Sky Render on 01 January 2008
SMG hasn't redefined the genre like SM64 did, no. But it has refined it to a degree that no previous 3D platforming title can claim. Visually, aurally, atmospherically, it's a huge leap forward from what preceded it. Gameplay-wise, it's a solid evolution of the Mario control scheme we've seen in place since SM64, with a new control mechanic that will hopefully see use again, the Spin Attack. Sometimes refinement is more important than flat-out innovation from the ground up. SMB3 did the same sort of refinement for the 2D platforming genre, and it's regarded as one of the best NES games ever.
Sky Render - Sanity is for the weak.
