Jump into a cosmic adventure with none other than everyone's favorite plucky plumber in Super Mario Galaxy. Developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii, this delightful platform game is the third 3D installment in the Super Mario series. The game is literally a blast, as you find Mario propelled at warp speed through galactic landscapes. The magic lies in exploring gravity-defying tiny planetoids while battling familiar enemies and new extraterrestrial foes, searching for power stars as you aim to rescue Princess Peach from the malevolent clutches of Bowser. Its unique design, elegant controls, and intriguing gravity-based gameplay mechanics have catapulted this game into the echelons of the greatest games of all time.
If you find yourself captivated by Super Mario Galaxy, you'll be glad to know that the game has a sequel, Super Mario Galaxy 2, which takes all of the first game's exciting features to a stellar new level. Furthermore, various other games share thematic and mechanical similarities with Super Mario Galaxy, ranging from star-studded sequels to spin-offs, each teeming with incredible adventures that are guaranteed to keep you hooked. Whether it's harnessing gravity, conquering challenging platforms in diverse universes, or engaging in epic confrontations against formidable foes, these games are packed to the rim with the same sort of captivating adventures as Super Mario Galaxy. Explore, engage, and excite as you traverse through these thrilling spherical worlds...
25. Super Mario 3D World
Super Mario 3D World maintains much of the charm and innovative gameplay you loved about Super Mario Galaxy. Both games feature a myriad of imaginative worlds to explore with environmental puzzles to solve, enemies to defeat and stars to collect. The levels in 3D World exhibit a similar spirit of creativity and variety as in Galaxy, and both games challenge you to think in new ways about space and perspective. The power-up system, a tradition in this franchise, is also enhanced in 3D World with new additions, such as the Cat Suit that allows Mario to climb walls and scratch enemies, bringing novelty and fun to the gameplay.
What sets Super Mario 3D World apart, much like Super Mario Galaxy, is the way it revolutionizes the Mario formula. There's a clear emphasis on three-dimensional exploration reminiscent of the fully rotatable planets in Galaxy. The game also introduces multiplayer co-op for up to four players, where each chooses a distinct character with unique abilities. So it offers that distinct fusion of competition and cooperation that Galaxy had in its two-player mode. Galaxy's innovative use of gravity dynamics, spherical levels and disorienting platforming is echoed in 3D World's blend of 2D and 3D gameplay mechanics, which produce fresh challenges and discoveries at every turn.
Super Mario 3D World is available on the Wii U and Nintendo Switch, typically priced around $59.99 USD.
24. Super Mario Galaxy 2
First off, Super Mario Galaxy 2 carries over the core gameplay from Super Mario Galaxy and takes it even further. If you loved moving around a spherical landscape, using gravity to manipulate your movement and solve intriguing halo puzzles, then you'll definitely adore the sequel! Super Mario Galaxy 2 takes the gravity-defying platforming action to the next level with more planets, galaxies, and even the introduction of Yoshi into the fray. This means you get to experience more thrilling moments of weightless leaping and coming across new power-ups like a drill to tunnel through planet's surfaces!
The game also integrates a few elements that enhance the original's charm without changing its essence. It welcomes back the familiar orchestration and majestic grandiosity of the original's music score, which truly compliments those moments of flight, exploration and excitement. The level design is more inventive, incorporating bigger challenges and puzzles. Even the narrative style remains consistent- you'll still be helping our beloved Mario out of a jam and even the antagonists are synonymous with the first game! So, if you were a fan of the original's unique fusion of platforming, exploration and story-telling, you'll fall in love with Super Mario Galaxy 2.
Super Mario Galaxy 2 is available on the Nintendo Wii and Wii U, and now it's also available as part of the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection for the Nintendo Switch. It is typically priced around $20 USD.
23. Super Mario Sunshine
Super Mario Sunshine and Super Mario Galaxy, both are titles that revolutionized 3D platforming in the Super Mario series. The primary parallel between them can be experienced in their gameplay and design philosophy. Just like Super Mario Galaxy, Sunshine is rooted in exploring various environments filled with puzzles and platforming challenges. In Sunshine, Mario uses a water pump to interact with the environment in creative ways, much like how you use gravity mechanics in Galaxy. This unique tool adds an exciting layer of complexity to the traditional platforming elements making the gameplay incredibly fun and engaging, just like in Galaxy.
From a narrative standpoint, both titles also share a similar move away from the traditional "Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach" story. In Sunshine, Mario is framed for environmental pollution and has to clear his name which brings a fresh twist to the Mario plot, just like how Galaxy presents a new "rescue the star bits" narrative. You'll get to enjoy visiting various locales, including sunny beaches, haunted hotels, and lively amusement parks in Sunshine, which is similar to the variety you experienced with the different galaxies in Super Mario Galaxy. Not to forget the charming characters and infectious soundtrack - something staple to both the titles.
Super Mario Sunshine is available on the GameCube, and the Nintendo Switch as part of the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection, typically priced around $60 USD.
22. Super Mario Bros.
The sheer essence of pure, platforming fun embedded within the very DNA of Super Mario Galaxy also fuels the heart of Super Mario Bros., and it's impressive how these much older titles have influence on the modern games. Both Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Bros. are underpinned by a core of exploration and discovery, that feeling of satisfaction at overcoming complex puzzles and challenging levels which is ever present in both games. They each boast iconic art styles, memorable enemies, power-up mechanics, and characters that have stood the test of time. Experiencing the endearing, mushroom-jumping charm of Super Mario Bros. is akin to going back to Mario Galaxy's roots, where Nintendo's legendary plumber first made his bold leap into the annals of gaming history.
What truly makes these games exceptional, and so alike, is their shared commitment to innovation. They aren't just about overcoming obstacles, they're about exploring, trying out new tactics, and breaking the rules. Take the gravity-based physics of Super Mario Galaxy, for instance. This is a concept that might remind you of the imaginative, ever-changing landscapes of the mushroom kingdom presented in Super Mario Bros., where you were constantly encouraged to see what lies just beyond your current path. Both titles fundamentally alter the way you approach a level and your tactics for staying alive, all the while maintaining a pixel-perfect precision that makes you feel entirely in control.
Super Mario Bros. is available on platforms such as the Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy Color, Virtual Console (Wii, Wii U, and 3DS), and Nintendo Switch Online, typically priced around $5.99 USD.
21. Luigi's Mansion series
Just like Super Mario Galaxy that you've enjoyed, Luigi's Mansion series is packed full of adventuring, exploration, and puzzle-solving. In both games, each level in not just a simple flagpole run, they are intricate mini-worlds that are fully explorable and filled with secrets. Luigi's Mansion sharing the same studio as Super Mario Galaxy, you can feel the same passion for innovative game design and immersive world building. Expect the unexpected, as Luigi's Mansion series, like Super Mario Galaxy, does not shy away from getting creative and breaking away from classic Mario game conventions.
As far as characters go, you won't be disappointed. Luigi, the often overshadowed brother of Mario, is the star in Luigi's Mansion series. It's very reminiscent of how Mario took the center stage in Super Mario Galaxy. You'll be met with the same familiar faces and enemies but, dwelling in a spooky mansion this time. There's no shortage of charm in Luigi’s Mansion with both the gameplay and storytelling just as engaging as Super Mario Galaxy, full of quirky character interactions and comical situations that add to the overall charm of the game. Luigi, just like his brother Mario, faces big challenges, testing his courage which makes for dreamlike adventures that are unique and highly entertaining.
Luigi's Mansion series is available on Nintendo platforms, typically priced around $60 USD.
20. Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey shares many similar elements with Super Mario Galaxy that you will absolutely love. Just like Galaxy, Odyssey is a 3D platformer underpinned by whimsical aesthetics, charming storytelling, and fun characters. The gameplay is wonderfully unique, with Odyssey's signature feature offering the ability to control objects, enemies, and even areas of the environment by throwing Mario's cap on them. This comes with a variety of mechanics that keep the game fresh and exciting. The levels are brilliantly designed, full of hidden treasures to discover, puzzles to solve, and enemies to conquer, mimicking the feel of Galaxy's celestial landscapes.
Heading into a more specific analysis, Odyssey brings back the flawless and intuitive controls that made Galaxy a joy to play. The gravity-defying jumps and tight mid-air movements are here, just as you remember. However, Odyssey equally introduces new maneuvers and techniques, expanding Mario's repertoire in rewarding ways. Furthermore, the game is set in several different worlds, each with its own distinctive themes, characters, and challenges, reminiscent of Galaxy's unique planetoids. These varied environments mean that gameplay is continually fresh and exciting, with the seamless transition from one world to another recalling the joy of traveling between galaxies in Super Mario Galaxy.
Super Mario Odyssey is available on the Nintendo Switch, typically priced around $60 USD.
19. New Super Mario Bros
Both New Super Mario Bros and Super Mario Galaxy share the essential features that make a Mario game exciting, enjoyable, and entertaining. Whilst the visual presentation differs - with New Super Mario Bros taking a more classic approach to its graphics as compared to the 3D platformer style in Super Mario Galaxy - the core mechanics of platforming, power-ups, enemy encounters, and of course, the ultimate aim of saving Princess Peach remain consistent across both versions. Additionally the same charm, creativity, and humor iconic to the Super Mario franchise are present in both games, keeping the gaming experience fun, light-hearted, and engaging.
Another significant similarity between New Super Mario Bros and Super Mario Galaxy lies in the challenge they present. Both games are layered in complexity, with plenty of secrets and collectibles scattered throughout their expansive worlds, making for a memorable gaming experience. The unique level designs, boss encounters, and an array of cool power-ups also add a touch of freshness and excitement. Both Mario journeys offer a rich, immersive, and rewarding experience that builds on the charming elements of the series - something that all Mario fans would certainly appreciate - whether they are experiencing the linear journey of Mario in New Super Mario Bros, or exploring a universe as expansive as the one in Super Mario Galaxy.
New Super Mario Bros is available on the Nintendo DS, Wii, Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, typically priced around $40 USD.
18. Super Mario Maker
Super Mario Maker is a lot like Super Mario Galaxy in many ways. Both games offer wide-ranging levels with challenging terrains, enemy characters, and puzzles. In Super Mario Maker, just like in Galaxy, you have to use your skills and quickly react to complete the level as Mario - except, this time, the canvas is broader. Not only can you play in different environments styled after various classic Mario games, but you can also construct your own levels. Think of it like taking the creative, dynamic level design of Galaxy and putting the power entirely in your hands. It excels at delivering that nostalgia and familiarity, but with the innovative twist of the level creation feature.
Moreover, Super Mario Maker extends the idea of gravity physics, initially introduced in Super Mario Galaxy. It allows players to create their own gravity-defying levels similar to what you experienced in Galaxy. If you enjoyed the distinct, immersive physics of Galaxy, then you will be able to nudge that fantastic concept to the extreme in Maker. It also shares Galaxy's sense of community by allowing players to share their levels online for others around the globe to attempt and enjoy. You can not only play, but also appreciate the creative genius of other gamers, and even learn from them to imbibe new ideas into your levels.
Super Mario Maker is available on Nintendo Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, typically priced around $40 USD.
17. Kirby's Epic Yarn
Just like in Super Mario Galaxy, Kirby's Epic Yarn introduces a new and innovative game mechanic that changes the way you interact with the game world. While Galaxy has gravity-defying planetoids, Epic Yarn presents a world entirely made of fabric and craft materials. Kirby and everything around him is made of yarn, threads, buttons, and beads, which has a profound effect on game mechanics. Kirby can transform into various forms like a car, a submarine, or a UFO, similar to Mario's different transformations in Galaxy. The levels are beautifully designed and are brimming with creativity as in Super Mario Galaxy.
The gameplay in Kirby's Epic Yarn will remind you of Super Mario Galaxy's puzzle-centric level design. Just like how you explored a labyrinth of planets with varying gravity in Galaxy, Kirby's Epic Yarn will have you exploring a craft-world landscape with fabric-based contraptions and puzzles. You'll unpick buttons, unzip zippers, and pull stray threads to reveal new paths. The co-op mechanics make it even more fun in Kirby's case, just like the two player dynamic in Super Mario Galaxy. Both have excellently composed orchestral soundtracks that will resonate with you long after playing.
Kirby's Epic Yarn is available on Nintendo Wii and Nintendo 3DS, and is typically priced around $20 USD.
16. Donkey Kong Country Returns
Just like Super Mario Galaxy, Donkey Kong Country Returns boasts beautifully designed, diverse environments which are a feast for the eyes. Each level of the game has its own unique themes, challenges, and aesthetics, coupled with impressive 2.5D graphics that almost pop out of the screen. And the most important similarity is the depth of the gameplay - just as Super Mario Galaxy requires thoughtful navigation, strategy and timing, Donkey Kong Country Returns offers deceptively simple controls that are easy to learn but tough to master. It's not about just getting from point A to B, but collecting all the items in between, which further a somewhat non-linear exploration of the platforming levels.
Now, onto the differences that make DKCR exciting in its own way. While Super Mario Galaxy had a more space-faring, cosmic theme, Donkey Kong Country Returns brings you back to a classic jungle adventure with our beloved ape and his chimpanzee sidekick. Their mission? To retrieve their banana hoard from the clutches of the nefarious Tiki Tak Tribe. To do that, they'll run, jump, climb, ride mine carts, and even blast out of barrel canons, just like the good old times. The game also has a unique cooperative multiplayer feature where a second player can join in as Diddy Kong, offering a completely different game experience. This addition of cooperative gameplay, the nostalgic feelings the game evokes, combined with modern graphics and gameplay mechanics, put Donkey Kong Country Returns firmly in the same realm of exceptional gaming experiences as Super Mario Galaxy.
Donkey Kong Country Returns is available on Nintendo Wii, Nintendo 3DS, and the Wii U's Virtual Console, typically priced around $20 USD.
15. Yoshi's Woolly World
Yoshi's Woolly World shares many familiar elements with Super Mario Galaxy, which you've enjoyed, but it also brings its own unique charm to the table. Like Super Mario Galaxy, Woolly World is a platformer and places a significant emphasis on exploration. Each level is ingeniously designed with multiple paths and secret areas, encouraging you to delve into its intricacies. There's the familiar power-up system and timeless mechanics such as jumping and running, but Yoshi's abilities, such as flutter jumps and yarn ball throwing, add a fun twist to them, offering new ways to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.
Aesthetically, Yoshi's Woolly World is as vividly imaginative as Super Mario Galaxy. While Galaxy took you through a universe of celestial magic, Woolly World immerses you in a delightful, yarn-adorned universe full of whimsy and heart. The soft, yarn-themed visuals provide a captivating contrast to the intense, action-packed gameplay, much like Super Mario Galaxy's serene galaxies were the stage for epic, cosmic battles. The soundtrack of Woolly World is also a treat to the ears. It's upbeat, cheerful and fits perfectly with the game's tone, much like the symphonic pieces of Super Mario Galaxy did.
Yoshi's Woolly World is available on Wii U and the Nintendo 3DS, typically priced around $40 USD.
14. Sonic the Hedgehog series
Among games similar to Super Mario Galaxy, Sonic the Hedgehog series has always stood strong due to its distinct platforming elements. Like Super Mario Galaxy, Sonic games involve navigating through a colorful, vibrant world filled with all kinds of platforms and obstacles. Each game's world is designed with unique architectural features and challenges that encourage exploration and agility, much like Super Mario's galaxy hopping adventure. Sonic games offer shifting terrains, loop-the-loops, and high-speed chases that will remind you of the gravity-defying leaps and stellar adventures in Super Mario Galaxy.
The Sonic series also offers a lively cast of characters, akin to the diverse roster in Super Mario Galaxy. Sonic, the cool, speed-loving hero of these games, brings his own unique charm and abilities compared to our plumbing friend Mario. His speeds and unique acrobatics create a whole new, exhilarating rhythm to defeating foes and moving through the world, much like the distinct strategy required for navigating Mario's shifting galaxies. Similarly, Sonic games involve solving puzzles, defeating bosses, and power-up usage that tap into the same satisfaction points as Super Mario Galaxy. Just like in Galaxy, the Sonic series mixes familiar nostalgic elements from earlier titles with innovative new gameplay dynamics, creating a game that's just as engaging and challenging.
Sonic the Hedgehog series is available on a variety of platforms, including Playstation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, typically priced around $20 USD.
13. Crash Bandicoot series
The Crash Bandicoot series offers a gaming experience that echoes the fun and challenging elements you enjoyed in Super Mario Galaxy. For instance, both games feature unique and colorful environments which you traverse in a semi-linear fashion. In Crash Bandicoot, much like Mario, you hop across platforms, dodging obstacles and enemies to reach the end of each level. The games have creative and diverse terrain, and each new level introduces fresh challenges that keep gameplay exciting and engaging.
Similarly to Super Mario Galaxy, Crash Bandicoot also leans heavily on collection and exploration. In Crash Bandicoot, you'll be tasked with collecting Wumpa fruits, akin to collecting star bits in Super Mario Galaxy. The games both encourage exploration of the stunningly crafted levels offering bonus areas and secrets that add to replayability. Boss fights are also a shared feature, with both games presenting players with imaginative and challenging boss battles that require strategy and finesse to conquer.
Crash Bandicoot series is available on multiple platforms including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, typically priced around $40 USD.
12. Super Mario 3D Land
Super Mario 3D Land offers a gameplay that is very similar to Super Mario Galaxy, combining new and old elements of the franchise much like the Galaxy games. Just like in Super Mario Galaxy where you can unlock new levels upon obtaining certain numbers of stars, in 3D Land, you have to collect a certain amount of Star Medals to reach another stimulating level. Moreover, as in Galaxy series, 3D Land also has plenty of gravity-based puzzles and platform jumps. They're not as trippy as Mario Galaxy's planet-hopping but they offer a lot of unique platforming challenges.
Super Mario 3D Land incorporates a lot of power-ups just like Super Mario Galaxy did. The plethora of cool suits like the Boomerang Flower, Propeller Box, and the return of the classic Tanooki Suit, a raccoon tail that lets Mario float through the air, adds to the charm, joy and depth of the game. The control scheme also feels similar; you can run, jump, duck, and do all of Mario's signature moves that were present in Mario Galaxy. The game also gives players a feeling of depth by allowing them to explore deeper in order to find hidden points, much like you could venture on planets in Mario Galaxy. All in all, it delivers the same level of quality platforming, charm, compact design and polish that you must have loved in Super Mario Galaxy.
Super Mario 3D Land is available on Nintendo 3DS, typically priced around $20 USD.
11. Pikmin series
Just like Super Mario Galaxy, Pikmin series also offers a unique exploration experience in a whimsical and vibrant universe. Both games deploy a concept of planet-hopping, letting you explore various creatively designed worlds filled with puzzles and challenges. In the Pikmin series, you can command a horde of colourful creatures, just like how Mario commands Lumas in Super Mario Galaxy. You interact with the environment in both games, using your allies (Pikmin or Lumas) to overcome obstacles, which is a key similarity.
In regard to gameplay and aesthetics, both games share similarities too. Pikmin, like Super Mario Galaxy, has serene, eccentric, and immersive vibrant settings, making exploration exciting and adventurous. The music in both games is also designed to enhance the charm of the environment. Pikmin has an equal balance of both peaceful tranquillity and frantic problem-solving just like Mario Galaxy. Additionally, the Pikmin series emphasizes on resource management and strategy, adding a new layer of challenge and depth, while still maintaining fun and charm like in Super Mario Galaxy.
The Pikmin series is available on multiple platforms including GameCube, Wii, Wii U and Nintendo Switch, typically priced around $60 USD.
10. Rayman Legends
Just like Super Mario Galaxy, Rayman Legends is a platform game with vibrant artwork and engaging levels. The both games feature similar mechanics, like running, jumping, smashing, and solving puzzles to advance through each stage. The colorful and whimsical art style of Rayman Legends is reminiscent of Galaxy's imaginative level design. Rayman Legends also shares the concept of collecting, similar to the Star Bits in Super Mario Galaxy, amassing Lums - the game's form of currency - is a part of the journey.
Moreover, the cooperative multiplayer gameplay of Rayman Legends is akin to the two-player mode in Super Mario Galaxy. Although the second player in Galaxy provides more of a support role, both games facilitate a fun shared gaming experience. Intense boss battles are a shared aspect of both games, with epic and challenging fights that keep you on the edge of your seat, just like you'd experience in Super Mario Galaxy. Underneath the friendly visuals, both games pose a substantial, but gratifying, challenge to hardcore gamers.
Rayman Legends is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, typically priced around $20 USD.
9. Rayman Origins
Rayman Origins, just like Super Mario Galaxy, hits the ground running with its colorful and vibrant graphics, intuitive controls, and dynamic environment design. Both offer you whimsical worlds filled with delightful characters, intricate levels, challenging platforms, and a variety of secret locations that add an engaging layer of exploration and discovery to the game. They also possess an incredible charm and humor that will capture your attention and brighten your gaming experience. The rhythm-based gameplay combined with the co-op multiplayer option in Rayman Origins brings a different twist compared to its Mario counterpart, but it is just as amusing and entertaining.
The two games also excel in their artistic presentation. Rayman Origins dazzles with its vivid and stunning hand-drawn artwork that breathes a unique life into every level, much like the beautifully rendered 3D environments of Super Mario Galaxy. Furthermore, both offer a delightful mix of challenging yet engaging physics-based puzzles that will test your skills and wits. Although they may be different in aesthetic and style, Rayman Origins shares the same spirit of creativity, fun, and innovation as Super Mario Galaxy, guaranteeing an equally enjoyable gaming journey.
Rayman Origins is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Wii, Nintendo 3DS, and PC, typically priced around $19.99 USD.
8. Banjo-Kazooie series
If you loved Super Mario Galaxy, then you'll definitely dig the Banjo-Kazooie series. Just like Super Mario Galaxy, Banjo-Kazooie is packed with wonderfully vibrant and varied levels, each filled with a multitude of challenges and collectibles, ensuring that exploratory journey never feels dull. Both games are splendid 3D platformers, boasting enjoyable and intuitive controls, as well as a cast of quirky, memorable characters. If you revel in finding secret pathways, perfecting tricky jumps, and solving light puzzles, then Banjo-Kazooie is right up your alley!
The core mechanics of these two games also share uncanny similarities. In Super Mario Galaxy, the power stars are your primary objective. Similarly, in Banjo-Kazooie, the game's progress relies on collecting musical notes and jigsaw pieces known as “Jiggies”. The creative level design of both games keeps every minute engaging. It's safe to say that if you enjoy the thrill of the chase that Super Mario Galaxy offers, you’ll appreciate the similar sense of achievement that accompanies each new discovery in Banjo-Kazooie!
Banjo-Kazooie is available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo 64, typically priced around $20 USD.
7. Spyro the Dragon series
If you're a fan of Super Mario Galaxy, then Spyro the Dragon is a great pick for you. Just like Super Mario Galaxy, Spyro encompasses a broad variety of vibrant worlds that you can explore with plenty of collectibles to gather. Both games will give you the thrill of platform-based challenges, and they skillfully keep you engaged throughout the gameplay with their unique level designs and intriguing narratives. What's notable is the emphasis on exploration in Spyro games, which is somewhat akin to the vast galaxies you'd traverse in Super Mario Galaxy.
Furthering the similarities, both games are bright and colorful, drawing gamers into an enchanting world fueled by imagination. The enemies, though different in aesthetics, all require quick wit and appropriate timing to defeat, which has been a crucial part of Super Mario Galaxy. The gliding mechanic Spyro employs is akin to some of the gravity-defying leaps and bounds made by Mario, which adds an extra layer of excitement. Most importantly, in both games, the controls are smooth, complementing the upbeat, action-packed atmosphere set by the vibrant graphics and playful music.
Spyro Trilogy is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC, typically priced around $40 USD.
6. Ratchet & Clank series
If you're a fan of Super Mario Galaxy and you're seeking more fun-filled, action-packed gaming experiences, the Ratchet & Clank series could be your next perfect match. One way the Ratchet & Clank series feels similar to Super Mario Galaxy is their shared emphasis on creative and diverse level design. Just as Mario jets off to a myriad of whimsical planets, Ratchet & Clank travel to a plethora of unique planets, each with its own distinct feel and gameplay mechanics. From bustling metropolises to wild alien jungles, there's always a new world to explore, and much like Super Mario Galaxy, each level is full of hidden surprises to uncover and unique challenges to overcome.
Ratchet & Clank also mirrors Super Mario Galaxy in its fusion of platforming and combat. Much like jumping and stomping on enemies is a staple in Super Mario Galaxy, platforming and blasting alien adversaries is integral to the Ratchet & Clank experience. Fans of the power-ups and pick-ups in Super Mario Galaxy will also appreciate the wide array of inventive and powerful weapons available in Ratchet & Clank. These include everything from the Groovitron, a disco ball that forces enemies to dance uncontrollably, to the Sheepinator, which transforms enemies into harmless sheep. This blending of platforming and combat keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging while maintaining a similar pace and energy to Super Mario Galaxy.
The Ratchet & Clank series is available on PlayStation platforms, typically priced around $15-20 USD.
5. The Legend of Zelda series
The Legend of Zelda series, like Super Mario Galaxy, is loaded with intriguing puzzles, action-packed sequences, and constantly changing worlds that demand exploration. If one of the things you appreciated about Mario Galaxy was the innovative gameplay and figuring out the mechanics to progress through levels, then Zelda is worth a look. Each game introduces new tools for players to discover and master, and each level is designed to challenge your creativity. What's more, just like the Galaxy, the Zelda universe is teeming with colorful characters that provide a charming and vibrant atmosphere.
Regarding the story, the tailoring of these narratives is an art form The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Galaxy share. No two Zelda games have the exact same plot, just as each Galaxy game had its own unique story. Instead, they all operate within the same broad narratives and themes, similar to Mario's everlasting mission to rescue Princess Peach in various scenarios. Zelda often portrays a more complex narrative, typically revolving around the hero, Link, preventing the villain, Ganon, from obtaining the sacred Triforce. This richer storyline often leads to a more immersive and emotional gaming adventure, an improvement that arose from the broader storyline development in the Galaxy series.
The Legend of Zelda series is available on multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Wii, Wii U, and Switch, typically priced around $60 USD.
4. Ori and the Blind Forest
One of the elements that makes Ori and the Blind Forest reminiscent of Super Mario Galaxy is its enchanting world, filled with lots of exploration and puzzles. Like Super Mario Galaxy, Ori and the Blind Forest offers a visually stunning universe that is exciting and intriguing to navigate. The game is set in a magical forest, each corner bursting with colour and vibrancy, along with platform scenarios you would have loved in Super Mario. Added to this, the game handsomely rewards exploration; hidden areas and side quests teaching new skills and abilities, similar to finding Power Stars and clearing galaxies in Super Mario Galaxy.
Apart from the captivating platforming element, the gameplay mechanics in Ori and the Blind Forest also bear resemblance to Super Mario Galaxy. While Mario can spin, triple jump, and perform other moves to navigate through diverse galaxies, Ori, the game's protagonist, has its abilities like double jump, charge flame, and bash all utilized ingeniously to traverse through unique levels. The game mechanics are designed to be fluid and intuitive, matching the seamless controls in Super Mario Galaxy. Importantly, like Super Mario Galaxy, Ori and the Blind Forest emphasises timing, precision, and leverage of special abilities to clear challenges and to advance in the game.
Ori and the Blind Forest is available on Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PCs, typically priced around $19.99 USD.
3. Little Big Planet series
If you loved Super Mario Galaxy, I'm confident you'll enjoy the Little Big Planet series. Right off the bat, the playful aesthetics and whimsical design are a delightful common feature both games share. Like Super Mario Galaxy, Little Big Planet offers a wonderfully creative universe, beautifully rendered graphics, and highly imaginative levels, which brings the same joy of exploration. They both have platform gaming that includes running, jumping and surviving through various obstacles and enemies. While Mario Galaxy's unique feature was its gravity-defying mechanics, Little Big Planet sets itself apart with its flexible design toolkit, which allows players to create and share their levels, meaning an endless supply of user-generated content to enjoy.
Furthermore, the Little Big Planet series also shares the cooperative multiplayer dynamics seen in Super Mario Galaxy. Both games allow second players to join in the action and assist, either by collecting items or solving puzzles, which makes for a fun shared gaming experience. Some would say Little Big Planet takes this cooperative gameplay to another level with mechanics requiring teamwork among more than two players to surpass obstacles in some levels. In terms of difficulty too, both games scale up skill-levels gradually, ensuring newer players are not overwhelmed. So, while Little Big Planet might not send you spinning into space, it's just as much of a thrilling and fun-filled journey as Super Mario Galaxy.
The Little Big Planet series is available on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation Vita, typically priced around $20 USD.
2. A Hat in Time
A Hat in Time will certainly resonate with fans of Super Mario Galaxy, as it creates a similar 3D platforming experience brimming with charm, imagination, and jolly fun. Just like in Super Mario Galaxy, in A Hat in Time, you'll be traversing through various unique and distinct worlds, each packed with exciting challenges, puzzles, and collectibles. You'll control Hat Kid, a quirky little character who uses her special abilities, primarily stemming from different hats (hence the title), to tackle obstacles and enemies – a mechanic reminiscent of Mario changing his outfits and forms to gain new abilities in the Galaxy series.
The vibrant, effect-laden visuals in A Hat in Time are conspicuously Galaxy-esque, with the game's rich, splendid color palette shining through every corner of its beautifully rendered worlds. The level designs are not just pleasing to the eye but also ingeniously crafted, demanding careful exploration and sleuthing, much like the solar systems in Super Mario Galaxy. Furthermore, the boss battles in A Hat in Time are equally epic and strategic as in Galaxy, and the game's lighthearted tone and humour add a layer of fun that further enhances the gameplay experience. Complete with earworm tunes that could rival Koji Kondo's iconic scores, A Hat in Time perfectly captures the effervescence and whimsy characteristic of Super Mario Galaxy.
A Hat in Time is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, typically priced around $30 USD.
1. Jak and Daxter series
The Jak and Daxter series shares some defining characteristics with Super Mario Galaxy that make it worth considering. Just like Super Mario Galaxy, Jak and Daxter is a platformer at its core, blending elements of puzzle-solving with skill-based action in a rich and creative world. Both games feature a likeable and heroic character teamed with a smaller, less capable but equally important sidekick. They share a sense of camaraderie and the importance of teamwork to overcome obstacles and fend off a quirky array of enemies. The relationship between Jak and Daxter, the breathtaking visuals, and engaging storytelling mimic the bond between Mario and Luigi, the aesthetics, and immersive narratives familiar to fans of Super Mario Galaxy.
The technological innovation in Jak and Daxter is similar to that of Super Mario Galaxy. Each level in Jak and Daxter is designed to challenge the player in different ways, pushing their skills to the limit. The series also focuses on pick-ups and power-ups, like Super Mario Galaxy, which give the characters unique abilities to defeat enemies and negotiate environments. The control schemes in these series are user-friendly and immersive, keeping players engaged and eager to progress. Both series also maintain a sense of humor throughout, keeping the charm and entertainment factor high, much like you'd expect from a Super Mario Galaxy game.
The complete Jak and Daxter series is available on PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation 4, typically priced around $15 to $20 USD.
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