Super Mario 64 (N64) Review

This review was originally published in 2006, and we are updating and republishing it to mark the arrival of N64 games on Nintendo Switch Online.

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Many consider Mario’s first foray into the world of 3D: the majorityeven as one of the best video games of all time, and with good reason. It ranks as the first truly compelling realization of a 3D world in a platformer and introduced the concept of analog control to a generation of console gamers, setting the template for hundreds of copycats who would follow and the standard by which all games platform 3D would be judged forever.

For those who outrageously haven’t played this flawless classic, the story will be familiar, at least. As usual, Princess Peach has been kidnapped by the evil Bowser and it’s your job as Mario to rescue her.

The Princess Castle is the center of this great adventure. Each different room contains a canvas that, when skipped over, will transport you to a rather unique world. When entering a world, a challenge is presented that allows you to obtain a star and leave the earth; can return multiple times to the same world to complete a new challenge in order to accumulate enough stars to open plus Dodge closed doors and advance through the castle. Eventually you’ll come face to face with Bowser and hopefully say “see you later” before heading back to Peach’s house in time for tea and medals. And cake.

There’s a lot to praise about in this game, but Super Mario 64’s sheer variety is probably its greatest genius. You can run with a giant penguin down an icy slope, loot a sunken ship, climb twisting towers, and go on adventures in the desert pyramids. You won’t get bored quickly, that’s for sure.

Perhaps most notable is how solid and polished it feels. 3D platformers can often be hampered by an in-game camera, but Lakitu does his job as a camera operator admirably here. The angle of view is almost always great for keeping you in action and helping you navigate more complex environments.

Finishing Super Mario 64 won’t take long, but as with most Mario games, it will take weeks (and possibly months) to discover all the secrets it contains. The controls are as good as ever and unless you’re a particular fan of the additional DS port characters and other bonuses, there’s really no substitute for the original.

conclusion

Mario emerged into the fully formed and exceptionally well-performed 3D realm. This doesn’t feel like a rough sketch or a first stab at using new technology. Unlike many games, it doesn’t make sense here for the developers to ‘get it right’ in a sequel; However, improbably, Nintendo got just about every point right on the first try. Super Mario 64 was a momentous achievement, and one that still feels fresh, and fun – decades later. It comes with our highest recommendation.