We'll have to wait for more definite sales figures before a fair judgement can be made, but rest assured that it will be a decent financial success for the Big N. The game is crucial for the Gamecube's outlook in Japan and should entice more potential GC owners to part with their cash.

The Mario series has been a rip-roaring success for Nintendo, and the portly plumber is now the most recognised computer game character in the world (according to recent surveys). Super Mario Sunshine by all accounts does the series justice, by refining what makes the games so special with touches of pure innovation.

Those wishing to play SMS on their PAL Cubes will have to wait until the Freeloader is released in early August. You can preorder the Freeloader for a Cube Europe exclusive price of �26/�16/$26 by clicking here. You can also order the Japanese version of Super Mario Sunshine by hitting this link.