10 Video Game Entries That Drastically Changed The Formula

by Jess McDonell

1. Super Mario 64

Super Mario 64
Nintendo

We’d be extremely remiss to leave out not just one of the greatest series formula change-ups of all time, but one that launched a genre and changed the face of video games. Of course, we’re talking about Super Mario 64.

Pre-1996, Mario was a 2D kind of guy but with the arrival of the Nintendo 64 there were more things to explore and ways to explore them than ever before. The 3D playground was a platforming delight providing a game world ripe with opportunities for exploration, hidden secrets and non-linear engagement. Even though studios were just beginning to find their feet with 3D controls and cameras, Super Mario 64 was and continues to be a slam dunk that will always be one of the most iconic platformers of all time.

Of course, this would set the stage for plenty more fantastic 3D Mario games to come, kicking off a whole pile of beloved new favourites.

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Contributor
Contributor

Likes: Collecting maiamais, stanning Makoto, dual-weilding, using sniper rifles on PC, speccing into persuasion and lockpicking. Dislikes: Escort missions.