Render96
Render96 is a visual overhaul mod for the Super Mario 64 PC port that reimagines the classic game with high-quality character models and textures. The project faithfully recreates what Super Mario 64 might look like if it were rendered with the quality of its official artwork and promotional renders from 1996. Mario, enemies, and environments receive dramatically improved models while preserving the original game's beloved gameplay and level design.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Developer | Render96 Team |
| Genre | 3D Platformer (Mod) |
| Platform | PC (via SM64 PC Port) |
| Release | 2021 (ongoing updates) |
| Base | Super Mario 64 PC Port |
| Status | Active Development |
What Makes Render96 Special?
The original Super Mario 64 was limited by the Nintendo 64's hardware, meaning character models had to be simple and low-polygon. Render96 replaces these models with versions that match the detailed promotional art Nintendo used to market the game in 1996. The result is a version of SM64 that looks how many players remember it looking — matching the idealized image in their memory rather than the actual blocky N64 visuals. Beyond character models, the mod includes improved environmental textures, enhanced lighting effects, and quality-of-life improvements. It runs on the SM64 PC port, which means it benefits from modern resolution support, widescreen, and smooth framerates while maintaining the original gameplay feel.Gameplay and Features
Render96 enhances the SM64 experience while preserving its core:- HD Character Models: Mario, NPCs, and enemies receive high-quality 3D models matching their 1996 promotional artwork.
- Improved Textures: Environmental textures are upgraded throughout all levels for a cleaner, more detailed look.
- Widescreen Support: Play in modern widescreen resolutions, eliminating the original 4:3 letterboxing.
- Smooth Performance: Benefits from the PC port's uncapped framerate and modern rendering pipeline.
- Faithful Gameplay: All original levels, stars, and gameplay mechanics are preserved exactly as Nintendo designed them.
- Modular Design: Install only the components you want — character models, textures, or both.
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