Game Boy Advance Remake of Super Mario 64 in Progress

A dedicated modder is painstakingly recreating Super Mario 64 for the Game Boy Advance. Given the significant hardware limitations of the GBA compared to the original N64, this ambitious undertaking is proving remarkably successful.

Super Mario 64, released in 1996, holds a special place in gaming history as Nintendo's groundbreaking foray into 3D platforming and a beloved classic. Its initial N64 release sold nearly 12 million copies.

Joshua Barretto, a passionate Super Mario fan, recently showcased impressive progress on their GBA recreation. Initially attempting a direct port, Barretto encountered insurmountable challenges and opted for a complete code rebuild. The results are astonishing. A mere two months after sharing a rudimentary video featuring a triangular Mario, a playable version of the game's first level is now a reality.

GBA Super Mario 64 Development Update

Barretto's GBA port currently boasts a relatively smooth framerate of 20-30 FPS, with Mario executing core maneuvers like somersaults, crouches, and long jumps. While imperfections remain, the achievement of running this iconic title on the GBA is truly remarkable. Although still in its early phases, Barretto aims to deliver a fully playable version. The project's success, however, hinges on avoiding a potential cease-and-desist order from Nintendo, known for its protective stance on fan projects.

Super Mario 64 has recently experienced a surge in community activity, with modders and dedicated players continuously pushing the game's boundaries. A recent example includes a player completing the game without using the A button to jump—a feat accomplished only after an 86-hour marathon exploiting a rare Wii Virtual Console glitch. Another player recently achieved the seemingly impossible, opening a previously inaccessible door in the game's Snow World level without the aid of mods.