How Long to Beat Super Mario 64 DS: A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The burning question for any gamer diving into a classic like Super Mario 64 DS is, “How long will this adventure take?” The answer, as with many games, depends on your playstyle and goals. If you’re laser-focused on the main objective, you can expect to spend around 14½ hours completing the game. However, for those seeking to experience every nook and cranny and achieve 100% completion, you’re looking at a journey closer to 27½ hours. This significant difference reflects the game’s richness and the varied levels of challenge it offers.
Main Objective vs. Completionist Run
The distinction between a core playthrough and a completionist run is crucial to understanding the time commitment involved. A standard playthrough of Super Mario 64 DS focuses on collecting the minimum number of Power Stars required to progress through the story. This involves exploring the various levels, defeating bosses, and ultimately confronting Bowser. For a player who is familiar with platformers and wants to experience the core story, around 14½ hours is sufficient.
A 100% completion run, on the other hand, involves collecting all 150 stars, unlocking all characters (Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, and Wario), finding all the secret stars, and fully exploring each level. This approach requires meticulous exploration, a keen eye for detail, and overcoming the game’s more challenging platforming sections. The extra time it takes to reach 27½ hours comes from the additional star challenges, finding hidden areas, and mastering the game’s controls.
Factors Influencing Playtime
Several factors can influence how long it takes you to beat Super Mario 64 DS. These include:
- Familiarity with the Original: Players who have experience with the original Super Mario 64 on the Nintendo 64 will likely find the DS version easier and quicker to complete, as they’re already familiar with the level layouts and objectives.
- Skill Level: Your platforming proficiency plays a significant role. If you’re skilled in this genre, you’ll likely breeze through certain sections that might stump a beginner.
- Exploration Style: Are you a player who likes to rush through levels, or are you more inclined to explore every corner? Thorough explorers will naturally take more time to achieve full completion.
- Use of Guides: Employing online guides and walkthroughs will definitely cut down your playtime, especially for those elusive stars. However, this approach diminishes the sense of discovery and accomplishment.
Additional Content in Super Mario 64 DS
The DS remake offers more than just a port of the original. Super Mario 64 DS introduces several new features, including new characters, minigames, and, crucially, additional stars. These enhancements provide a reason for even seasoned Mario 64 veterans to revisit the game. The extra content is a major contributor to the difference in playtime between a standard playthrough and a completionist run.
Unlocking Characters
One of the most engaging aspects of the DS version is unlocking the new characters. Luigi, Yoshi, and Wario join Mario on his quest, each bringing their unique abilities to the game. Unlocking these characters and then using their abilities to obtain additional stars adds a new layer of replayability.
Is Super Mario 64 DS Worth Playing?
Despite being a remake, Super Mario 64 DS is a valuable experience for both newcomers and veterans. The game’s classic charm, coupled with the added content, makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a fun, challenging, and rewarding platformer. It’s an excellent title for those who enjoy a mix of exploration, platforming, and puzzle-solving, offering a good balance of difficulty and accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Super Mario 64 DS to further enrich your understanding of the game:
1. Is the DS version of Mario 64 better than the original?
The DS version has more content, including additional stars and playable characters, which some players find appealing. However, the original Super Mario 64 is often preferred for its superior controls. Both versions offer unique experiences, and the best one depends on individual preference.
2. Is Super Mario 64 easy?
Completing the core campaign of Super Mario 64 is generally considered accessible, even for those new to gaming. The game provides sufficient easier stars to reach the required 70 for the final boss. However, some stars, particularly for 100% completion, are quite challenging.
3. What happens when you get all 150 stars in Super Mario 64 DS?
Collecting all 150 stars unlocks a cannon outside the castle, providing access to the rooftop. There, you’ll find a green rabbit as Luigi and a ? block as Mario that gives you the wing cap.
4. Is it possible to get 121 stars in Mario 64?
There are 120 stars in the original Super Mario 64 and 150 stars in Super Mario 64 DS. The idea of a 121st star refers to other Mario games where a “Bowser’s star” may be available but not in this game.
5. Is it possible to beat Super Mario 64 DS without Mario?
While not the primary method, you can certainly complete portions of the game without using Mario by focusing on Luigi, Yoshi, and Wario. Each character can get stars that the others can’t
6. How rare is Mario 64?
The original Super Mario 64 is considered a defining and popular game for the N64. Although it’s not the absolute rarest Mario game, it does have some very rare variants, especially sealed copies.
7. Why is Mario 64 so special?
Mario 64 is widely influential due to its dynamic camera system and 360-degree analog control, which established a new standard for 3D platform games.
8. Is Mario 64 30 or 60 fps?
The normal framerate of Super Mario 64 is 30 FPS. The DS remake also maintains this 30 FPS framerate.
9. Why is Mario 64 so difficult for some?
The lack of precise mid-air control and Mario’s momentum can make certain platforming sections challenging, contributing to the game’s difficulty for some.
10. What’s the hardest Mario game to beat?
Generally, Super Mario Sunshine is regarded as the most challenging 3D Mario game, largely due to its precision-based mechanics.
11. Is Mario 64 DS worth getting?
Yes, if you own a DS. It’s a great remake of the original, with new levels, characters, and minigames. However, it’s generally considered not as good as the original due to the control limitations.
12. Why is Mario 64 DS different?
It’s a remake with enhanced graphics, additional playable characters, new collectibles, a multiplayer mode, and extra minigames that set it apart from the N64 version.
13. Why is Wario in Mario 64 DS?
Wario is an unlockable character who is not required to beat the game, but he is needed to collect certain Power Stars that other characters can’t reach.
14. Was Mario Sunshine 60fps?
Mario Sunshine was originally intended to run at 60fps, but it was compromised to 30fps for the final release due to time constraints.
15. Is Super Mario 64 good for your brain?
Studies have indicated that playing Super Mario 64 can lead to an increase in gray matter in the hippocampus and cerebellum, brain regions crucial for memory and motor control.
By understanding the factors influencing playtime and exploring these FAQs, you can be fully prepared to tackle the world of Super Mario 64 DS and enjoy every moment of your gaming adventure. Whether you’re in it for a quick jaunt or a full completionist run, this game offers an enduring and rewarding experience.