Watch the Run

Not Done Yet

Apparently I’ve not had enough of Super Mario 64.

I could have easily gone back and started another randomizer run, but I knew I wanted something different. After getting modded versions of Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 running on my Steam Deck, I had a new direction.

The starting point was obvious: Super Mario Galaxy 63.

A Different Kind of Familiar

Before going further, it’s worth noting that Super Mario Galaxy 63 is a reimagining of Super Mario 63:

Super Mario 63 Wiki

I had never played it. I didn’t even know it existed until I started looking into this hack. If I’m going to work through it properly, it makes sense to understand what inspired it.

Like its inspiration, this run replaces stars with shine sprites. There are also star coins to collect, which unlock bonus levels later on.

That’s enough context. Time to begin.

First Steps

I start in what looks like the Mushroom Kingdom, and I’m given control of Mario immediately.

This is useful. It gives me time to test the control setup properly. This run is not just about the hack itself, it’s also a test of how well this setup holds up before moving into other Galaxy mods.

Along the way, I run into some familiar faces from Galaxy 1 and 2. One of them brings back memories I didn’t ask for: the robot that used to task me with destroying boxes under a time limit. Those stars still linger somewhere in the back of my mind.

The area works well as a tutorial. I get to practice wall kicks, flips, and eventually spinning once I collect the Luma. I’ve mapped spin to a button this time, which already feels like the right decision on Steam Deck.

Back to the Castle

It doesn’t take long for Bowser to show up, kidnap Peach, and set things in motion. Some things don’t change.

Entering the castle feels immediately familiar. That makes sense. I’ve spent more hours here than I can count.

There are locked doors, but one opens as I approach. Inside is a painting.

So yes, we’re doing this again.

Bob-Omb Battlefield, Again

The first world: Bob-Omb Battlefield Galaxy.

There are four shine sprites and eight star coins here, shown clearly on the selection screen. I decide to go left to right, starting with:

Top of the Summit

Inside, a Pink Bob-Omb lets me know that King Bob-Omb is no longer in charge. He’s been replaced by Dino Piranha.

That feels like a fair trade.

I collect my first star coin early, then two more on the way up. Three collected before reaching the summit is a good start.

Dino Piranha is exactly as I remember. No major changes, no surprises. Three hits later, and the first shine sprite is mine.

First Impressions

This feels like a solid introduction to the hack.

It’s familiar enough to settle into quickly, but different enough that I can’t rely entirely on memory. That balance is exactly what I was looking for.

I’m curious to see how other levels are reimagined in this format. There’s still more to uncover within the castle, and if this first step is anything to go by, this might turn into something worth sticking with.

Continue the Journey

Super Mario Galaxy 63 Hub

— All entries in this run.

Mario ROM Hacks Hub

— All Mario ROM hack content.

Dolphin Setup Guide

— How this run is even possible.

Entry 2 → Coming Soon