How Many Hours Does It Take to Beat Super Mario 64 DS?
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The answer to how many hours it takes to beat Super Mario 64 DS varies significantly depending on your playstyle and completion goals. For players primarily focused on the main objectives, a playthrough will typically take around 14 and a half hours. However, if you’re a completionist aiming for 100% completion, expect to dedicate approximately 27 and a half hours to the game. This substantial difference in playtime highlights the depth and replayability of Super Mario 64 DS, offering a rewarding experience for both casual and hardcore gamers.
Diving Deeper into Super Mario 64 DS Playtime
The distinction between a ‘main objective’ playthrough and a 100% completion run lies in the number of Power Stars collected. A standard playthrough will require you to obtain a sufficient number of Stars to progress through the game and defeat Bowser. A 100% playthrough, however, involves collecting all 150 Power Stars, which often means exploring every nook and cranny of the game world, solving optional puzzles, and mastering the controls for each playable character.
Factors Influencing Playtime
Several factors can influence how long it takes to complete Super Mario 64 DS:
- Prior Experience: Players familiar with the original Super Mario 64 on the Nintendo 64 might find the DS version quicker to complete due to their existing knowledge of level layouts and strategies.
- Skill Level: Newcomers to the game, or players less experienced with 3D platformers, may take longer to adapt to the controls and level design, thus increasing their overall playtime.
- Exploration Habits: Players who thoroughly explore each area before progressing to the next will likely accumulate more hours than those who take a more direct route to each objective.
- Multiplayer Engagement: While the Versus Mode does not contribute directly to the main completion, some players might find themselves spending a considerable amount of time engaging in multiplayer battles, adding to the overall time spent on the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Super Mario 64 DS
1. How many courses are in Super Mario 64 DS?
Super Mario 64 DS features a total of 15 main courses, along with various hub areas. These include 4 in the castle lobby, 1 in the courtyard, 4 in the basement, 4 on the 1st floor, and 2 in the tower. These levels offer a diverse range of challenges and environments for players to explore.
2. What is the longest Mario game?
While many Mario games are lengthy, Mario & Luigi: Dream Team is often cited as one of the longer experiences, with a typical playthrough taking around 40 hours. Other long-form titles include Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door and Paper Mario: The Origami King. The length is mostly due to their RPG elements and storytelling.
3. Is Super Mario 64 DS 2-player?
Yes, Super Mario 64 DS features a VS Mode, a competitive wireless multiplayer mode exclusive to the DS version. This mode allows up to four players to battle and compete for stars and coins on four unique maps.
4. Is Super Mario 64 DS different from the original?
Yes, Super Mario 64 DS is a remake of the original 1996 Nintendo 64 game. It features enhanced graphics, new characters, additional collectibles, a multiplayer mode, and a collection of mini-games. These changes make it a distinct experience from the original, expanding upon the gameplay.
5. Is Super Mario 64 DS worth getting?
Absolutely! If you own a Nintendo DS, this title is highly recommended. It offers a faithful recreation of a classic platformer while incorporating new elements, making it both nostalgic and fresh. While not strictly “better” than the original, it is a phenomenal experience in its own right.
6. Do you start as Yoshi in Mario 64 DS?
Yes, you begin Super Mario 64 DS as Yoshi. He is the only playable character until you collect eight stars. This adds a unique spin to the early game and encourages you to explore his special abilities.
7. Is Super Mario 64 DS a remake?
Yes, Super Mario 64 DS is officially considered an enhanced remake of the Nintendo 64 classic. It builds upon the original game with new features, characters, and gameplay elements.
8. Is Luigi playable in Mario 64 DS?
Yes, Luigi is a playable character in Super Mario 64 DS. He is unlockable after rescuing him from King Boo. Each of the four characters has unique abilities and strengths.
9. How do you unlock Luigi in Super Mario 64 DS?
Luigi is unlocked after obtaining 15 Power Stars. This allows you to enter Big Boo’s Haunt and defeat King Boo, freeing Luigi in the process.
10. What is the shortest Mario game?
Super Mario Land is often cited as one of the shortest Mario games, typically taking around 1 hour to beat. This makes it a great option for a quick playthrough.
11. Is Mario 25 years old?
Interestingly, according to creator Shigeru Miyamoto, Mario is roughly 24 to 25 years old. This information contradicts his older appearance, making him a surprisingly young character.
12. What happens when you get all 150 stars in Super Mario 64 DS?
Collecting all 150 stars in Super Mario 64 DS unlocks special bonuses. The cannon outside the castle becomes accessible, allowing access to the rooftop, where you can find a green rabbit as Luigi and a ? block enabling flight with Mario.
13. How many Bowser levels are in Mario 64?
In Super Mario 64, there are three Bowser levels: Bowser in the Dark World, Bowser in the Fire Sea, and Bowser in the Sky. These levels serve as challenging boss encounters and culminate the experience.
14. Why is Wario in Mario 64 DS?
Wario is an unlockable character included in Super Mario 64 DS to add new gameplay mechanics. He has unique abilities needed to collect stars not accessible by other characters, adding to the replayability of the game.
15. Is Waluigi unlockable in Super Mario 64 DS?
Unfortunately, Waluigi is NOT unlockable in Super Mario 64 DS. Despite many rumors to the contrary, he was never included as a playable character in this title.
Final Thoughts
Super Mario 64 DS offers a rich, replayable experience whether you aim to beat the main storyline or strive for 100% completion. The game’s design, characters, and additional features make it a worthy addition to any Nintendo DS library. Regardless of your playstyle, prepare to invest anywhere from 14 to 27 hours (or even more if you delve into multiplayer) into this platforming masterpiece. Its enduring charm, combined with fresh additions, solidifies its status as a classic.