Following the success ofSuper Mario 3D All-Starsand reintroducing the current gaming generation to olderSuper Marioclassics such asSuper Mario 64andSuper Mario Galaxy, there’s huge potential for a sequel toSuper Mario Sunshine. Despite its success and critical acclaim, the fullSuper Mario Sunshinecollection has been discontinued by Nintendo and removed from its eShop with only the physical copies now remaining. The collection was only intended to celebrate the franchise’s 35th anniversary and wasn’t a model Nintendo carried forward, explaining its limited availability.
But while fans might be calling forSuper Mario 3D All-Starsto returnat some point, the work that went into the remastered collection doesn’t need to go to waste. Nintendo proved that even some of its older ideas still hold up today. Combining the gameplay improvements Nintendo made inSuper Mario OdysseyandSuper Mario 3D World + Bowser’s FurywithSuper Mario Sunshine’score concept could form the foundations of a sequel to the classic GameCube title. The opportunity to return to Isle Delfino with F.L.U.D.D.’s comeback has never been better, and it’s the perfect chance to capitalize on bothSuper Mario’srecent success andSunshine’slasting nostalgia.
RELATED:Why Super Mario Sunshine Still Shines on Its 20th Anniversary
Super Mario Sunshine’s Standout Design
In contrast to previousSuper Mariogames,Sunshinewas a fresh take on the traditional game design that had characterized the franchise for so long, leaning into its tropical aesthetic to deliver a distinctive style. Likely the first game to popularizeSuper Mariogames with unique gimmicks like the futureGalaxy’suse of gravity, the introduction of a water backpack opened up different gameplay mechanics and means of traversing levels, ultimately adding a new dimension to the 3DMarioformat. Even by makingF.L.U.D.D. its own character, the change could arguably be a forefather to Cappy inOdyssey.
However, whileGalaxyreceived a second adventure with Yoshi andfans are still hoping for anOdysseysequel, whySunshinedid not receive the same treatment has remained unclear. While it’s possible that the development of the Wii likely influencedSuper Mario’sdirection, it’s evident from not justSuper Mario Galaxy 2butThe Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Maskthat Nintendo is more than prepared to revisit strong concepts for an additional adventure. AsSunshinewas and continues to be one of the more distinct and creativeSuper Mariogames, there’s a new opportunity to finally create a sequel.
Shaping Sunshine 2 from 3D All-Stars, Odyssey, and Bowser’s Fury
With the success of the latest SwitchMariogames,Sunshine 2is a very attainable project. For instance,3D All-Starsdemonstrated that the base game is workable for the Switch, whileOdysseyandBowser’s Furyprovides a new groundwork of movement mechanics and game design that should be blended intoSuper Mario Sunshine 2. Additionally,Bowser’s Furycould actually have a greater influence on a sequel as it markedthe return of Bowser Jr, showing the role he filled could similarly be translated intoSunshine’sdesign.
Beyond this, a sequel could then build upon the original core designs thatSunshineintroduced, like all thefeatures scrapped duringSunshine’sdevelopment. AsSunshineonly had a handful of nozzle attachments for F.L.U.D.D.,a sequel could include those cut from the original game like the Sniper Nozzle, or add new ones altogether. It could also take the opportunity to become a completely open-worldSuper Mariogame with seamless transition between areas, especially if the sequel were to return to Isle Delfino and take advantage of it being a self-contained island.
Super Mario Sunshineis available now on GameCube and Switch.
MORE:Nintendo Switch Online’s N64 Expansion Confirms Many’s Fear About Mario 3D All-Stars
