So I've just started on this a few days ago, quite liking it. I think, whilst it rather is more of the same of Galaxy 1, I might prefer this. Feels like they've fixed it a bit, given more variety in the levels(I like the sort of overworld map system), and playing it I think I'm starting to take off my nostalgia goggles.
I play and tend to think 'this just isn't sm64' and compare it in various ways, but as I try to look at things objectively I think maybe I'm biased because I played it young, found it more of a challenge, and now find this easy. It's a problem I can't overcome or ever say either way.
However, I think for any kid starting on a 3D mario game like this, this may just be one of the most memorable games they do end up in playing? I always thought maybe I'd be able to stay immune to the biases of age, but I think I've fallen into the follies of growing old