Released in 1996, Super Mario 64 was a revolutionary entry in the Super Mario franchise. The title, released in conjunction with the Nintendo 64, marked the series' entry into the 3D gaming world. All previous titles featured side-scrolling 2D gameplay, while Super Mario 64 allowed gamers to explore vast worlds in every direction. Although the game was not the first 3D platformer, it's widely considered to be one of the best.

In the game, it was once again up to Mario to save Princess Peach from the clutches of his arch nemesis Bowser. However, before Mario can battle Bowser to rescue the Princess, he must first collect at least 70 of 120 stars scattered throughout Peach's castle. During his quest for the stars, Mario must adventure to 15 courses, including the pirate-themed course Jolly Roger Bay, Tiny-Huge Island, and Cool Cool Mountain.

In previous Mario titles, Mario's attack maneuvers were limited mainly to jumping on foes, shooting them with fireballs, or throwing shells at them. In Super Mario 64, Mario finally has an updated set of attacks. While the standard jump-on-an-enemy-to-kill-him move remains, Mario can also punch, dropkick, and lunge forward at enemies to destroy them.

Although the game is now over a decade old, it remains a favorite of 3D platformer and RPG fans, much like certain entries in the Final Fantasy and The Legend of Zelda franchises. In addition, the title was revamped for an updated version titled Super Mario 64 DS for Nintendo's DS handheld console. Fans of the original Super Mario 64 will want to try its DS counterpart, as it features new characters, levels, and gameplay modes of the now-classic platformer.