'Super Mario 64' Got a Hi-Def Makeover (Update)

A computer science student remade "Super Mario 64" with high-definition graphics.

Not Available Lead
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Not Available Lead

Super Mario 64, the seminal 1990s video game, got a high-definition reboot. Developer Erik Roystan Ross created an HD version of the game, originally only for Nintendo 64 console (RIP), that anyone can play on Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems for free.

The remake replicates the first level of the original game, Bomb-Omb Battlefield, complete with angry goombas and treacherous bomb-ombs. The difference is this game has sleeker graphics that actually look like they belong in the 21st century. Mario's chunky, pixilated schnozz is gone, charming as it was. 

The computer science student and hero of the day Roystan Ross built this version of the game in a programming language called Unity, which is what allows people to play it on different operating systems. 

Ross did not intend to make this for commercial uses (that's why it's free to download on his website), but Nintendo will probably try to take this down very soon, so play it while you can. Download the game here—to run it, make sure to install the Unity plug-in before.

UPDATE: You can no longer play Super Mario 64 HD via the internet. Attorneys for Nintendo have confirmed to the Daily Dot they issued a complaint to have the gaming site shutdown. 

“Nintendo respects the intellectual property rights of others, and in turn expects others to respect ours. Nintendo is passionate about protecting its creative works developed to entertain its fans and takes the necessary steps to remove unauthorized content distributed via the Internet.”

There's a sliver of good news; Nintendo hasn't stopped access to the game entirely. Programmer Roystan Ross has working download links available on his website so you can still play the game on your computer.

 

Latest in Pop Culture