As we move closer and closer to May 23, I find myself becoming ridiculously excited about Super Mario Galaxy 2. I was trying to hold back a little bit, but this gameplay trailer just released by Nintendo has done wonders to make me wish I was playing it right this very second. The trailer shows off the new overworld, which is less of a hub (like in Super Mario Galaxy) and more of a branching map. We also get a look at some of the mustachioed plumber's new powers, as well as returning favorites--hey there, Bee Suit! I sure missed you!

Super Mario Galaxy was one of my favorite games in the stellar year for gaming that was 2007, and I think Mario Galaxy 2 is definitely a good way to start the summer. From what I've seen so far, it looks like SMG2 wants to retain everything that was great about the first game, while adding enough new features to make the sequel feel fresh and original. Oh yeah, and have I mentioned Yoshi? Yes, I definitely have, but it's worth repeating. Yoshi. Hell yes.