When Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island hit the SNES in 1995, it turned heads with its bold art style and unique gameplay. More than just a sequel, it was a creative reimagining of the Mario formula, starring Yoshi in his most charming and challenging adventure yet.
A Baby on Board
The story is simple yet endearing: Baby Mario has been separated from his brother, Luigi, and it’s up to a team of Yoshis to reunite the two while thwarting the sinister Kamek and Baby Bowser. The stakes may be lighthearted, but the journey is filled with memorable moments that tug at your heartstrings—especially when Baby Mario floats away crying after a mistimed hit!
A Crayon-Colored Dreamworld
The game’s hand-drawn, pastel aesthetic was a bold departure from the traditional pixel art of its predecessor. Each level looks like a living coloring book, with playful animations and vibrant environments ranging from sunny meadows to eerie caves. The art style hasn’t aged a day, making Yoshi’s Island as visually stunning now as it was in the ‘90s.
Eggs, Enemies, and Ingenious Gameplay
At its core, Yoshi’s Island is a platformer, but it’s far from ordinary. Yoshi’s ability to eat enemies, turn them into eggs, and then throw those eggs adds a unique layer of strategy to every level. Precision aiming becomes second nature as you solve puzzles, uncover secrets, and take down bosses. The addition of Yoshi’s flutter jump adds just enough leniency to tricky platforming sections without sacrificing challenge.
Boss Battles: Big, Bold, and Brilliant
From a massive, growing slime blob to a raven orbiting the moon, the boss battles in Yoshi’s Island are some of the most creative in any SNES game. They’re not just about dodging and attacking but often involve clever uses of Yoshi’s egg-throwing mechanics. Each fight is a memorable set piece that tests your skills and imagination.
Sounds That Stick with You
Koji Kondo’s soundtrack is another standout. The music ranges from cheerful tunes in grassy fields to haunting melodies in darker levels. Combined with the sound effects—like Yoshi’s adorable “brrrr-ing” tongue sound and Baby Mario’s infamous crying—the audio design completes the whimsical yet emotionally engaging tone of the game.
Secrets Galore
For those who love a challenge, Yoshi’s Island offers a wealth of collectibles, from red coins to flowers hidden in every level. 100% completion isn’t for the faint of heart, as the game tests your reflexes, patience, and platforming precision. Yet, the satisfaction of fully mastering a level is unmatched.
Verdict: A Timeless Adventure
Yoshi’s Island is a masterpiece that blends charm, innovation, and challenge into one unforgettable package. Its creative gameplay mechanics and gorgeous visuals ensure it remains a standout title, even decades later. Whether you’re a fan of platformers or just great games in general, this one is a must-play.
Score: 9.5/10
Other Posts:
- Mischief Makers – A Shake-Up on the N64
- Conker’s Bad Fur Day: The N64’s Foul-Mouthed Masterpiece
- Banjo-Kazooie – A Magical Adventure
- Spyro the Dragon – A Treasure Worth Collecting
- Star Fox 64 – A Space Odyssey