Why was Super Mario 64 so influential?
Super Mario 64, released in 1996 as a launch game for the Nintendo 64, solved problems that other early 3D games hadn't: how a character should move in three dimensions, how the camera should follow, and how to build levels for exploration instead of a straight line. Its analog control, controllable camera and open courses with multiple objectives became the template for 3D action and platform games.
What it got right
- Analog movement. The N64 controller's analog stick let Mario walk, run and turn smoothly depending on how far you pushed it. That felt natural in a way digital pads couldn't.
- A camera you could control. The camera is filmed in-game by Lakitu, and players could rotate and zoom it with the C buttons. The idea of a player-adjustable camera became standard.
- Open, objective-based levels. Each of the 15 main courses hides several Power Stars, so you return to the same space with new goals and explore it freely.
- A hub world. Peach's Castle connects the courses through paintings and doors, an idea countless games later copied.
- A rich move set. Long jumps, wall kicks, triple jumps and backflips gave players skillful ways to move, which also made it a lasting speedrunning favorite.
Its legacy
Super Mario 64 influenced 3D platformers like Banjo-Kazooie and Spyro, and its camera and control ideas carried into action-adventure games, including Nintendo's own Ocarina of Time. It was remade for Nintendo DS in 2004 and has remained one of the most popular speedrunning games for decades.
FAQ
Why was the Nintendo 64 important?
It popularized the analog stick on home consoles, offered four controller ports for local multiplayer, and hosted defining games like Super Mario 64, GoldenEye 007 and Ocarina of Time.
How many stars are in Super Mario 64?
There are 120 Power Stars. You need 70 to reach the final Bowser fight.
Is Super Mario 64 still fun today?
Yes. Its controls hold up well, though the camera feels dated next to modern games.