Super Mario Galaxy Returns in Stunning 4K on Switch!
Journey Tribune – If you’re a true Mario fan, get ready to smile: Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are officially returning to Nintendo Switch and Switch 2! Nintendo announced this as part of Super Mario’s 40th anniversary celebrations, and honestly, it’s a long-awaited gift for fans old and new alike.
Both iconic games will arrive in a combined physical release on October 2, 2025. But don’t worry if you only want one—digital versions will be available separately. Retailers like Target have listed the combined package for around $69.99. This release is a perfect chance for longtime fans to revisit the magic and for newcomers to finally experience these legendary adventures.
The updated versions aren’t just simple ports. Nintendo is adding plenty of fresh features to enhance the experience. Most notably, graphics have been upgraded to support 4K on the Switch 2, making the galaxies look sharper and more stunning than ever. The user interface has been refreshed, a new in-game music player lets you jam to the classic soundtrack anytime, and control options are more flexible than ever. Players can choose between the classic button-and-stick setup or motion controls—the latter being a signature feature of Galaxy gameplay.
But the real star here? New pages in Rosalina’s Storybook. For those who haven’t played the original games, this in-game book tells the story of Rosalina, the mysterious space princess, and her connection to the Lumas. The new pages dive even deeper into her backstory, giving fans more insight into one of Mario’s most intriguing characters. Some speculate these story additions might even tie into The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which was also teased during the Nintendo Direct. The movie is set to premiere next spring, but Nintendo is keeping the plot under wraps for now.
For anyone who hasn’t yet played Galaxy, both games offer some of the best 3D Mario gameplay ever. The gravity-defying mechanics make each level feel unique and challenging, while the imaginative planetary designs give every stage its own personality. And unlike many other Mario games, Galaxy has a surprisingly heartfelt story, exploring Rosalina’s past and her bond with the Lumas. This combination of gameplay innovation and narrative depth is what makes these games timeless classics.
Alongside the game release, Nintendo is introducing two new Galaxy-themed amiibo. Mario & Luma grant players a Life Mushroom when scanned, while Rosalina & Lumas provide a 1-Up Mushroom. The Mario amiibo depicts him flying through a Warp Star with Luma in tow, while Rosalina is pictured reading her storybook surrounded by two Lumas. These amiibo are set to launch on April 2, 2026—around the same time the Galaxy movie is expected in theaters. There will also be a hardcover version of Rosalina’s storybook, although it won’t include the new in-game story content.
And the news doesn’t stop there. Nintendo Direct was packed with announcements, including their sponsorship of the Kyoto Marathon 2026 and a fresh design for Nintendo Museum tickets. Updates on other major franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon, and Fire Emblem were also unveiled, making it a jam-packed day for Nintendo fans.
In short, the Switch versions of Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2 aren’t just a nostalgia trip. With 4K graphics, flexible controls, extra story content, and amiibo support, these editions feel more complete than ever. Add the upcoming Galaxy movie into the mix, and Rosalina’s story comes to life in ways that fans could only dream of before. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is your chance to explore Mario’s outer space adventures in style.
Simply put, Super Mario remains a legend. Four decades later, he’s still surprising, entertaining, and taking us on unforgettable cosmic journeys. If you want the ultimate 3D Mario experience, these Switch editions of Galaxy are an absolute must-play.
