Super Mario Sunshine

(In the Sept. 2002 issue of my school paper)

It’s hard to believe that Mario, the most well known name in video games, has not starred in a platforming game in six years.  We have had our share of Mario Golf/Tennis/Papers over the years, but it’s been quite some time since Mario64, the last “real” Mario game was released. Fortunately, the latest entry by the mustached one is one of his best.

The biggest addition to the game is the water cannon/jet-pack strapped to Mario’s back.  This device allows the portly plumber to shoot water at enemies, hover in the air, propel himself like a motor boat, launch into the air, and swing himself around on telephone wires.  Considering most of his moves fall under the categories of “jump” and “dive,” Mario has an incredible amount maneuvers to pull off, and controls with spot on accuracy.  The object of the game is to collect “Shines,” which are sun shaped icons that are rewarded for completing objectives ranging from winning a race, to defeating bosses, to reaching the highest point in the level. To collect some Shines you must navigate an obstacle course without the aid of your precious jet-pack, harkening back to simpler days of platformers.

Possibly the only thing that can get in the way of the fun is objects in front of the camera. Fortunately, the game shows a silhouette of Mario whenever something obstructs your view.  I’ve found myself ignoring impeding objects, and controlling Mario through the use of the silhouette alone.  Super Mario Sunshine is exactly what fans of the series have been waiting for, and should be enjoyable and addicting to anyone who gives it a try.