How Long to Beat Super Mario Galaxy 1: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re diving into the cosmic wonders of Super Mario Galaxy and wondering how much time you’ll be spending among the stars? The answer depends entirely on your playstyle. Let’s break it down:

• Main Story Completion: If you’re focused on reaching the end credits by completing the essential levels and defeating Bowser, you’re looking at roughly 14 hours of gameplay. This assumes a reasonably efficient playthrough, prioritizing main objectives and skipping optional content.

• 100% Completion: For the completionists out there, those who crave every star, secret, and hidden challenge, prepare for a much longer journey. Achieving 100% completion in Super Mario Galaxy typically requires around 35½ hours. This involves collecting all 120 Power Stars, unlocking Luigi, and completing the special Grand Finale Galaxy.

Essentially, whether you’re a casual player looking for a fun adventure or a dedicated gamer seeking complete mastery, Super Mario Galaxy offers a compelling experience tailored to your desired time investment. Now, let’s explore some frequently asked questions to delve deeper into the game’s intricacies and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Super Mario Galaxy’s Playtime

Here are 15 of the most common questions about how long it takes to beat Super Mario Galaxy, along with detailed answers to guide your intergalactic adventure:

Is Super Mario Galaxy 1 Hard?

The difficulty of Super Mario Galaxy is surprisingly nuanced. While it’s not as brutally challenging as some other 3D Mario games, it also isn’t a complete cakewalk. The main story is generally accessible to players of varying skill levels. However, obtaining 100% completion presents more significant hurdles, especially the “Perfect Run” challenge which requires you to get through the entire Luigi’s Purple Coins level without taking a hit. Overall, it’s considered easier than games like Super Mario Sunshine or some of the more demanding entries in the 2D series.

Should I Play Mario Galaxy 1 Before 2?

Absolutely! While Super Mario Galaxy 2 refines and builds upon the original, playing the first game provides crucial context and a deeper appreciation for the sequel’s improvements. Galaxy 2 features streamlined level design and more immediate challenges, which might overshadow the innovations of the first game if experienced in reverse order. Play Galaxy 1 first to fully savor its unique blend of exploration and platforming brilliance.

How Hard Is It To 100% Mario Galaxy?

While the core gameplay is relatively forgiving, achieving 100% in Super Mario Galaxy requires dedication and patience. Many of the tasks are straightforward, but the infamous “Perfect Run” in Luigi’s Purple Coins is a significant hurdle. Many players consider this one of the toughest challenges in the game, demanding precision, planning, and a bit of luck. So while most of the game is manageable, that one specific task can really test your Mario skills.

What Mario Game Takes the Longest to Beat?

The length of time to beat a Mario game varies depending on the game genre (platformer, RPG, puzzle). According to howlongtobeat.com, some of the longest Mario games include RPG entries such as Mario & Luigi: Dream Team and Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. Also, puzzle games like Mario’s Picross and Mario’s Super Picross tend to consume a considerable amount of time. When just looking at 3D platformer games, then Super Mario Odyssey is likely going to take the longest to fully complete.

Which Mario Game Is the Hardest?

The hardest Mario game is subjective and depends on individual strengths and weaknesses. However, Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels is often cited as one of the most challenging, due to its unforgiving level design and increased difficulty. Additionally, games in the Super Mario Maker series allow players to create and share incredibly difficult levels, pushing the boundaries of Mario gameplay. Super Mario Sunshine is often considered hard, and the hardest levels require mastering the FLUDD device.

What’s the Easiest Super Mario Game?

Generally, the original Super Mario Bros. on the NES is considered one of the easiest and most accessible entries in the series. Its straightforward level design and simple mechanics make it an excellent starting point for newcomers to the Mario franchise. The game’s relative simplicity, compared to later entries, makes it a very approachable title.

What Is the Hardest Level in Mario Galaxy 1?

As mentioned previously, the most notoriously difficult level in Super Mario Galaxy is Luigi’s Purple Coins. Specifically, the level can only be completed with a Perfect Run. In this challenge, players must navigate a sprawling, 8-bit Luigi-shaped area while collecting all the purple coins without taking any damage. It requires meticulous planning, precise movements, and nerves of steel.

Are There 121 Stars in Mario Galaxy?

Yes, there are 121 stars in Super Mario Galaxy. To unlock the final 121st star, located in the Grand Finale Galaxy, players must collect all 120 stars with both Mario and Luigi. This involves beating Bowser once with Mario, and then once again with Luigi. After fulfilling these requirements, the Grand Finale Galaxy becomes accessible from the Planet of Trials.

Is Mario Galaxy Harder with Luigi?

Playing as Luigi in Super Mario Galaxy presents a unique set of challenges. While Luigi boasts superior jumping ability and running speed, his slippery handling can make precise platforming more difficult. This means that while he can reach certain areas more easily, controlling him effectively requires practice and adaptation. Many players find that Luigi makes certain sections easier, and other sections much harder.

Can You Play as Luigi in Galaxy 1?

Yes, you can unlock Luigi as a playable character in Super Mario Galaxy. To do so, you must first collect all 120 stars in the game with Mario. After defeating Bowser one more time, Luigi becomes available for use in a separate playthrough titled “Super Luigi Galaxy,” offering a slightly different experience with his unique physics.

Is Mario Galaxy 2 Longer Than 1?

While Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a more streamlined experience in terms of level access, both games are very comparable in length when focusing on the main story. Super Mario Galaxy 1 had the Dome levels that required exploring to unlock the next galaxy. By removing this feature, Super Mario Galaxy 2 gets players right to the action. Galaxy 2 also presents a greater challenge, potentially extending playtime for players seeking to master its intricacies.

Is Luigi in Super Mario Galaxy 1?

Yes, Luigi appears in Super Mario Galaxy in several forms. He can be found in various galaxies, usually needing Mario’s help. You can also unlock Luigi as a playable character after collecting all 120 stars and completing the game with Mario. He is the younger brother of Mario, so of course he makes an appearance in the game!

What Is the Hardest Boss in Mario Galaxy?

Boss difficulty is subjective, but Bouldergeist is often considered one of the most challenging bosses in Super Mario Galaxy. Its unique mechanics, requiring players to strategically remove its rocky armor, and its unpredictable attack patterns, demand patience and skillful maneuvering. Another boss that is considered difficult is Kingfin.

Does Super Mario Galaxy 1 Have Yoshi?

While Yoshi himself doesn’t directly appear in Super Mario Galaxy 1, there is a delightful nod to the beloved dinosaur. A secret planet shaped like Yoshi’s head can be found in the game, and can be used as your file picture. However, Yoshi does appear in Super Mario Galaxy 2, making him a playable character.

Is Super Mario Galaxy One of the Best Games Ever?

Absolutely! Super Mario Galaxy has garnered widespread critical acclaim and is frequently hailed as one of the best video games of all time. Its innovative gameplay, breathtaking level design, enchanting soundtrack, and overall sense of wonder have solidified its place as a true masterpiece in the platforming genre. Learn more about the impact of games on learning at the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Hopefully, this detailed guide has answered your question about how long it takes to beat Super Mario Galaxy and provided valuable insights into the game’s difficulty, unlockables, and overall experience. Now, get ready to blast off and embark on your own cosmic adventure!