Super Mario 64 DS (スーパーマリオ64DS, Sūpā Mario Rokujūyon Dī Esu?) is an enhanced remake of the 1996 Nintendo 64, platform game Super Mario 64, produced by Nintendo for the Nintendo DS handheld game console. The game was a launch title for the Nintendo DS, released in North America and Japan in 2004; it was later released in Europe and Australia in 2005.
Nintendo Entertainment Analysis and Development, who produced the original version of the game, first displayed the game as a multiplayer demonstration at the 2004 E3 titled Super Mario 64 ×4. In addition to revised graphics, the remake includes new characters, a multiplayer mode, and minigames. As with the original title, the plot of Super Mario 64 DS centers on rescuing Princess Peach from Bowser, with slight changes to accommodate the additional characters. Yoshi is the initial protagonist in this version.
Overall, the game was critically and commercially successful. It won video game awards, and received positive comments from the gaming press, that focused on elements of the single-player mode. The multiplayer mode and lack of analog controls used in Super Mario 64 were common complaints among reviewers. The game sold well in territories, was ranked on best-selling lists, and, as of March 2008, has sold 6.12t million copies worldwide.
Super Mario 64 DS is a 3D platformer where the player controls four different characters through numerous levels to collect hidden Power Stars. Each level is an enclosed world in which the player is free to wander in all directions and discover the environment without time limits. The worlds are inhabited with enemies that attack the characters as well as friendly creatures that provide assistance, offer information, or ask for help. The player gathers stars in each course; some stars only appear after completing certain tasks, often hinted at by the name of the course. These challenges include defeating a boss, solving puzzles, racing an opponent, and gathering coins. As the player collects stars, more areas of the castle become accessible.[3][4][5]
