Switch Retro Spotlight: Super Mario 64

A revolutionary platformer

Written by A.J. Maciejewski for Switch Retro Spotlight on July 21, 2023 📺

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I've been enjoying so many Nintendo games recently so why not discuss a big one? Here's the epically iconic Super Mario 64.

│ Super Mario 64 is a classic Nintendo 64 game that's available with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription. 🎮

I'm one of those '90s kids that got a PlayStation instead of a Nintendo 64 and the one game that made me the most jealous was Super Mario 64. Being a huge Super Mario fan for years only to see being able to play as him in full 3D completely blew my mind. Of course, I got my hands on a Nintendo 64 a few years later and had an absolute blast with this delightful platformer. One thing that still sets it apart from most 3D platformers is that its stages are essentially playgrounds that you can explore as you figure out all sorts of fun objectives. In fact, even after all the years since it released, there really aren't many games quite like it so it has definitely stood the test of time. 👍 v1d30chumz 159-100-13-177

The goal of Super Mario 64 is to essentially collect stars which unlocks more levels. Simply acquiring the stars is a treat because you're given a wide variety of tasks to accomplish in order to do so. For example, you can win races against a Koopa and a penguin, find a hidden slide, shoot yourself out of a cannon after aiming perfectly, and defeat a variety of bosses. The gameplay is frantic fun that has Mario run and jump around levels as you aim to collect all 120 stars. Well, the controls are admittedly rather slippery and the camera can be frustrating to deal with but it's still a ton of fun, especially after you adapt to these aspects after playing for long enough. 😅

It's amazing to think that such an elaborate and innovative game released all the way back in 1996 and what makes Super Mario 64 even more enjoyable is that it features fantastic music and oodles of charm. Sure, some of the 3D models are a bit goofy but the amount of quirky personalities that you'll come across is just awesome. It truly is one bright, colourful, and lively world that's a joy to explore. ⭐

One thing that I can't stop thinking about ever since I picked up Super Mario 64 again is how incredible a remake would be. Can you imagine if Nintendo made a modern-looking iteration of this classic platformer with improved controls and camera? That would be amazing! Knowing Nintendo, they'd probably add a few new levels, too, and some surprising features. Please make it happen! 🤞

I could go on all day about how much I love Super Mario 64 but I'll stop here. If you're a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member, definitely play it and try to get all 120 stars! Accomplishing that would make you one cool chum in my books. 😎