Super Mario 64 DS

When I first played Super Mario 64 DS, I was already familiar with the legendary reputation of the original Nintendo 64 version. Bringing such a groundbreaking 3D platformer to a handheld system sounded ambitious. After spending many hours collecting Stars, unlocking characters, and exploring Peach’s Castle all over again, I can honestly say this DS remake feels both nostalgic and surprisingly fresh.

The biggest change compared to the original is that you don’t start as Mario—you begin the adventure as Yoshi. That alone immediately gives returning players something new to experience. As you progress, you unlock Mario, Luigi, and Wario, each with their own unique abilities. This addition significantly expands gameplay variety. Luigi’s higher jumps, Wario’s strength, and Yoshi’s flutter ability encourage replaying stages in different ways to access hidden areas and secret Stars.

The core structure remains the same: explore large 3D levels, complete specific objectives, and collect Power Stars to unlock new areas. Each world is filled with secrets, alternate paths, and hidden challenges. What continues to impress me is how open-ended the level design feels. You’re rarely forced into a single linear objective. Instead, you can experiment, explore, and sometimes even accidentally discover solutions.

On the Nintendo DS, the control scheme is probably the most debated aspect. Since the system lacks an analog stick, movement is handled with the D-pad, and optional touch screen controls simulate analog movement. At first, controlling a 3D platformer without a true analog stick felt awkward. Precise movements—especially during narrow platforming sections—required extra care. However, after some adjustment time, I found the controls manageable. They aren’t perfect, but they’re functional enough to fully enjoy the game.

Graphically, Super Mario 64 DS looks impressive for early DS hardware. Character models are updated with smoother textures compared to the original N64 version. Environments are slightly sharper, and the colors are vibrant. The dual-screen setup also adds small interface improvements, such as displaying the map on the lower screen. While it doesn’t revolutionize the presentation, it makes navigation slightly easier.

One of my favorite additions in this remake is the inclusion of extra mini-games. Scattered throughout the castle are rabbits that unlock stylus-based mini-games when caught. These short challenges make clever use of the DS touch screen and add replay value outside the main campaign. They’re simple but addictive, offering quick bursts of fun between Star hunts.

The boss battles remain memorable. Facing Bowser in rotating arenas or racing against Koopa the Quick still delivers excitement. Some fights are adjusted slightly to accommodate different characters, which adds variety. Collecting all 150 Stars (an increase from the original 120) is a satisfying challenge that encourages completionists to fully explore every level.

The soundtrack remains iconic. Familiar tunes like the castle theme and Bob-omb Battlefield instantly bring back memories. Even through the DS speakers, the music retains its charm and energy.

If there’s one downside, it’s that some camera angles can feel restrictive. While improved compared to the N64 version, camera control still isn’t flawless. Combined with the D-pad movement, certain platforming moments can be slightly frustrating.

Despite those minor issues, Super Mario 64 DS succeeds in delivering a portable version of one of gaming’s most influential titles while adding meaningful content. It doesn’t just copy the original—it expands on it.

Playing it felt like rediscovering a classic with new twists. Even years later, collecting Stars, unlocking characters, and exploring Peach’s Castle remains as magical as ever—proof that strong level design and creativity never go out of style.