Last Updated on January 9, 2026 by writer
Super Mario Galaxy is one of Nintendo’s most iconic 3D platformers, originally released on the Wii and later included in Super Mario 3D All-Stars for the Nintendo Switch. The game redefined Mario gameplay with gravity-based mechanics, spherical worlds, and cinematic level design. Its Switch release renewed interest among players who want to experience Super Mario Galaxy on PC using Nintendo Switch emulators like Yuzu, Ryujinx, and Eden.
This guide covers Super Mario Galaxy Switch ROM (NSP/XCI), how to play it on PC, emulator compatibility, and system requirements in a clear, no-nonsense format.
Game Overview
- Game Name: Super Mario Galaxy
- Developer / Publisher: Nintendo
- Release Year (Switch): 2020 (via Super Mario 3D All-Stars)
- Genre: 3D Platformer
- Mode: Single Player
Super Mario Galaxy features:
- Gravity-defying spherical planets
- Precise platforming with motion-inspired mechanics
- Cinematic orchestral soundtrack
- Classic Mario power-ups with creative twists
- Hub-based progression across multiple galaxies
Despite its age, the physics-driven level design demands accurate emulation for smooth gameplay.
Can You Play Super Mario Galaxy on PC?
Yes — legally, if you own the game.
To play Super Mario Galaxy on PC, you must:
- Own Super Mario 3D All-Stars for Nintendo Switch
- Dump the game from your own Switch console
- Dump prod keys and matching Switch firmware
- Use a compatible emulator (Yuzu, Ryujinx, or Eden)
Downloading pre-dumped NSP/XCI ROMs from third-party sources is illegal in most regions.
Emulator Compatibility
Yuzu Emulator
- Excellent performance with Vulkan
- Supports resolution scaling and performance mods
- Faster load times on modern hardware
Recommended for: High-performance and gaming PCs
Ryujinx Emulator
- High accuracy and visual stability
- Very consistent physics and camera behavior
- Minimal graphical glitches
Recommended for: Accuracy and stable gameplay
Eden Emulator
- Lightweight and simplified setup
- Lower system overhead
- Rapidly improving Switch compatibility
Recommended for: Mid-range PCs and casual setups
System Requirements
Minimum PC Requirements
- CPU: Intel i5-8400 / Ryzen 5 2600
- GPU: GTX 1060 / RX 580
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 8–10 GB free
- OS: Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
- Graphics API: Vulkan 1.1+
Recommended PC Requirements
- CPU: Intel i7-9700K / Ryzen 7 3700X
- GPU: RTX 2060 / RX 6600 XT
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: SSD recommended
Legal Game Dumping Explained
To stay compliant with copyright laws:
- Dump your own Switch cartridge or digital copy
- Extract:
- Game file (NSP or XCI)
- Prod Keys
- Compatible Switch firmware
⚠️ Super Mario Galaxy (Switch version) requires valid keys and firmware to boot correctly on emulators.
Performance Optimization Tips
- Use Vulkan renderer
- Enable async shader compilation
- Increase internal resolution gradually
- Disable unnecessary mods
- Keep GPU drivers updated
- Run emulator and game files from an SSD
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Super Mario Galaxy free on PC?
No. You must legally own Super Mario 3D All-Stars.
Which emulator runs Super Mario Galaxy best?
Yuzu: Best raw performance
Ryujinx: Best accuracy and stability
Eden: Lightweight alternative
Does Super Mario Galaxy support updates or patches?
Yes, when dumped legally from your own Switch.
Final Thoughts
Super Mario Galaxy remains a timeless masterpiece, and modern Switch emulators allow players to experience it on PC at higher resolutions and smoother frame rates — legally, when the original game is owned. With proper dumping, correct prod keys, and updated firmware, emulators like Yuzu, Ryujinx, and Eden deliver an excellent experience.
For prod keys, firmware, emulator setup guides, and information on other Nintendo Switch ROMs, always use files dumped from your own Nintendo Switch for a safe and compliant setup. Click Here For more Switch Roms