If you plan to play both, start with Super Mario Galaxy, then play Super Mario Galaxy 2. The first adventure introduces Rosalina and the Comet Observatory; the sequel shifts the focus to Yoshi and Starship Mario. You can play the sequel first if that setup appeals more, but the original makes the more natural starting point.
How the two games differ
Both are 3D platform adventures about exploring galaxies and collecting Power Stars. Nintendo presents them as two interstellar adventures, but gives each a distinct story frame and featured companion.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 (European version ) | $55.49 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
![Super Mario Galaxy Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/512wQ+fsf6L._SL160_.jpg)
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Super Mario Galaxy Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
![Super Mario Galaxy 2 Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41hw5cZ37FL._SL160_.jpg)
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Super Mario Galaxy 2 Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Game | Story framing and hub | Featured companion |
|---|---|---|
| Super Mario Galaxy | Mario sets out to rescue Princess Peach and recover stolen Power Stars, with Rosalina and the Comet Observatory at the center of the adventure. | Rosalina and the Lumas are prominent. |
| Super Mario Galaxy 2 | Mario again sets out to rescue Peach, this time traveling across the universe aboard Starship Mario. | Yoshi joins Mario. |
These are differences in premise and featured elements, not proof that one game is objectively better or harder. Pick based on which adventure sounds more appealing.
Which one should you play first?
If you want to play both
Play Super Mario Galaxy first, then Super Mario Galaxy 2. Rosalina and the Comet Observatory provide an introduction to the pair before the sequel brings in Yoshi and Starship Mario.
#1 Best Overall
- Explore the galaxy in two classic games Travel the stars with Mario in enhanced versions of these beloved adventures—coming soon to the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2!
- Super Mario Galaxy Mario meets Rosalina in this star-studded adventure. In Super Mario Galaxy, Mario must rescue Princess Peach and recover the stolen Power Stars from Bowser.
- Super MarioGalaxy 2 Mario teams up with an old friend and travels to different worlds on Starship Mario! In Super Mario Galaxy 2, Mario is once again called upon to rescue his friend, Princess Peach. This time, he teams up with Yoshi and travels across the universe in Starship Mario, a flying vessel shaped like Mario’s head!
- A free update will be available for the Nintendo Switch 2! Enjoy the game at 4K resolution in TV mode or 1080p in Handheld and Tabletop mode.* *4K resolution and 120 fps are available in supported games and require a compatible display. Frame rates capped at 60 fps for 4K output.
If you only want to play one
- Choose Super Mario Galaxy if Rosalina and the Comet Observatory are the more appealing setting and story frame.
- Choose Super Mario Galaxy 2 if you would rather team up with Yoshi and travel aboard Starship Mario.
Can you play Galaxy 2 first?
Yes. The official descriptions give the games distinct premises, so the sequel’s setup can stand on its own as a choice. Playing the original first is a recommendation for the order of the pair, not a requirement.
How to play them on Nintendo Switch
Nintendo’s combined Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 release arrived on Nintendo Switch on 2 October 2025. Nintendo lists both a download version and a Nintendo Switch game card. Availability and pricing may vary by region and retailer.
Rank #2
- Enhance your adventure even further with a free update to take advantage of the processing power of Nintendo Switch 2!
Nintendo lists upgraded visuals for both games, Assist Mode, additional storybook content, and an in-game soundtrack player with 154 tracks on its product page accessed in 2026. Assist Mode can give Mario more health, heal him while he stands still, and return him to solid ground after a fall into space.
On Nintendo Switch 2, a free update provides 4K resolution in TV mode and 1080p in handheld and tabletop modes. Nintendo also describes an improved user interface and a choice between button-and-stick controls and motion controls.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Enhance your adventure even further with a free update to take advantage of the processing power of Nintendo Switch 2!
Playing together and accessibility options
Both games support local Co-Star Mode, in which a second player can help by collecting Star Bits, shaking bushes, or firing Star Bits at enemies. Nintendo provides setup instructions for Switch and Switch 2. The controller setup depends on what you already own; an extra Joy-Con may be useful, but it is not automatically required for every player.
The Switch release also includes Assist Mode for players who want the specific support it offers, including extra health and help recovering after a fall into space.
Quick Recap
Sources
- Nintendo: Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 product page
- Nintendo Support: Co-Star Mode setup instructions
- Nintendo: September 2025 announcement
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
