Today in History: Super Mario Sunshine Celebrates 21st Anniversary

July 19. It's an incredible day in history for many reasons. In 2007, the first episode of Mad Men aired, quickly becoming a hit series. Or, in 1976, Benedict Cumberbatch was born (AKA Marvel's Dr. Strange). But that's not the reason we're here today.

While great events themselves, both pale in comparison to July 19th, 2002. Yes, today is the anniversary of one of the greatest video games to ever be created.

That's right, folks, we're talking about the release of the smash hit, Super Mario Sunshine, on the Nintendo Gamecube in Japan. This game is now officially old enough to legally drink in the United States - and has been for quite a few years across the pond in most parts of the modern world. If you haven't had a chance to play this masterpiece, please take a few minutes to live vicariously through our recap.

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A Radiant Recap of Super Mario Sunshine

The core of Super Mario Sunshine is its story, which kicks off with Mario, Princess Peach, and Toadsworth flying to the idyllic Isle Delfino for a relaxing vacation. Upon arrival, they're greeted not by pristine beaches and welcoming locals, but by a messy island and a desperate plea to clean up. Framed for a crime he didn't commit, our mustachioed hero takes up the Flash Liquidizer Ultra Dousing Device, or F.L.U.D.D., to clear his name and restore the island's sparkle.

Super Mario Sunshine - Shadow Mario and Bowser Jr. | Image: Nintendo Supply

As Mario tackles a series of challenges across the island, he chases down a mysterious Mario look-alike (Shadow Mario) who’s causing mayhem. The plot thickens when it’s revealed that the imposter is Bowser Jr., who has tricked Princess Peach into thinking he’s her son. The adventure culminates in a thrilling face-off against Bowser and Bowser Jr., with Mario ultimately emerging victorious and peace returning to Isle Delfino.

F.L.U.D.D. Nozzles & Gameplay

Super Mario Sunshine introduced a fresh mechanic in the form of F.L.U.D.D., transforming the classic platforming gameplay with a splash of innovation. F.L.U.D.D. is equipped with four different types of nozzles:

• Squirt Nozzle: Mario's main water-spewing tool, perfect for cleaning up muck and fending off enemies.

• Hover Nozzle: This nozzle allows Mario to hover in mid-air for a brief period, handy for those tricky platforming sections.

• Rocket Nozzle: Need to reach a high platform or rooftop? The Rocket Nozzle sends Mario skyward with a powerful water-propelled boost.

• Turbo Nozzle: For when you need to sprint across the island or dart through water at breakneck speed, the Turbo Nozzle has you covered.

Super Mario Sunshine - Rocket Nozzle | Image: Nintendo

The addition of F.L.U.D.D. to the game completely changes how this game plays when compared to it's predecessors. You are forced to think with water dynamics and the game environment, rather than completely speed running through obstacles, which adds a new layer of excitement. If we had to pick a personal favorite, it would be the Hover Nozzle for it's maneuverability (and forgiveness when attempting to traverse some parts of the game).

Yoshi, Mario's Trusty Sidekick, Makes an Appearance

Super Mario Sunshine marks the first 3D Mario game where you can ride Yoshi. The experience of dashing across levels on Yoshi while gobbling fruits and spewing juice at enemies adds a delightful layer to gameplay. Plus, Yoshi’s juice and color changes properties based on the type of fruit eaten, adding another strategic element to this joyous journey.

Super Mario Sunshine - Yoshi | Image: Nintendo

Super Mario Sunshine Boss Battles

While every boss fight in Super Mario Sunshine presents its unique challenge, Wiggler and Petey Piranha stand out as fan favorites. Wiggler, the enormous caterpillar, tests Mario’s agility and timing in a thrilling beachside showdown. Meanwhile, the Venus Flytrap-like Petey Piranha appears multiple times throughout the game, each encounter ramping up the intensity.

Super Mario Sunshine - Petey Piranha | Image: Nintendo

One of the pivotal moments is battling these bosses with precision water blasts, making the victories ever so satisfying.

Super Mario Sunshine Zones

Isle Delfino in Super Mario Sunshine is far from a generic tropical paradise. Its zones, brimming with personality, present distinct challenges. At the heart of it all is Delfino Plaza, the game's central hub, bustling with Piantas and serving as the gateway to other zones.

Super Mario Sunshine - Delfino Plaza | Image: Nintendo

In the realm of favorite zones, Gelato Beach and Noki Bay shine brightly. Gelato Beach, with its soothing ocean waves and pristine sands, is where you face off against Wiggler in a memorable battle. Noki Bay, on the other hand, is a tranquil water-filled haven with its towering cliffs and ancient ruins, offering a truly immersive environment for players.

Conclusion

To wrap up, Super Mario Sunshine is a classic testament to Nintendo's ability to innovate within an established franchise, keeping the gameplay fresh while retaining the charm that makes a Mario game. Whether you’re a newcomer seeking a nostalgic gaming experience or an old fan looking to revisit Isle Delfino's beauty, Super Mario Sunshine's sun-soaked adventure is sure to warm your heart.

Where to Buy Super Mario Sunshine for the Nintendo Switch

While we're still waiting (and we mean waiting) for Super Mario Sunshine's direct release on the Nintendo Switch, it has yet to materialize. While there have been rumors of a solo remastered game, nothing is set in stone.

If you can't wait, you can get your hands on this game today through the Super Mario 3D All-Stars bundle pack below:

Super Mario 3D All-Stars

Super Mario 3D All-Stars | Image: Nintendo Supply

This hard-to-come-by game is a bundle of three of the best 3D Mario games released to date: Super Mario Sunshine, Mario Galaxy, and Super Mario 64. This region-free version is playable whether you're in the US, Europe, Asia, or anywhere else!

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