Super Mario 64 - Remakes and Sequels

Remakes and Sequels

Super Mario 64 was first re-released in Japan on July 18, 1997, as Super Mario 64 Rumble Pak Support Version (スーパーマリオ64 振動パック対応バージョン, Sūpā Mario 64: Shindō Pakku Taiō Bājon?). This version adds support for Nintendo's Rumble Pak peripheral and includes voice acting from the English version. In 1998, Super Mario 64 was re-released in Europe and North America as part of the Player's Choice line, a selection of games with high sales sold for a reduced price. The game was later released on the Wii's Virtual Console service in the United States on November 19, 2006, and in other territories the following weeks. This release adds compatibility with the Nintendo GameCube and Classic controllers, and enhances the resolution to 480p.

An enhanced remake for the Nintendo DS called Super Mario 64 DS was available for the launch of the handheld system in 2004. Yoshi, Luigi, and Wario are additional playable characters, and the game features slightly altered graphics, additional stars, courses, touchscreen mini-games, and a multiplayer mode. In addition, the number of Power Stars has been raised from 120 to 150. Reviews were mostly positive, and by March 2008, Super Mario 64 DS sold 6.12 million copies worldwide.

A direct sequel titled Super Mario 64 2 was planned for the Nintendo 64DD. Shigeru Miyamoto mentioned at E3's 1997 convention that he was "just getting started" on the project. In May 1999, Super Mario 64 2 was reported to be released in late 1999; however, the game was canceled due to the failure of the 64DD, as well as lack of progress in the game's development.

Instead, Super Mario 64 was followed by other sequels on subsequent Nintendo systems. For example, Super Mario Sunshine for the Nintendo GameCube and Super Mario Galaxy for the Wii. The sequels built on Super Mario 64's core design of enhancement items and open ended gameplay. One sequel, Super Mario Galaxy 2, features a remake of the Whomp's Fortress level.