At the very beginning a Toad informs Mario that Peach has been captured by Bowser...again. Mario, just as always, has to get enough Stars to reach Bowser and defeat him. This time around, Mario needs to get through Bowser's Airship Armada, only to discover that he also has a Space Fleet. After defeating him at both of the bases, he retreats to his Star Factory, where the final battle ensues.