@@blackdot105 I’d say so. Galaxy 1’s level design is a little confused, they make these pseudo sandbox levels that you return to 5 or 6 times but each star mission is super linear and there isn’t really any inertia in the movement to make that kind of progression satisfying. Galaxy 2 embraces the linearity with more levels that you visit fewer times and better movement options through Yoshi and the new power ups. Galaxy 1 levels aren’t bad at all but I think Galaxy 2 is at least an improvement. That being said I like Galaxy 1 a lot more, and the biggest thing that sticks out to me are the vibes. It’s got a beautiful quiet sadness like the op said.
I used to be captivated by the backgrounds in this game. Like, look at those stars at the bottom of the skybox. What _are_ they? A city? A galaxy? A giant festival? These are the sort of things that don't go through my head anymore as an adult.
Well I Encourage You To Get Into The Habit Of Doing That Again! Even If You Aren't Thinking Up Answers To Your Questions As Much Anymore You Should *Absolutely* Question Small Things Like That Again! Who Knows? It Might Lead To Some Nice Conversations With Others!
It is hard to continue to "dream" about things of this nature as an adult... because when you are a child, you have not deeply integrated a structure of what the real world is and is not, so you are more free to imagine what things may be and make unique connections. But it is important to remember that the concepts that fascinated you about this thing in particular are abstractions of something that was experienced by an artist or developer who worked on this title. I believe the quality to keep in mind that relates directly to this is "openness," and if you can foster that openness, I think you can continue to make those abstract connections and maintain a sense of creativity and mystery.
Another amazing thing about the Tubes is they also act as guides to each zone. As I kid id always forget where the engine room and garden were so I always just followed the tubes and they always got me there
I loved Rosalinas observatory SO MUCH it's my favorite hubworld in a game I've played! The music, the secrets, and the atmosphere were just perfection. The way it opens up was always so cool
2:41 Damn, I already knew the tubes were there, but I didn't realize they were visible under the glass. It's so cool how they implemented in universe what could have simply been some lines to help the player reach the domes. The only thing I dislike about the observatory is how it only has downwards gravity, there's that Y shaped planet but I wish you could go to the underside of the observatory or something.
I think someone did(or at least modded the game to where you can use a special power up that can be used after you unlock it in a purple coin level and visit but I don’t remember
The whole thing about not showing galaxies from the hub is they are supposed to be millions of miles apart as things in outer space tend to be. Now it would totally make sense to be able to see the other galaxies in each room from the levels and have them be tiny textures to really sell how huge the universe is. They also could have them visible from the observatory though by having these wormhole looking things appear with each new room powered and then have little png's of each galaxy visible within the wormhole, because that's the whole premise. Each room is basically creating wormhole to let you visit a solar system even further away.
I'm not sure how much sense being able to see other planets and galaxies from the observatory would make sense from a physics standpoint as if Earth is any indication they'd show up as small circles at the largest and small lights at the smallest. But a telescope could work
@@zoomzike you could probably get someone to make a mod for you that makes visible galaxies as rings showing the different planets in them but as a spinning, 2d texture at a slight tilt to make it seem 3d. it would probably be one of the biggest computing resource efficiency - enjoyment factor ratios in history.
Rosalina’s Observatory was honestly so nice! It was so great how more instruments were brought into the theme as you unlocked more and more of the observatory, the music is just too good. And of course, I have my own childhood bias with this game since I used to spend HOURS playing it and sitting in the observatory. Man, I miss this game!
Listening to a grown man gush about the comet observatory was.... Amazing. It was like having my childhood memories read back to me from a storybook. You've taken everything my child mind loved about the observatory and made it into such a wonderful video!
Fun Fact, Yoshiaki Koizumi, the director of Super Mario Galaxy, had stayed up late in the night while no one was around developing Rosalina's story so that no one had a clue about it. He then showed it to Miyamoto, who was taken by surprise. Another cool fact is that a channel called T-Time had created a real copy of Rosalina's story book.
Also. Unlocking the red star power-up that lets you fly. First off, sick color scheme (you know, classic kid stuff, red and black always looks cool), and secondly, FLYING. Yeah it was a bit janky but I couldn't care less, as a kid this was the coolest thing to move around flying everywhere. And the track accompagnying it was cool too.
I feel like ZoomZike's videos represent feelings and/or nostalgia of things we all cared about and subjects we all hold close to our heart but he is the one who is taking all of our feelings and putting it into video form. Thank you for showcasing what many of us feel
The tubes are so nice. I love how they also function like a little guide on 'here's how you get to the next dome'. And oof... sticker star flashbacks...
Oh my god! I can almost see it in front of my eyes to the point that it feels weird that it's not a thing! Having Lumas going around doing all sorts of things would be INSANE! Some maybe sitting on the grass and relaxing, some playfully running all over the place together, some just sleeping in cozy places like on top of the Bedroom dome, some striking pleasant conversations with Toads! That amount of activity would really make the Observatory feel incredibly colorful!
Don’t mind me, just making comments as I watch the video. The menu behind Rosalina also shows where there are current prankster comets, making it even better. Something about the water on the sides of the fountain just flowing off the edge into nothingness is off-putting, probably because there’s somehow an unlimited water source in my space Mario game. The idea of Rosalina personally saving me when I fall makes me feel bad for constantly trying and failing to do cool tricks in which I end up falling. It must be difficult accessing cupboards behind the staircase. Also those are some massive plates, cups, and utensils. I always thought of the library outside to be like some chill lounge. Shoutouts to the yellow luma next to the garage. I loved how the garden looked like an open field. It’s a neat illusion. Yeah the Mario Galaxy stage selection is great. (glances toward Galaxy 2) I think it would be cool if the bigger galaxies when you get all the stars and the hungry luma galaxies when you unlock them appeared in the distant background. I find it funny how you have to unlock Rosalina’s bedroom. It makes me think that while Mario went on these journeys before unlocking the bedroom, Rosalina just had to sleep outside. Same with the kitchen, because you have the plates and everything, but you can’t cook because the kitchen is locked. Ok now I’m wondering how the Observatory operated without access to the Engine Room. Is each room just locked, or do the rooms also have no power? The green star trial planet just looks off. It’s like there should be something on the opposite side of the pipe, like a reward for completing all three trials.
Since you actually brought up in-universe explanations for some things, I just like to compliment the feat of engineering! Seriously, Rosalina pretty much led the entire construction, and based on the storybook, she was still a teenager when she started. Not to mention the fact that she helped repair a much smaller ship while she was still on Earth. Over the years, she managed to turn a small comet that she landed on into a tri-engine fusion-powered FTL-capable spacecraft with complete living facilities. From what I remember, Mario Kart hinted that she has a thing for motorcycles, and honestly? It's not that surprising giving that she's a skilled enough engineer behind that dress to build _this_ thing.
Another really cool attention to detail I grew to love about the Observatory is the fact that the teleporters actually change their beams' color depending on what color the tube connecting to them was (aka Fountain is Blue, Garden is Pink, etc). It's honestly details like this that, in my opinion, make Mario Galaxy something quite special.
i've never realized until now that the green part on the spiral to the kitchen was a tablecloth and not grass. always fun to learn new things about your favorite game, i suppose!
One thing I love about the level select in the game is how the boss galaxies always have an odd orbit from the others as if they were artificially made into orbit. It’s a really cool detail.
I would spend hours on end just taking in the beauty of the comet observatory. They struck this perfect balance between ethereal and fun, a place filled with life that was somehow also surrounded in the cold vast of space itself. Rosalina and Luma always felt like these kind friends and family that you just want to be surrounded by. The story book area feels so warm and cozy, but then you're struck with this somber heartbreak when you learn about Rosalina's past. The music has been stuck in my brain for the longest time, it's so beautiful yet rather simple. Even the rooms themselves are filled with personality. I can't gush enough how much I adore it
"oh whats so special about a couple of tubes?, its that they TRIED" that line hits so close to home nowadays. you rarely get that not just attention to detail but a loving attention to detail anymore
I played through Galaxy 2 once many years ago, and have played little snippets of 1, but not an actual complete playthrough. While I don't have many memories of the Observatory myself, the place does intrigue me, more so than the Mario ship in the sequel. In particular the garden, it just looks super chill.
Though it’s not quite to the same level as what would be really cool, there are a few Lumas (whom are too high above the ground to interact with) who float around the observatory. When they meet up with another Luma, they chat for a bit, and when they’re done, they say goodbye and go on their merry way. It’s nothing to the same level as what Delfino Plaza brings us, but it’s cool nonetheless.
I don’t remember much about my childhood but I remember this endless fascination from powering up the observatory, chasing the tubes to their respective domains, listening to the music build on itself, and eventually just flying around with the red star. It was all just so magical and i loved it
i really love the observatory it’s like a home away from home for me. Super mario Galaxy 2 can never be as good since the lack of the observatory. one of the best games i’ve ever played
The first area you looked into, yeah that's the bridge. In the cutscene where Rosalina flies to the center of the universe, she uses this platform to extend a bridge out for Mario/Luigi to enter Peach's Palace. I guess you could say, if the observatory that also acts like a spaceship, that this is there area where its passengers enter and exit on.
I like how condensed and isolated the observatory feels, it really adds to the dramatic scope found everywhere in Galaxy 1. Also what do you use to see the map with a camera like that?
Something I just realized as you were taking about the garden is that the dome itself has this shiny, pink and gold aesthetic with a crown on top. This could be a reference to peach/Rosalina's mother. And that would make the fact that the inside is a quiet hill so tragically beautiful! It's like Rosalina was trying to recreate those moments with her mom, or recreate the feeling that being on that hill gives her!
I've always felt something really cool about the observatory, but could never put my finger on what it was. This video encapsulated why I like it so much, so thank you once again for putting my feelings into words, Zike.
It is worth noting that the little mechanical dock that the Toad Brigade parks their ship at is part of the Observatory too. It's there before they arrive and it's there after they leave at the end. Presumably it's a dock specifically for spaceships, since that's the main way people would realistically be able to visit it.
12:27 because the planets are supposed to be very far away and with every star you explore further, so it wouldn't make much sense to display them so close to the observatory
But make sense according to what? This is Mariooooooooo, things don't have to make perfect sense, I'm sure no one would mind if you could baaaaarely see it far off in the distance
@@zoomzike thats why the hungry luma galaxies are there. I really do not disagree with you, I definitely do agree with this idea. But I truly think that the developers were trying to make a point about how far Mario has to travel around the universe.
@@lightsonicspeed4 If that's what their point was then I feel like the point should've had more emphasis on making an interconnected world, just my pov
I remember looking up to the sky and finding these two columns of clouds trailing a jet or a plane. Every time I saw those as a kid, I thought about the blasting off of the Comet Observatory and how cool it was to watch fly into space. You have to remember that not only is it a home for Rosalina and the Lumas, but also a straight-up spacecraft. You can't fight Bowser until you gain acess to the engine room, which makes sense because you need an engine to run! And there's even a Gearmo inside saying "Hey, the levels from here on out will get tougher! Be careful!" which was so charming! Man, I loved Galaxy 1. I made it a goal to replay it every year. It's my dream game. From the unique levels, to the beautiful soundtrack, to the care of Rosalina, every moment of this game is absolute perfection. And while Galaxy 2 may not have hit that same mark, I still appreciate it for even attempting it. It may not have beaten it out, but it was still a fun ride reminding me of what Galaxy was supposed to be. A fun, wacky adventure through the depths of space itself. And Rosalina's Comet Observatory is the best video game hub world, nay, home I have ever seen.
I love seeing your enthusiasm for the Observatory's design. The pipes were my favorite part when I played, but I never thought it through like you did lol
0:40 I didn't catch this until replaying the game but I realized that the platform essentially acts as a landing pad for Mario. Thought it was a neat little touch
Starship Mario, Compared to the observatory, was the biggest let-down in Super Mario Galaxy 2 for me. The hub and level navigation in SMG1 was near-perfect.
that platform that zooms the camera out is an entrance for when the observatory flies by a planet.. it's kinda like when you're on a ship and have to walk on that little platform to get up..
While be able to see other galaxies from the observatory _would_ be a cool visual, you need to keep in mind its an _observatory..._ And they're in _space._ EVERYTHING is way farther apart than it looks. Think about it like this... From Earth, the next closest planet (Mars) is near indistinguishable from a star when looking at it with the naked eye... Of course you can't see the other galaxies.
I'm 7 months late but as someone who loves the idea of space, and is a simp for Rosalina (she's better then every other girl in the series I'll fight anyone who says otherwise) this is true.
I love this place! It's a home away from home for me. I spent so many hours here as a kid, hearing the music and exploring the different parts of the Observatory. I would jump off cuz I thought the sound Mario made was funny. I would love to live here. Only place I particularly disagree with this video is about you wanting to see the other Galaxies in the distance. I think that unless they were really, really small that would kinda compromise the solemnity and beauty of space in this game. I also like the idea of Mario being catapulted light-years away every time he goes to a new Galaxy.
i barely played the main game when i was younger. i just walked around the observatory and looked at all the little things like the circles and the cables/pipes. it felt so big, i always wanted to know what every little detail meant.... that's my mario galaxy experience
I'm pretty sure the gear platform at the front is more than observation deck I think Mario is meant to land there in game universe wise after coming back from a planet and its also connected to the generator and that little pad Rosalina sits on as we see to stars with wires coming from the direction of and of them is a different shade of green meaning core energy went to 1 star pad to the one that turned the gears on causing the first dome to turn on and then there's 2 purple wires one from the gears then to the purple pipe which powers the bedroom and the other gear observation area near the bedroom. I also really love how the pink pipe mysteriously connects across a gap which is a reference to how the pink energy is really the red star energy which means the energy is gliding to the other side to get to the platform and reach the little house then it glides to the other pad to reach the garden pipe, Rosalina even says the red stars are a result of the generators excess energy, which explains why the garden exists, to keep them there so the lumas don't get hurt or have bad reactions that's also why it's placed on Toad brigades little platform to avoid bad reactions on the observatory the details are beautiful. As for the carnival top I think you can unlock another story that explains it in SMG2 where basically it was apart of where she lived or her families so she took it and made it apart of the observatory. Tbh I still prefer SMG2 for it's levels, and Yoshi, but SMG1 will always have the red star, the vibes, the details and the nostalgia which is honestly what makes me appreciate the secret ending cutscence of SMG2 more as Mario sees Rosalina once more but can't quite remember her as it's been so long and the Lumas universal reset finally took effect on his mind but his face says that deep down he still on a subconscious level remembers her and that adventure as that old tune tho muffled still plays in his mind, it's bitter sweet but beautiful from Mario subconscious reaction to the Luma leaving to everything I mentioned before to Rosalina telling Mario he probably wouldn't remember and that's it's okay to "thank you again Mario." To them literally remodeling the entire observatory in lower poly for that cutscence in SMG2 and have the music very very faintly play in the background to truly make you feel nostalgia while feeling what Mario is feeling at the same time, it's beautiful.
I love how compact Galaxy's hub world is, I really don't want to spend so much time running around to get to the next group of levels. I feel Mario 64 and Sunshine need fast travel whereas Galaxy doesn't (just make it a list of courses that I can quickly select from). I get that people like to get lost in hub worlds and explore, but I just want an option to quickly get into levels when I've already beaten the game or have played it for like 15 or 20 years. To make Galaxy's hub world better, I would think having the Lumas AND Rosalina doing stuff would be amazing. Have her wonder around the observatory just chilling or doing some chores (like have Rosalina in a chef outfit near the kitchen). Story time could be the main focus of her living in the observatory but show small snippets of her doing other things. === I would add a guest bedroom to the observatory, so Mario and Luigi have their own place and perhaps have little trophies from the different galaxies they been to or 100%.
dude i love your enthusiasm for showing off the little things in these games, you're a kid at heart and i feel the exact same joy in exploring the tiny details in all of my games
Galaxy 1 is just the BEST when it comes to visual design, sound design, and aesthetic. Even Mario Odyssey doesn’t come close to how much care goes into the design of even the smallest grass blade.
I think my only real issue with the observatory is that it's so small. It's basically Rosalina's kingdom, so I feel like it should be larger and more like a town or city. I'm sure there are good reasons for it to be the way it is, but it still feels more like a mansion than a domain.
Your video is really great! Mario Galaxy is my favorite game so it makes me so happy to see that someone also notices all the little details of the observatory. ❤ But I wonder at 5:40 what site are you talking about? Is this the site where you found the map of the observatory?
Not only do the colored tubes add world detail and realism but also acts as a guide for players as path indicators rather than just using simple arrows. Nintendo certainly knows how to polish their games.
I absolutely love Mario Galaxy. One of the best games that i have ever played (and i have played a ton games) PS: The pipes also have a functional use besides being cool, they lead you towards the different worlds meaning that it's impossible to get lost for new players
Even though the observatory doesn’t have as much to explore as Peach’s Castle or Delfino Plaza it still gives me a warm and cosy feeling whenever I’m there. Galaxy has such a unique and peaceful vibe you’d never expect in a Mario game, it makes you happy to just exist in that space
I completely agree with you in everything said in this video, I will always love & prefer the first game over the second any day, plus I find the second game a lot harder too!
The tube that goes to the Garden is unfortunately, not present on the green platform leading up to it. Not a big deal, but the attention to detail is still really impressive
Thing is, SM3DW wasn't trying to do a hub world, because it's not "really" a classical 3D Mario game. It's got the framework of a classical 2D Mario game, but with 3D gameplay instead. Compared to 2D Mario overworlds, SM3DW is beautiful and immense
@@blightedadmiral7006 True lol. It just doesn't feel like a fair comparison, to compare 3D World to Galaxy or Sunshine or 64, when the core gameplay loop is so completely different.
@@blightedadmiral7006 I can't imagine how they could make a 2D Mario overworld as "interesting" as a 3D Mario hub world.. the closest would be like the galaxy map in SMG2, but I think that was one of the least liked parts of the game, in terms of aesthetic.
"The quiet sadness of Super Mario Galaxy" sums up perfectly why I just can't make myself say the sequel is better even with its superior level design.
Galaxy 1 has vibes man
Space Junk best existential level in all of gaming.
Is the level design superior though? Both games aim for different level structures.
@@blackdot105 Yes. Yoshi makes the levels better to play.
@@blackdot105 I’d say so. Galaxy 1’s level design is a little confused, they make these pseudo sandbox levels that you return to 5 or 6 times but each star mission is super linear and there isn’t really any inertia in the movement to make that kind of progression satisfying. Galaxy 2 embraces the linearity with more levels that you visit fewer times and better movement options through Yoshi and the new power ups. Galaxy 1 levels aren’t bad at all but I think Galaxy 2 is at least an improvement.
That being said I like Galaxy 1 a lot more, and the biggest thing that sticks out to me are the vibes. It’s got a beautiful quiet sadness like the op said.
Alternate title: ZoomZike Gushes About Colored Tubes for 15 Minutes (The tubes are really cool)
Now awaiting “Mario jumps on Rosalina’s bed for an hour straight”
Oh, I bet mario would be making her bed shake one way or another 😏or at least I would
@@UBvtuber Don't make me get the bat
@@Kyubeylovessouls baal finna pull out the bat from her boobas to bonk the horni outta me.
@@UBvtuber You damn right
@@UBvtuber Bruh wtf
I used to be captivated by the backgrounds in this game. Like, look at those stars at the bottom of the skybox. What _are_ they? A city? A galaxy? A giant festival? These are the sort of things that don't go through my head anymore as an adult.
Well I Encourage You To Get Into The Habit Of Doing That Again! Even If You Aren't Thinking Up Answers To Your Questions As Much Anymore You Should *Absolutely* Question Small Things Like That Again! Who Knows? It Might Lead To Some Nice Conversations With Others!
Maybe they are just normal stars?
@@Amexy-mr6lw maybe it’s New Donk City?
It is hard to continue to "dream" about things of this nature as an adult... because when you are a child, you have not deeply integrated a structure of what the real world is and is not, so you are more free to imagine what things may be and make unique connections. But it is important to remember that the concepts that fascinated you about this thing in particular are abstractions of something that was experienced by an artist or developer who worked on this title. I believe the quality to keep in mind that relates directly to this is "openness," and if you can foster that openness, I think you can continue to make those abstract connections and maintain a sense of creativity and mystery.
Another amazing thing about the Tubes is they also act as guides to each zone. As I kid id always forget where the engine room and garden were so I always just followed the tubes and they always got me there
I loved Rosalinas observatory SO MUCH it's my favorite hubworld in a game I've played!
The music, the secrets, and the atmosphere were just perfection. The way it opens up was always so cool
2:41 Damn, I already knew the tubes were there, but I didn't realize they were visible under the glass. It's so cool how they implemented in universe what could have simply been some lines to help the player reach the domes. The only thing I dislike about the observatory is how it only has downwards gravity, there's that Y shaped planet but I wish you could go to the underside of the observatory or something.
I think someone did(or at least modded the game to where you can use a special power up that can be used after you unlock it in a purple coin level and visit but I don’t remember
I have played this game for years and never knew that
The whole thing about not showing galaxies from the hub is they are supposed to be millions of miles apart as things in outer space tend to be.
Now it would totally make sense to be able to see the other galaxies in each room from the levels and have them be tiny textures to really sell how huge the universe is.
They also could have them visible from the observatory though by having these wormhole looking things appear with each new room powered and then have little png's of each galaxy visible within the wormhole, because that's the whole premise. Each room is basically creating wormhole to let you visit a solar system even further away.
"they actually dress up the toads, oh no I'm getting sticker star flashbacks"
I don't know why but that made me laugh
I'm not sure how much sense being able to see other planets and galaxies from the observatory would make sense from a physics standpoint as if Earth is any indication they'd show up as small circles at the largest and small lights at the smallest. But a telescope could work
You lost me the moment you brought up physics in Mario Galaxy
@@zoomzike you got me there
@@zoomzike you could probably get someone to make a mod for you that makes visible galaxies as rings showing the different planets in them but as a spinning, 2d texture at a slight tilt to make it seem 3d. it would probably be one of the biggest computing resource efficiency - enjoyment factor ratios in history.
Rosalina’s Observatory was honestly so nice! It was so great how more instruments were brought into the theme as you unlocked more and more of the observatory, the music is just too good. And of course, I have my own childhood bias with this game since I used to spend HOURS playing it and sitting in the observatory. Man, I miss this game!
and i miss playing as luma with you :>
@@sush.i Co-star mode was one of the few reasons that my little brother would be willing to play games with me!
This set the benchmark for hub worlds. I think if I build my own house in real life, it'll be inspired by this. Rosalina type woman there, too.
Listening to a grown man gush about the comet observatory was....
Amazing.
It was like having my childhood memories read back to me from a storybook. You've taken everything my child mind loved about the observatory and made it into such a wonderful video!
Fun Fact, Yoshiaki Koizumi, the director of Super Mario Galaxy, had stayed up late in the night while no one was around developing Rosalina's story so that no one had a clue about it. He then showed it to Miyamoto, who was taken by surprise.
Another cool fact is that a channel called T-Time had created a real copy of Rosalina's story book.
Also. Unlocking the red star power-up that lets you fly. First off, sick color scheme (you know, classic kid stuff, red and black always looks cool), and secondly, FLYING. Yeah it was a bit janky but I couldn't care less, as a kid this was the coolest thing to move around flying everywhere. And the track accompagnying it was cool too.
I feel like ZoomZike's videos represent feelings and/or nostalgia of things we all cared about and subjects we all hold close to our heart but he is the one who is taking all of our feelings and putting it into video form. Thank you for showcasing what many of us feel
The tubes are so nice. I love how they also function like a little guide on 'here's how you get to the next dome'.
And oof... sticker star flashbacks...
Oh my god! I can almost see it in front of my eyes to the point that it feels weird that it's not a thing! Having Lumas going around doing all sorts of things would be INSANE! Some maybe sitting on the grass and relaxing, some playfully running all over the place together, some just sleeping in cozy places like on top of the Bedroom dome, some striking pleasant conversations with Toads! That amount of activity would really make the Observatory feel incredibly colorful!
It's not alot but the lumas do have conversations with eachother. They even wave goodbye when they're done and head off to talk with other lumas.
Mommy of the stars is the best mom
Amen
A man of culture I see
Don’t mind me, just making comments as I watch the video.
The menu behind Rosalina also shows where there are current prankster comets, making it even better.
Something about the water on the sides of the fountain just flowing off the edge into nothingness is off-putting, probably because there’s somehow an unlimited water source in my space Mario game.
The idea of Rosalina personally saving me when I fall makes me feel bad for constantly trying and failing to do cool tricks in which I end up falling.
It must be difficult accessing cupboards behind the staircase. Also those are some massive plates, cups, and utensils.
I always thought of the library outside to be like some chill lounge.
Shoutouts to the yellow luma next to the garage.
I loved how the garden looked like an open field. It’s a neat illusion.
Yeah the Mario Galaxy stage selection is great. (glances toward Galaxy 2)
I think it would be cool if the bigger galaxies when you get all the stars and the hungry luma galaxies when you unlock them appeared in the distant background.
I find it funny how you have to unlock Rosalina’s bedroom. It makes me think that while Mario went on these journeys before unlocking the bedroom, Rosalina just had to sleep outside. Same with the kitchen, because you have the plates and everything, but you can’t cook because the kitchen is locked. Ok now I’m wondering how the Observatory operated without access to the Engine Room. Is each room just locked, or do the rooms also have no power?
The green star trial planet just looks off. It’s like there should be something on the opposite side of the pipe, like a reward for completing all three trials.
You do have a reward tho, the 4th and last trial if you get all 240 stars (Mario and Luigi)
Since you actually brought up in-universe explanations for some things, I just like to compliment the feat of engineering! Seriously, Rosalina pretty much led the entire construction, and based on the storybook, she was still a teenager when she started. Not to mention the fact that she helped repair a much smaller ship while she was still on Earth. Over the years, she managed to turn a small comet that she landed on into a tri-engine fusion-powered FTL-capable spacecraft with complete living facilities.
From what I remember, Mario Kart hinted that she has a thing for motorcycles, and honestly? It's not that surprising giving that she's a skilled enough engineer behind that dress to build _this_ thing.
Another really cool attention to detail I grew to love about the Observatory is the fact that the teleporters actually change their beams' color depending on what color the tube connecting to them was (aka Fountain is Blue, Garden is Pink, etc). It's honestly details like this that, in my opinion, make Mario Galaxy something quite special.
i've never realized until now that the green part on the spiral to the kitchen was a tablecloth and not grass. always fun to learn new things about your favorite game, i suppose!
One thing I love about the level select in the game is how the boss galaxies always have an odd orbit from the others as if they were artificially made into orbit. It’s a really cool detail.
I would spend hours on end just taking in the beauty of the comet observatory. They struck this perfect balance between ethereal and fun, a place filled with life that was somehow also surrounded in the cold vast of space itself. Rosalina and Luma always felt like these kind friends and family that you just want to be surrounded by. The story book area feels so warm and cozy, but then you're struck with this somber heartbreak when you learn about Rosalina's past. The music has been stuck in my brain for the longest time, it's so beautiful yet rather simple. Even the rooms themselves are filled with personality. I can't gush enough how much I adore it
"oh whats so special about a couple of tubes?, its that they TRIED" that line hits so close to home nowadays. you rarely get that not just attention to detail but a loving attention to detail anymore
I played through Galaxy 2 once many years ago, and have played little snippets of 1, but not an actual complete playthrough. While I don't have many memories of the Observatory myself, the place does intrigue me, more so than the Mario ship in the sequel. In particular the garden, it just looks super chill.
Though it’s not quite to the same level as what would be really cool, there are a few Lumas (whom are too high above the ground to interact with) who float around the observatory. When they meet up with another Luma, they chat for a bit, and when they’re done, they say goodbye and go on their merry way. It’s nothing to the same level as what Delfino Plaza brings us, but it’s cool nonetheless.
Wouldn't it be cool if every time you got a Grand Star, a cutscene lighting up the tube would play?
It's almost like that's exactly what does happen. :P
I don’t remember much about my childhood but I remember this endless fascination from powering up the observatory, chasing the tubes to their respective domains, listening to the music build on itself, and eventually just flying around with the red star. It was all just so magical and i loved it
Hey, it's the guy who never finished Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour
You forgot to mention the Red Star that let's you fly around.
I always noticed how the tubes went to each of the domes as a kid, but I didn't really think about it much. It is cool.
i really love the observatory it’s like a home away from home for me. Super mario Galaxy 2 can never be as good since the lack of the observatory. one of the best games i’ve ever played
The observatory is one of the main reasons why I'll never agree with people who say Super Mario Galaxy 2 is better.
Some people just care more about the gameplay than the aesthetic. Also, Yoshi is best :D
Also the story in this game is way better than in the sequel.
The pure gameplay was higher quality in SMG2, but atmospherically and story wise, SMG1 just blows 2 out of the water.
@@angeldude101 both games are equal in my opinion.
@@angeldude101 Galaxy 1 is subjectivity better while Galaxy 2 is objectively better. Do you agree with my point?
The first area you looked into, yeah that's the bridge. In the cutscene where Rosalina flies to the center of the universe, she uses this platform to extend a bridge out for Mario/Luigi to enter Peach's Palace. I guess you could say, if the observatory that also acts like a spaceship, that this is there area where its passengers enter and exit on.
I like how condensed and isolated the observatory feels, it really adds to the dramatic scope found everywhere in Galaxy 1. Also what do you use to see the map with a camera like that?
Something I just realized as you were taking about the garden is that the dome itself has this shiny, pink and gold aesthetic with a crown on top. This could be a reference to peach/Rosalina's mother. And that would make the fact that the inside is a quiet hill so tragically beautiful! It's like Rosalina was trying to recreate those moments with her mom, or recreate the feeling that being on that hill gives her!
Reading these comments would make you a COMMENT observatory...ill go home
I've always felt something really cool about the observatory, but could never put my finger on what it was. This video encapsulated why I like it so much, so thank you once again for putting my feelings into words, Zike.
It is worth noting that the little mechanical dock that the Toad Brigade parks their ship at is part of the Observatory too. It's there before they arrive and it's there after they leave at the end.
Presumably it's a dock specifically for spaceships, since that's the main way people would realistically be able to visit it.
Definitely one my favourite videos on this whole website I love your enthusiasm about everything
12:27
because the planets are supposed to be very far away and with every star you explore further, so it wouldn't make much sense to display them so close to the observatory
But make sense according to what?
This is Mariooooooooo, things don't have to make perfect sense, I'm sure no one would mind if you could baaaaarely see it far off in the distance
He's got a point. Mario may not be the series for you if you value logic.
@@zoomzike thats why the hungry luma galaxies are there. I really do not disagree with you, I definitely do agree with this idea. But I truly think that the developers were trying to make a point about how far Mario has to travel around the universe.
@@lightsonicspeed4 If that's what their point was then I feel like the point should've had more emphasis on making an interconnected world, just my pov
I remember looking up to the sky and finding these two columns of clouds trailing a jet or a plane. Every time I saw those as a kid, I thought about the blasting off of the Comet Observatory and how cool it was to watch fly into space. You have to remember that not only is it a home for Rosalina and the Lumas, but also a straight-up spacecraft. You can't fight Bowser until you gain acess to the engine room, which makes sense because you need an engine to run! And there's even a Gearmo inside saying "Hey, the levels from here on out will get tougher! Be careful!" which was so charming!
Man, I loved Galaxy 1. I made it a goal to replay it every year. It's my dream game. From the unique levels, to the beautiful soundtrack, to the care of Rosalina, every moment of this game is absolute perfection. And while Galaxy 2 may not have hit that same mark, I still appreciate it for even attempting it. It may not have beaten it out, but it was still a fun ride reminding me of what Galaxy was supposed to be. A fun, wacky adventure through the depths of space itself. And Rosalina's Comet Observatory is the best video game hub world, nay, home I have ever seen.
You didn't even mention the best part, the power up that lets you fly around
wow, i guess that settled the ZoomZike lore debates on what Windows XP screensaver you had as a kid, thx for supporting the wiki.
I love seeing your enthusiasm for the Observatory's design. The pipes were my favorite part when I played, but I never thought it through like you did lol
Mario Galaxy was such a beautiful game, in every aspect, the music, the areas, every small detail is absolutely beautiful
0:40 I didn't catch this until replaying the game but I realized that the platform essentially acts as a landing pad for Mario. Thought it was a neat little touch
The little sound effects you make in this video makes the video even better
The fact that youtube failed to recommend any other videos really speaks to the uniqueness of this channel. Love ya, zike!
Rosalina's Observatory is like a peaceful Sanctuary among the stars, its beautiful.
Starship Mario, Compared to the observatory, was the biggest let-down in Super Mario Galaxy 2 for me. The hub and level navigation in SMG1 was near-perfect.
Wait how did you get 131 stars in Galaxy 1? Guys, I think ZoomZike is a cheater.
I think this is NoClip, not the actual game.
@@legoboy7107 it is NoClip.
Ahhh!! You’re sooo cute when you’re gushing!! 💖🥺
that platform that zooms the camera out is an entrance for when the observatory flies by a planet.. it's kinda like when you're on a ship and have to walk on that little platform to get up..
While be able to see other galaxies from the observatory _would_ be a cool visual, you need to keep in mind its an _observatory..._ And they're in _space._ EVERYTHING is way farther apart than it looks.
Think about it like this... From Earth, the next closest planet (Mars) is near indistinguishable from a star when looking at it with the naked eye... Of course you can't see the other galaxies.
Man, I'm sad I missed a June Zoom, didnt know it was going on this year..
ZoomZike sounds so excited it’s like Christmas came early for him
I'm 7 months late but as someone who loves the idea of space, and is a simp for Rosalina (she's better then every other girl in the series I'll fight anyone who says otherwise) this is true.
I love this place! It's a home away from home for me. I spent so many hours here as a kid, hearing the music and exploring the different parts of the Observatory. I would jump off cuz I thought the sound Mario made was funny. I would love to live here. Only place I particularly disagree with this video is about you wanting to see the other Galaxies in the distance. I think that unless they were really, really small that would kinda compromise the solemnity and beauty of space in this game. I also like the idea of Mario being catapulted light-years away every time he goes to a new Galaxy.
i barely played the main game when i was younger. i just walked around the observatory and looked at all the little things like the circles and the cables/pipes. it felt so big, i always wanted to know what every little detail meant.... that's my mario galaxy experience
This video
1% the observatory
99% tubes
even though i enjoyed more the second i gotta agree that the first is just objectively better
0:45 if it’s a ship maybe it’s like a dock
I'm gonna be honest:
I wanna live in there.
This place has a special place in my heart
I'm pretty sure the gear platform at the front is more than observation deck I think Mario is meant to land there in game universe wise after coming back from a planet and its also connected to the generator and that little pad Rosalina sits on as we see to stars with wires coming from the direction of and of them is a different shade of green meaning core energy went to 1 star pad to the one that turned the gears on causing the first dome to turn on and then there's 2 purple wires one from the gears then to the purple pipe which powers the bedroom and the other gear observation area near the bedroom.
I also really love how the pink pipe mysteriously connects across a gap which is a reference to how the pink energy is really the red star energy which means the energy is gliding to the other side to get to the platform and reach the little house then it glides to the other pad to reach the garden pipe, Rosalina even says the red stars are a result of the generators excess energy, which explains why the garden exists, to keep them there so the lumas don't get hurt or have bad reactions that's also why it's placed on Toad brigades little platform to avoid bad reactions on the observatory the details are beautiful.
As for the carnival top I think you can unlock another story that explains it in SMG2 where basically it was apart of where she lived or her families so she took it and made it apart of the observatory.
Tbh I still prefer SMG2 for it's levels, and Yoshi, but SMG1 will always have the red star, the vibes, the details and the nostalgia which is honestly what makes me appreciate the secret ending cutscence of SMG2 more as Mario sees Rosalina once more but can't quite remember her as it's been so long and the Lumas universal reset finally took effect on his mind but his face says that deep down he still on a subconscious level remembers her and that adventure as that old tune tho muffled still plays in his mind, it's bitter sweet but beautiful from Mario subconscious reaction to the Luma leaving to everything I mentioned before to Rosalina telling Mario he probably wouldn't remember and that's it's okay to "thank you again Mario." To them literally remodeling the entire observatory in lower poly for that cutscence in SMG2 and have the music very very faintly play in the background to truly make you feel nostalgia while feeling what Mario is feeling at the same time, it's beautiful.
I figured that the Observitory had an automated system that saved anyone who falls off.
It Does But Grand Stars Are Also Needed To Charge The Beacon
I love how compact Galaxy's hub world is, I really don't want to spend so much time running around to get to the next group of levels. I feel Mario 64 and Sunshine need fast travel whereas Galaxy doesn't (just make it a list of courses that I can quickly select from).
I get that people like to get lost in hub worlds and explore, but I just want an option to quickly get into levels when I've already beaten the game or have played it for like 15 or 20 years.
To make Galaxy's hub world better, I would think having the Lumas AND Rosalina doing stuff would be amazing. Have her wonder around the observatory just chilling or doing some chores (like have Rosalina in a chef outfit near the kitchen). Story time could be the main focus of her living in the observatory but show small snippets of her doing other things.
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I would add a guest bedroom to the observatory, so Mario and Luigi have their own place and perhaps have little trophies from the different galaxies they been to or 100%.
love this video:)))))
litterally used to just hang out at the observatory when i was a kid playing this
Fun fact: It's never mentioned in the game (only in the instruction manual, apparently), but the black luma's name is Polari!
i cant get enough of the enthusiasm in this video it makes me so happy
The Domes are what they used to Observe the galaxies.
They're too far away to see them without the Domes.
dude i love your enthusiasm for showing off the little things in these games, you're a kid at heart and i feel the exact same joy in exploring the tiny details in all of my games
Man sees electricity for the first time
the "lesser green" galaxies are the portals to the hungry luma galaxies
This was a good watch I always enjoy your videos.
I really love these analisis videos, they help me aprieceate stuff I would never have noticed
finally, someone else who understands how awesome the tubes are
One of the many reasons this is my favorite game ever
This video also was ver helpful to design my own hub world more my game ideas
He is a literal child. I love him
That Cvit impression was on point holy hell
Galaxy 1 is just the BEST when it comes to visual design, sound design, and aesthetic. Even Mario Odyssey doesn’t come close to how much care goes into the design of even the smallest grass blade.
I think my only real issue with the observatory is that it's so small. It's basically Rosalina's kingdom, so I feel like it should be larger and more like a town or city. I'm sure there are good reasons for it to be the way it is, but it still feels more like a mansion than a domain.
I would love for you to gush about the Pokemon Colosseum towns like Agate Village and Phenac City. Those were my childhood favorites
This man geeking out on the observatory is just fucking adorable 🤗🤣🤣🤣🤣
When Zoomzike taught me about the power tubes and the grand stars, I literally pogged.
Your video is really great! Mario Galaxy is my favorite game so it makes me so happy to see that someone also notices all the little details of the observatory. ❤
But I wonder at 5:40 what site are you talking about? Is this the site where you found the map of the observatory?
Oh wow. I never noticed that the garden entrance is topped by a tiara. That's cool.
Zike: You should check out "The quiet sadness of Super Mario Galaxy"!
Me: I am 4 parallel universes ahead of you
Rosalina is the Jibril of the Marioverse
Not only do the colored tubes add world detail and realism but also acts as a guide for players as path indicators rather than just using simple arrows. Nintendo certainly knows how to polish their games.
I absolutely love Mario Galaxy. One of the best games that i have ever played (and i have played a ton games)
PS: The pipes also have a functional use besides being cool, they lead you towards the different worlds meaning that it's impossible to get lost for new players
Even though the observatory doesn’t have as much to explore as Peach’s Castle or Delfino Plaza it still gives me a warm and cosy feeling whenever I’m there. Galaxy has such a unique and peaceful vibe you’d never expect in a Mario game, it makes you happy to just exist in that space
I completely agree with you in everything said in this video, I will always love & prefer the first game over the second any day, plus I find the second game a lot harder too!
The tube that goes to the Garden is unfortunately, not present on the green platform leading up to it. Not a big deal, but the attention to detail is still really impressive
These were so cool, sadly SM3DW fails this, and they could’ve had an idea like this, it’d make it so much better
Thing is, SM3DW wasn't trying to do a hub world, because it's not "really" a classical 3D Mario game. It's got the framework of a classical 2D Mario game, but with 3D gameplay instead. Compared to 2D Mario overworlds, SM3DW is beautiful and immense
@@kryzethx that’s not saying much tho
@@blightedadmiral7006 True lol. It just doesn't feel like a fair comparison, to compare 3D World to Galaxy or Sunshine or 64, when the core gameplay loop is so completely different.
@@kryzethx doesn’t mean they couldn’t have done a better hub
@@blightedadmiral7006 I can't imagine how they could make a 2D Mario overworld as "interesting" as a 3D Mario hub world.. the closest would be like the galaxy map in SMG2, but I think that was one of the least liked parts of the game, in terms of aesthetic.
Imagine drunken munchies going to the kitchen at 2am...