19 – Super Mario 64
As I’ve said before, my list is pretty subjective. I think that SM64, with its tight controls and great level design, is one of the N64 games that have aged better and if I were trying to do an “objective” list it would probably be in the top 5. But back in the day, although I liked it – and felt impressed the first time I saw it – it wasn’t one of my favorite games on the console. Every time I replay it, though – or its DS remake (even with the D-PAD controls the game’s still great)- I find it better.
Super Mario 64 was truly revolutionary, the first “real” 3-D platformer and the game that showcased the need of an analogical stick in the 3-D world. It’s influence in gaming design has been immense. But it wasn’t only a pioneering game; it’s also brilliant in every detail: from the mission based levels (that change slightly each time you replay them to get a different star) to the incredible hub that was the castle and the iconic soundtrack. The re-imagination of all the elements of the Mario franchise in order to adapt it to the 3-D environment is impressive, and it’s difficult to believe that it was done so well.
When I’ve forgotten almost everything about other games I played through the years, I still remember some details of SM64, like the first time I found that “Ness-like” monster inside the underground level, or the owl you find in the second level. If I re-do this list next year, I’m pretty sure that SM64 will be some positions up.
