Super Mario 64: Difference between revisions

Super Mario 64 was the first 3D game in the [[Mario]] series, and though it was not the first-ever 3D platformer, it revolutionized and defined the genre, much as [[Super Mario Bros.]] defined the 2D sidescrolling platformer. Indeed, Super Mario 64 was considered so revolutionary that it has become the benchmark for all later games in the genre. In leaping from two to three dimensions, Super Mario 64 replaced the linear obstacle courses of traditional platform games with vast worlds set up with multiple and diverse missions, with an emphasis on exploration. While doing so, it managed nonetheless to preserve the feel of earlier Mario games, including many of their gameplay elements and characters. It is widely acclaimed by critics and players alike as one of the greatest video games of all time. As in the earlier Mario titles for the [[Nintendo|NES]] and [[Super Nintendo|SNES]], Mario has to save [[Princess Peach]] from [[Bowser]]. To do this, Mario must find [[Power Star]]s scattered throughout [[Princess Peach's Castle]], of which there are 120. Collecting 70 stars allows Mario to fight Bowser for the final time, and finish the game, but a secret reward awaits players that collect all 120. The castle itself is merely a central hub; most stars are found in numerous courses which are accessed by jumping into paintings found in the castle. Mario can perform a large variety of actions. He can walk, run, crouch, crawl, swim, climb and jump at great heights or distances using the game controller's analog stick and buttons. As jumping was Mario's signature move in earlier games, particular attention was paid to this category of actions. In addition to regular jumping, there are multiple special jumps that can be executed by combining a regular [[Jump]] with other actions, including the extra high double and triple jumps (jumping two and three times in a row, respectively), the long jump, and somersault. There are also special maneuvers, such as wall jumping, jumping from one wall to another in rapid succession to reach otherwise too high areas.

Additionally, Mario has a number of physical attacks other than jumping. Mario's standard attack is the punch, and attacking in the air becomes a [[Attacks|kick jump]]. Attacking while running will cause Mario to lunge forward. Crouching while in the air will execute a power stomp (also called the ground pound). Crouching while running and then immediately attacking will execute a slide kick. Mario is able to pick up certain items and carry them around, an ability which is used to solve various puzzles. Mario can also swim underwater at various speeds. Mario's life slowly diminishes while underwater (representing how long he can hold his breath), and he must either collect coins to replenish it, or return to the surface so as not to drown.