I had this game at a 9/10 for the longest time, and now on this replay I realize that that was just pure foolishness. I've played this game so many times throughout my childhood and enjoyed the hell out of it, the level design is so fresh and Mario's moveset, while simplified from 64 and Sunshine, fits the game so perfectly and still allows for some cool tricks once you get used to it. The freedom of choice that the expanding comet observatory gives you in choosing a level is done masterfully, having tons of incredibly well designed galaxies and stars to choose from and being able to ignore stars or galaxies you don't like is simply genius game design and something that should be a staple in these types of games. The presentation of the game is also phenomonal, having an incredible sense of atmosphere in nearly every level, that is only backed by the fantastic visuals (that still hold up really well for a game from 2007) and the majestic orchestral soundtrack that I could never imagine this game without. And finally, there's the story which is something that has never been done this well in a Mario game nor do I think it will be again. The plot is the same basic setup, Bowser kidnaps Peach and Mario has to go on a long journey to save her only this time the journey is to the center of the universe and is therefore much more cinematic. As it plays out you become attached to the key character of Rosalina, a character shrouded in mystery that slowly becomes unveiled through her backstory told in the storybook in the library, as well as becoming endeared to the lumas and how sweet and selfless they are and just how much the Comet Observatory feels like a home, not just to Rosalina and them, but to you, the player. The final level and all of its accompanying cinematic cutscenes in this game are just done so right as well, the fight with Bowser is one of epic proportions and you really feel his power in this game which is unlike most other Mario games, and the scenes showing the aftermath of it and the lumas sacrificing themselves en masse to stop the universe from imploding in on itself is such a powerful and moving scene not just for a Mario game, but for any video game I've ever played. From the moment it began to when the credits roll Mario Galaxy tells a fantastical and cinematic story. Despite whether I prefer it or not, Super Mario Galaxy is a masterpiece in the medium of video games and one that deserves the universal praise and respect it gets.