Super Mario 64 Review: The Game That Changed Everything

I remember the first time I booted up Super Mario 64. The camera spun around Peach's Castle, and I thought "this is it. This is the future of gaming." I wasn't wrong.

Super Mario 64 didn't just launch with the Nintendo 64—it launched an entire genre. Every 3D platformer that came after owes something to this game. But here's the thing: even 28 years later, Super Mario 64 is still one of the best.

The Opening is Magic

That opening sequence is burned into my memory. Mario gets a letter from Peach, walks to the castle, and then... you're in 3D. For the first time, you can run in any direction. You can jump, you can dive, you can punch. The freedom is intoxicating.

The first time you enter a painting and find yourself in Bob-omb Battlefield, something clicks. This is what 3D gaming was supposed to be. The camera follows you, the controls feel natural, and the world feels alive.

The Controls Are Perfect

Super Mario 64's controls are legendary for a reason. The analog stick gives you precise movement. The A button gives you variable jump height. The long jump, the backflip, the wall kick—every move feels intentional and useful.

I've played modern 3D platformers that don't feel this good. The controls are tight, responsive, and they make sense. You're not fighting the controls—you're using them to express yourself.

The Levels Are Timeless

Every level in Super Mario 64 has personality. Bob-omb Battlefield is your introduction to 3D platforming. Whomp's Fortress teaches you verticality. Cool, Cool Mountain introduces ice physics. Jolly Roger Bay is underwater exploration.

The variety is incredible. You'll go from racing a penguin down a mountain to exploring a sunken ship to fighting a giant eel. Every level feels different, and every level is memorable.

The Stars System Works

The star system is brilliant. Each level has multiple objectives, and you can tackle them in any order. Want to collect all 8 red coins? Go for it. Want to race Koopa the Quick? That's an option too.

This non-linear approach was revolutionary. You're not forced down a path—you choose your own adventure. It makes the game incredibly replayable.

The Camera is... Interesting

Let's talk about the camera. It's not perfect. Lakitu follows you around, and sometimes he gets stuck. Sometimes you'll fight with the camera to see what you need to see.

But here's the thing: for 1996, this camera system was revolutionary. It was the first time a 3D game had a camera that followed you around. It's not perfect, but it works, and it set the standard.

The Music is Iconic

Koji Kondo's soundtrack is perfect. The main theme, "Dire, Dire Docks," "Koopa's Road"—every track is memorable. The music enhances every moment, from the peaceful exploration to the intense boss fights.

I can hum most of the soundtrack from memory. That's how good it is. The music doesn't just accompany the game—it defines it.

Why It Still Holds Up

Super Mario 64 holds up because it's fun. The graphics are dated, sure. The camera is clunky, absolutely. But the gameplay? The gameplay is timeless.

Modern games have better graphics, smoother cameras, and more complex mechanics. But Super Mario 64 has something they don't: pure, unadulterated fun. It's a game that makes you smile.

For Collectors

Super Mario 64 is essential for N64 collectors. It's not rare (loose $20-$40, CIB $60-$100), but it's one of the most important games ever made. Every N64 collection needs this game.

The game has held its value well because it's still in demand. People want to play this game, and they want to own it. That's the mark of a true classic.

Final Thoughts

Super Mario 64 isn't just a great game—it's a landmark. It's the game that proved 3D platforming could work. It's the game that launched a thousand imitators. And 28 years later, it's still one of the best.

If you've never played Super Mario 64, you're missing out on gaming history. If you have played it, you know exactly what I'm talking about. This is a game that deserves its legendary status.

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