Castle Secret Stars
Princess Peach's Castle itself holds 15 hidden Power Stars that are not tied to any specific course. These stars are found by exploring secret passages, interacting with objects, or completing mini-challenges within the castle walls. Examples include the MIPS rabbit stars, the Bowser in the Sky secret, and the stars obtained from the various Toad encounters. Many of these stars require a keen eye for detail and a willingness to experiment with Mario's moveset. For instance, the MIPS rabbit, a fast-moving creature, can be caught multiple times, with each capture yielding a Power Star. The "Bowser in the Sky" secret star is obtained after defeating Bowser in the final battle. Other stars might be hidden behind paintings, accessible only after performing specific actions, or revealed by collecting a certain number of coins within the castle itself. The castle acts as a hub world, and its secrets are desed to reward thorough exploration and mastery of Mario's abilities. Pay close attention to any unusual textures on walls, suspicious platforms, or areas that seem inaccessible at first glance, as these often hide the path to a coveted Power Star.