If you picked up a Switch and saw Super Mario Galaxy on the eShop, you probably wonder how to get the most out of it. This guide tells you how to start, what tricks work best, and where to snag a good deal.
The game was originally a Wii launch title, but the Switch version keeps the same feel while adding smoother controls. All you need is a Switch, a Nintendo account, and a stable internet connection if you want to download it.
First, head to the Nintendo eShop, search for “Super Mario Galaxy,” and press download. The file is about 2 GB, so give it a few minutes if your internet is average.
When the game starts, you’ll see the classic opening scene with the starry sky. Use the left joystick to move Mario and the A button to jump. The Y button lets you spin, which is the key to staying in the air for longer.
One easy tip: hold ZL (or the left trigger) while you spin. This slows Mario’s spin speed and makes it easier to aim at small platforms. New Switch players often forget this and end up falling off unnecessarily.
The game’s levels are called “galaxies.” Each galaxy has a main goal and a few hidden stars. You don’t need to rush; explore each corner, because many secret stars are tucked away in hard‑to‑see spots.
Switch lets you adjust a few settings that improve the experience. Go to the Options menu and turn on “Assist Mode” if you’re new. It gives you extra lives and a slower timer, which takes the pressure off.
For visual lovers, set the TV mode to “Handheld” if you play on a TV. This makes the graphics sharper and reduces input lag.
One hidden trick many players miss is the “Star Track” shortcut. After you collect a certain number of stars, jump onto the glowing star path in the hub world. It instantly transports you to later galaxies, saving a lot of time.
Another pro tip: use the “Pause” button to access the map. The map shows which stars you’ve missed. Mark the ones you still need and focus on them one by one; it keeps you from wandering aimlessly.
If you’re hunting for the rare “Purple Comet” star, look for a hidden warp zone near the end of the “Space Junk Galaxy.” Jump into the hidden pipe, and you’ll find the star behind a set of moving platforms.
When you finish a galaxy, the game automatically saves your progress. However, you can also press the Home button and select “Save Data” to make sure you don’t lose anything if the Switch loses power.
Finally, consider buying the game during a seasonal sale. Nintendo often offers 10‑20% off, which can save a few pounds. Keep an eye on the eShop’s “Deal of the Day” banner.
With these basics, you should feel comfortable jumping into Super Mario Galaxy on Switch. Play at your own pace, try the tricks, and enjoy the star‑filled adventure.
Sep, 13 2025
Nintendo used its September 2025 Direct to officially name the sequel to the 2023 blockbuster: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. The core cast returns, and the film is dated for April 2026. Nintendo also announced a Super Mario Galaxy + Galaxy 2 bundle for Switch on October 2, 2025, as the company marks 40 years of Super Mario Bros. Cross‑gen releases will span Switch and the coming Switch 2.
