10 Video Game Secrets You Didn't See Coming

Whilst the divide in styles between 2D and 3D Sonic is very clear, many gamers don’t consider that the blue blur’s once-rival has gone down a similar path in the last 25 years. 2D Mario lives on as we know it, hardly innovating but at least providing quality experiences, whereas 3D Mario games are their own beast entirely.

Since Super Mario 64, these titles tend to be a solo experience from both the perspective of the player and the protagonist. Rumours would persist about being able to play as the plumber’s lanky, lily-livered brother in Mario 64 and Mario Sunshine but Mario was the one true player character.

Which is what made the reward for completing Super Mario Galaxy such a surprise and such a joy all at once.

Whilst Luigi starts as a supporting character in the game, offering up Power Stars as Mario makes progress, players in 2007 were flabbergasted when they were greeted with the message “you can now play as Luigi” after grabbing every Star and beating Bowser.

This secret second playthrough is all the better because Luigi is more than just a palette swap for Mario. As an ode to Super Mario Bros 2, Luigi has his own trademark superior jumping skills and control style meaning that another run through the game is sure to feel different… as well as long overdue.