies: one of the comet types just described, plus a Purple Comet where Mario must collect 100 Purple Coins. These comets only begin to appear after "The Fate of the Universe" is completed at least once. Which and where Prankster Comets appear can be manipulated by feeding Comet Tico 20 Star Bits.

The Comet Observatory

Main article: Comet Observatory
The Comet Observatory as viewed from a circular platform by the Bedroom.

The Comet Observatory is the hub world in the game. It is a bridge between domes and serves as a place for the player to rest in between missions.[5] It is a sprawling structure similar to a palace, with a tall middle spire and ornamental architecture. These attributes visually make it reminiscent of Princess Peach's Castle, the hub of Super Mario 64. The core of the observatory is a comet called the beacon that it is fueled by Power Stars. The beacon is what allows the Comet Observatory to travel through space, but it remains in orbit around Mario's home planet throughout most of the game. The observatory has two extraplanetary satellites: the Planet of Trials and a grassy platform that holds the Gate. The platform is directly anchored to the observatory via Warp Pads and can be considered a direct extension of it, unlike the Planet of Trials.

Including Gateway Galaxy, there are 9 galaxies directly accessed from the Comet Observatory. Six of these galaxies come from the Hungry Lumas affiliated with each dome. Unlike the hub worlds of Super Mario Galaxy's predecessors, there are no hidden Power Stars directly found on the observatory, though accessing the Planet of Trials, entering the Gate, and the arrival of Hungry Lumas are framed similarly. Five 1-Up Mushrooms are hidden in the observatory. Most of the observatory is obscured by darkness when Mario first arrives due to the abduction of its Power Stars and only the Terrace can be accessed. As Mario collects Power Stars, energy is restored to the observatory and new areas become lit to convey that they are now accessible. Warp Pads dot the Comet Observatory. They can be used to quickly reach adjacent locations on the hub. A Red Star appears above the Bedroom once Mario completes "Gateway's Purple Coins". Touching it transforms him into Flying Mario and allows him to soar through the skies of the observatory. There is nothing on the observatory that can harm Mario, and he will safely be transported back to solid ground if he falls of its edge.

Scene from the introductory cutscene that plays when Mario enters the library after a new chapter has been unlocked.

The Comet Observatory is a nursey ground for Lumas. They are cared for by Rosalina, who treats them as if they were her children. As light is restored to the observatory, more and more Lumas appear. It was built by Rosalina when she was a child with an apricot-colored Luma. Over time, as more Lumas arrived and needed care, she expanded its size. The Comet Observatory visits Mario's home world once every hundred years, which is celebrated in the Mushroom Kingdom as the Star Festival. When the beacon is at its maximum size, Rosalina can make the observatory fold into the shape of a rocket ship and soar through the sky like a comet. The domes are framed as an extension of the observatory that provide a view of the cosmos. Each one is themed around rooms in a house, such as the bedroom, kitchen, and so on. There are two dedicated locations similar in concept that are not domes on the observatory: the garage and the library. The garage is framed as an intergalactic repair shop that starships can dock to. This is where the Toad Brigade and Luigi establish themselves once "Bee Mario Takes Flight" and "Luigi and the Haunted Mansion", respectively, are completed.

The library is a closed off space behind the beacon that becomes accessible once "The Fiery Stronghold" is completed. Though entered like a dome, there are no galaxies here. It contains no collectibles or anything related to the rescue of Princess Peach. The are no tangible incentives for coming to the library, and the player is never forced to enter it. This is where Rosalina reads a storybook to the Lumas. New chapters become available as Mario accumulates Power Stars. The book details her personal backstory, the history of the Comet Observatory, Luma behavior, and provides insight into the past of the apricot-colored Luma that travels with Mario. This part of the game was created by Yoshiaki Koizumi and included at the discretion of Shigeru Miyamoto. Rosalina's Story is noted for its heartfelt and melancholy elements.[4][5] The illustrations on the pages have been compared to The Little Prince.[6]

References

  1. ^ a b Satoru Iwata. "Wii interviews: Super Mario Galaxy". Iwata Asks. Published 2007. Accessed 27 Feb 2021.
  2. ^ a b c Yoshiaki Koizumi. "Super Mario Galaxy: The Journey from Garden to Galaxy". Montreal International Games Summit (archived), Jan. 2007. Recorded by Eric St-Cyr. Compiled by Hover. YouTube. Published 24 Sep 2016. Accessed 27 Feb 2021.
  3. ^ a b c d Michael `Jasper` Ashworth. "How Spherical Planets Bent the Rules in Super Mario Galaxy". YouTube. Published 29 Sep 2020. Accessed 27 Feb 2021.
  4. ^ a b c Chris Kohler. "Interview: Super Mario Galaxy Director On Sneaking Stories Past Miyamoto". Wired. Published 04 Dec 2007. Accessed 27 Feb 2021.
  5. ^ a b c Jacob Geller. "The Quiet Sadness of Mario Galaxy". YouTube. Published 15 Feb 2019. Accessed 30 Jan 2021.
  6. ^ a b Ruben Aize Meintema. "Planets as small as your house: A review of Super Mario Galaxy". Eludamos: Journal for Computer Game Culture. 2010. 4(1). 125 – 128. Accessed 28 Feb 2021.
  7. ^ Nintendo. "Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017". YouTube. Published 17 Jan 2017. Accessed 30 Jan 2021.
  8. ^ Bill Trinen. "What's in a Box?". Nintendo Treehouse Log. Tumblr. Published 14 Jun 2017. Accessed 30 Jan 2021.
  9. ^ Nintendo EAD (trans. Nintendo Treehouse). "Luigi was kidnapped by the monster that lives here." – Toad Brigade Captain. "Beware of Bouldergeist". Super Mario Galaxy. Published Nov 12, 2007. Retrieved Mar 02, 2021.
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