Nintendo usually introduces new Mario games about as often as the U.S. changes presidents. Since the SNES, each new Mario iteration has been a huge, system-defining reinvention of the series. While that’s definitely made each new Mario game a major event, it’s also been frustrating for fans who long for sequels to legendary games like Super Mario 64.

Like so many aspects of its highly successful Wii, things will be different this time around for both Mario and Nintendo. Super Mario Galaxy is seeing a sequel in this generation, though Nintendo hasn’t confirmed a release date for Galaxy 2.

Nintendo hasn’t revealed much about this game, but a well-received video that played during their E3 press conference gave a tantalizing view of what should be one of the company’s most anticipated upcoming Wii games. The game looks to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, using unique level designs to transform platforming clichés into fresh and inventive set pieces. The most exciting new gameplay feature allows you to ride Mario’s faithful steed Yoshi. After that, we saw glimpses of what will no doubt be another tour de force in platforming for the plump plumber.

One of the new features that caught our attention was a drill type device that allows Mario to burrow through to the opposite side of one of the game’s spherical or circular worlds. We also noticed ice levels in which Mario could hit a switch to change certain areas between ice and water. Similar mechanics allowed him to switch the world between black & white and color as well, although we don’t know how this affects gameplay.

The already attractive game has received a boost on the visual side as well, as we saw huge enemies like giant goombas and a good deal more vegetation and plant life on some levels. Suffice to say, this is a welcome surprise from Nintendo, which seems to be going out of its way to make amends to the hardcore fans who felt slighted by last year’s show.

This preview was originally published in Issue 196 of Game Informer.