Top 7 Must-Play Games for Super Mario 64 Fans
Experience the nostalgia of Super Mario 64 with these 7 modern games that draw inspiration from the classic From the colorful worlds of Super Mario Odyssey to the quirky platformer A Hat in Time, these games will keep you entertained for hours
Super Mario 64 may still have a dedicated following, particularly within the speed-running community, but for many fans, the game has been overshadowed by newer titles. While The Super Mario Bros Movie may have served as a nostalgic reminder of this classic game, players can now explore a range of games that draw inspiration from Super Mario 64, both within and beyond the Mario franchise. With the abundance of remakes and modern updates on classic gaming, there are plenty of options available for those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane with updated graphics and enhanced gameplay features.
7 Crash Bandicoot N.Sane Trilogy
Fans of classic platformers looking for a contemporary gaming experience beyond the original versions will find the N.Sane Trilogy to be a perfect match. The original Crash Bandicoot games were a fantastic addition to the platforming genre, and despite their high difficulty level, they still provide a great deal of fun in a straightforward yet engaging manner. The N.Sane Trilogy is particularly noteworthy as the first of the three games was released in 1996, the same year as Super Mario 64. Although the games have distinct stylistic differences, they both evoke a strong sense of the mid-90s platforming scene.
A beloved game series among fans of Super Mario 64 was Banjo-Kazooie. Although the franchise hasn't seen any recent updates, a newer and vibrant platform game has been compared by many fans and critics to the style of Banjo-Kazooie.
6 Yooka-Laylee
Yooka-Laylee, a 3D platform game released in 2017, takes inspiration from Super Mario 64 with a modern twist. The game achieved record-breaking success on Kickstarter, reaching its goal within forty minutes. The captivating plot follows a chameleon and bat duo as they set out to retrieve a magical book from an evil corporation. Since its release, Yooka-Laylee has received widespread acclaim for its nostalgic platforming style, which led to the development of a sequel titled Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair.
5 Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey offers a fresh take on the Super Mario 64 style, with Mario and his new companion traveling through various worlds to save Princess Peach from Bowser's clutches. Fans of the classic game will appreciate the explorative format and level design, which hearken back to Super Mario 64. However, Odyssey also introduces new mechanics to the franchise, making it a must-play for both old and new fans alike.
For those who love the level design of Super Mario 64, New Super Lucky’s Tale offers a similar experience with its colorful platform worlds. The game is a remake of Super Lucky’s Tale, but with several improvements added to enhance the gameplay. Players control Lucky, a fox who travels through various worlds using the Book of Ages.
Lucky’s mission is to prevent a disgruntled member of the Guardian Order – of which Lucky’s sister and parents are also members – from stealing the Book of Ages. Although the original game had some flaws, the remake has received high praise for its level design and platforming style. Fans of Super Mario 64 should definitely give New Super Lucky’s Tale a try.
3 Psychonauts 2
The highly anticipated sequel of Psychonauts is a unique story with familiar platforming mechanics that players of Mario will recognize. This installment follows the young trainee, Raz, as he delves into the minds of other characters to uncover a mysterious plot.
Raz's journey in Psychonauts 2 is enhanced by its intelligent storytelling, allowing players to explore a variety of level styles and mechanics. The level design and platforming have received high praise, making the game a fantastic choice for fans of Super Mario 64 seeking a fresh and unique experience.
2 Bowser’s Fury
Bowser’s Fury is a thrilling addition to the Mario franchise, released in 2021. The game presents Mario with the challenge of saving his nemesis, Bowser, from the control of a black sludge. Fans have likened the game to a fusion of Super Mario Odyssey and Super Mario 3D World, which adds to its appeal. Although not the lengthiest new Mario game, it is a must-play for fans of both Super Mario 3D World and Super Mario 64. Conquering Bowser’s Fury is an accomplishment that all Mario enthusiasts should strive for.
1 A Hat In Time
A Hat In Time, a platform game released in 2017, has been compared to classic Nintendo 64 platformers like Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie. The game follows Hat Girl's quest to collect timepieces and return home. Although the animation style may remind some of Kirby, the gameplay is enjoyable and the levels are a vibrant blend of different gaming styles. Fans of Super Mario 64 will find A Hat In Time to be a delightful and colorful experience.
