Get ready, Mario fans, because the universe just got a little more colorful as Nintendo gears up for an out-of-this-world celebration of Super Mario’s 40th anniversary! Among the exciting announcements, a delightful reveal has surfaced: iconic characters from the beloved *Super Mario Galaxy* and *Super Mario Galaxy 2* are coming to Nintendo Switch Online as customizable profile icons. This isn’t just a small cosmetic update; it’s a nostalgic nod to two of the greatest platformers ever made, igniting anticipation and reminding us why Mario remains a global phenomenon.
### A Cosmic Collectible: What These Icons Mean
Nintendo Life recently dropped the news that profile icons featuring characters from *Super Mario Galaxy* and its equally acclaimed sequel will be available for Nintendo Switch Online members. These aren’t just a one-time drop; the announcement specifies “three waves starting next week,” suggesting a phased release that builds excitement and offers fans a rolling collection opportunity. Typically, these themed icons are acquired using Platinum Points – a digital currency earned through My Nintendo missions – making them a coveted badge of fandom for loyal subscribers and a fun way to personalize your Nintendo Switch profile.
For many, *Super Mario Galaxy* and *Super Mario Galaxy 2* represent the pinnacle of 3D platforming. Released on the Nintendo Wii, these titles redefined innovation with their gravity-defying gameplay, imaginative level design, and a stunning orchestral soundtrack that still resonates today. The first *Galaxy* game, launched in 2007, captivated players with its spherical worlds and groundbreaking mechanics, earning universal critical acclaim. Its 2010 sequel, *Galaxy 2*, refined and expanded upon everything that made the original great, adding Yoshi into the mix and delivering even more creative levels, solidifying its place as one of the best games of all time. Having these iconic characters – from Mario and Luigi in their space suits, to Rosalina, Lumas, and various cosmic adversaries – available as profile pictures is a direct appeal to the deep affection players hold for these games.
### Beyond the Pixels: The Enduring Appeal of Digital Personalization
While profile icons might seem like a minor addition, they play a significant role in modern gaming culture. They allow players to express their identity, showcase their favorite franchises, and connect with a community of like-minded fans. Nintendo has smartly utilized its Nintendo Switch Online service and the My Nintendo program to offer exclusive, limited-time icon sets, encouraging engagement and adding value to subscriptions. These *Galaxy* icons are a perfect example, tapping into a wellspring of nostalgia and giving long-time fans a new way to celebrate their cherished memories.
The announcement of these icons, coming as “three waves,” is a clever strategy. It ensures sustained interest over several weeks, encouraging players to regularly check the NSO app for new additions. This gradual rollout not only maximizes engagement but also creates a sense of anticipation, turning a simple cosmetic update into an ongoing event for the Nintendo community. It’s a prime example of how even small gestures can create significant buzz within a dedicated fanbase.
### Mario’s Monumental 40th Anniversary: A Legacy Continues
Super Mario is more than just a video game character; he’s a cultural icon whose influence spans generations. His 40th anniversary marks a remarkable milestone, celebrating four decades of groundbreaking adventures, innovative gameplay, and pure joy. From his humble beginnings as Jumpman in *Donkey Kong* to his star-hopping escapades in *Super Mario Odyssey*, Mario has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, making him arguably the most recognizable figure in the industry.
Nintendo has been orchestrating a series of “announcements and reveals” to commemorate this special occasion, and these *Galaxy* icons fit perfectly into that celebratory mosaic. They serve as a loving tribute to a specific, incredibly popular era of Mario’s history. While fans are always hopeful for new game announcements or remasters (like the much-loved *Super Mario 3D All-Stars* collection that briefly brought *Galaxy* to the Switch), these smaller, heartfelt gestures like profile icons are equally important in acknowledging the franchise’s rich legacy and engaging the passionate fan base. They demonstrate Nintendo’s understanding of the emotional connection players have with these characters and worlds.
### Nintendo Switch Online: A Hub for Classic Celebrations
Nintendo Switch Online has evolved into more than just a multiplayer service; it’s become a portal to Nintendo’s vast history, offering a growing library of classic NES, SNES, N64, Genesis, and Game Boy titles. While the *Galaxy* games themselves are not (yet) part of this retro library, the release of their icons highlights NSO’s broader role in fostering fan engagement and celebrating beloved franchises. It’s a testament to how Nintendo leverages its online ecosystem to connect past, present, and future gaming experiences. These icon drops, alongside game trials and exclusive offers, continuously add value for subscribers, reinforcing the platform’s appeal and its role in keeping Nintendo’s rich history alive and accessible.
### Conclusion: Customize Your Cosmos!
As Mario’s 40th anniversary celebrations continue to unfold, the arrival of *Super Mario Galaxy* and *Super Mario Galaxy 2* icons on Nintendo Switch Online is a fantastic way to honor two magnificent chapters in his illustrious career. Get ready to personalize your Switch profile with a touch of cosmic wonder, diving into the nostalgia of Rosalina, the Lumas, and the gravity-defying adventures that defined an era. Keep an eye out for those three waves starting next week – it’s time to show off your love for the Galaxy games and join the ongoing celebration of gaming’s most iconic plumber. Here’s to 40 years of jumping, exploring, and saving the day – and to many more to come!