Super Mario 64 is among the most influential video games of all time. Not only was it the high-jumping plumber's first adventure in a 3D space, but it also paved the way for countless 3D platformers – perhaps most notably Banjo Kazooie – to push the genre further. Its distinguished legacy is also matched by its quality; even nowadays, it holds up as a capable platformer.
Given its importance and acclaim, it's no wonder that Super Mario 64 was re-released on nearly every Nintendo home console since the Nintendo 64. But with so many versionsout there, one can't help but ponder: "Which is the best one to play?" Much like the rationale behind many of Nintendo's business decisions, the answer is a little complicated.
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Super Mario 64 on The Nintendo 64
The version that started it all. While Super Mario 64 is certainly worth playing these days, there are a few reasons why the Nintendo 64 might not be the best platform to play it on. For starters, both the game and console are rather expensive, and there are always complications that can arise when playing a 25-year-old game on equally old hardware. Finally, there's the issue of having to use the Nintendo 64 controller — perhaps Nintendo's most uncomfortable game-pad. Suffice to say, this is a version to stay away from. There are far better ways to revisit this classic title.
Super Mario 64 DS
This DS remake is the most content-rich version of Mario 64, and it has quite a few features not seen in the original game. The most immediate change is the addition of Yoshi, Luigi, and Wario as playable characters, each possessing their own unique abilities. Character models have also been retouched, and there are now 150 total stars to collect, compared to the Nintendo 64 version's 120. Furthermore, extra game modes including various Mario-themed mini-games and a competitive multiplayer mode further make this version stand out from other Mario 64 re-releases.
The one drawback of Super Mario 64 DS is its control scheme. Mario 64 was initially designed for play with an analog stick, but the level of precision one offers simply can't be replicated with the DS' directional pad. That said, playing the game on a 3DS via backwards compatibility allows players to make use of the system's circle pad, which feels like a suitable substitute for an analog stick.
Super Mario 64 on The Virtual Console
Mario 64 was among the many vintage titles released for the Wii and Wii U's Virtual Consoles. This version does have support for different controllers, such as the GameCube controller, but there's hardly any discernible difference beyond that. It's no longer available on the Wii, as the Wii Shop shut down a couple of years ago, but it's still available on the Wii U for $10 — a great value for one of gaming's all-time classics.
Super Mario 64 DS on The Wii U's Virtual Console
This might seem like an ideal way to play Mario 64's remake, but the Wii U's awkward display presented when emulating DS games makes trying to play Mario 64 DS on the big screen a frustrating endeavor. Furthermore, launch-era DS graphics don't quite look as good on a large display as they do on a cramped little screen.
Super Mario 3D All-Stars on The Switch
The latest reissue of Mario 64 doesn't differ much from previous ones, but it does stand out thanks to the system it's on. Since the Switch is portable, this marks the first time the original version of the game can be taken on the go. It's a valuable feature that makes the game significantly more playable for those leading busy lives. Unfortunately, this version is no longer available for purchase via Nintendo's eShop; one will have to buy a likely price-hiked physical copy through a reseller if they wish to play the most modern version of Mario 64.
Which Version of Mario 64 Is The Best?
The answer to this question is dependent on what folks are looking for from Mario 64. If one simply wishes to replay the original game, then the Wii U or Switch versions (assuming one can find a copy of 3D All-Stars) are the best routes to go. But for those looking for an updated version of the game, it's hard not to recommend Super Mario 64 DS, but only on the 3DS, as to avoid the DS' fickle controls and the Wii U's lackluster display.
Super Mario 3D All-Stars is out now for Nintendo Switch.
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