Nintendo Reveals New 'Super Mario Galaxy' Switch Online Icon Waves

09/18/2025

In honor of Super Mario's monumental 40th anniversary, Nintendo has unveiled a series of exciting announcements, notably the impending return of 'Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2' to the Nintendo Switch. Accompanying this highly anticipated re-release, a fresh collection of themed Switch Online icons featuring beloved characters such as Mario and Rosalina is set to debut. Gamers can look forward to three distinct waves of these collectible icons, starting next week. Furthermore, this celebration includes an extensive seven-minute preview of the game bundle and an update to the Nintendo Music app, which now boasts over two hours of new tracks.

Nintendo Unveils 'Super Mario Galaxy' Switch Online Icons and Game Rerelease Amid 40th-Anniversary Celebrations

Tokyo, Japan \u2013 In a highly anticipated announcement from its headquarters, Nintendo has revealed a series of celebratory events and releases marking the 40th anniversary of its iconic franchise, Super Mario. Central to these festivities is the upcoming re-launch of the acclaimed titles 'Super Mario Galaxy' and 'Super Mario Galaxy 2' for the Nintendo Switch console, slated for release next month. This re-release is expected to delight both long-time fans and new players alike, offering a chance to revisit these classic adventures with updated features.

Adding to the excitement, Nintendo Switch Online subscribers will soon have access to an exclusive collection of themed profile icons. These new icons will feature a variety of characters from the Super Mario Galaxy universe, including fan favorites like Mario and Rosalina. The rollout of these collectible items will occur in three distinct phases:

  • The inaugural wave is scheduled to begin on September 25th.
  • The second wave will follow shortly thereafter, launching on October 1st.
  • The final wave of icons is set to be released on October 8th.

Each icon can be acquired for 10 Platinum Points, while complementary borders and backgrounds will be available for 5 Platinum Points each, allowing players to personalize their Switch profiles.

In related news, this week also saw the conclusion of the final wave of icons for 'Kirby and the Forgotten Land Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World,' indicating Nintendo's continuous effort to provide fresh content for its online community. Beyond the icon releases, Nintendo recently showcased a comprehensive seven-minute overview trailer for the 'Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2' bundle, highlighting gameplay enhancements and additional content. Moreover, the Nintendo Music application received a significant update, incorporating 70 new tracks from Galaxy 2, totaling over two hours of additional listening pleasure for fans.

A Galactic Celebration: The Enduring Appeal of Super Mario and Nintendo's Fan Engagement Strategy

The latest announcements from Nintendo regarding the Super Mario 40th anniversary, particularly the re-release of 'Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2' and the introduction of new Switch Online icons, highlight a brilliant strategy in engaging its dedicated fanbase while also attracting new players. The decision to bring back two of the most beloved titles in the Super Mario saga for the Switch is a testament to their timeless appeal and Nintendo's understanding of player nostalgia. This move allows a new generation of gamers to experience these masterpieces, while veterans can revisit them with updated graphics and performance. The staggered release of themed icons, available for Platinum Points, cleverly incentivizes continued engagement with the Nintendo Switch Online service and its associated reward system. It's a subtle yet effective way to add value to the online subscription and foster a sense of community among players who enjoy customizing their profiles. Furthermore, the accompanying seven-minute trailer and the significant update to the Nintendo Music app demonstrate a holistic approach to celebrating the franchise, extending beyond just gameplay to encompass the rich artistic and auditory experience that defines Super Mario. This multi-faceted celebration not only honors the legacy of one of gaming's most iconic characters but also reinforces Nintendo's position as a leader in creating immersive and beloved entertainment experiences.