What does 120 stars get you in Mario 64?

What Does 120 Stars Get You in Mario 64?

Super Mario 64, released in 1996, revolutionized the 3D platformer genre with its innovative gameplay mechanics, charming characters, and epic storyline. Among the game’s numerous stars, which serve as a form of collectibles, is a milestone number that has captivated Mario enthusiasts for generations. That number is 120.

So, what exactly do you get when you collect all 120 stars in Super Mario 64?

Unleashing the Secret Areas

The most significant benefit of collecting 120 stars is unlocking new secret areas. With all stars collected, Mario gains access to a range of hidden worlds and stages that contain exclusive Power Stars, Stars, and secrets. These areas were initially inaccessible to players who did not fulfill the required number of Power Stars. Now, Mario can explore these new levels, relive nostalgic experiences, or uncover new and exciting surprises.

Breaking Down Barriers

Some levels require a minimum of 100 stars to reach certain points, which was previously locked due to an insufficient star count. The cannon outside Peach’s Castle is another notable example, as you need at least 70 stars to gain access. However, once you achieve the magical 120 star count, this barrier no longer applies. Mario becomes a powerful explorator, equipped to push through walls, smash brick blocks, and defy obstacles, ensuring the most demanding challenges become less intimidating.

Special Stars and Unlockables

A set of 120-Star-specific Stars await players who’ve collected the necessary Power Stars. These hidden stars grant exclusive unlocks, providing players with:
• Star Maps, offering improved navigation through various levels.
• Music tracks not found anywhere else in the game.

Insight into Super Mario 64’s Architecture

Beyond unlocking secret areas and rewards, collecting all 120 stars also unlocks the ability to explore parts of Peach’s Castle, a central location that seems unreachable until that point. With a higher power star count, you gain access to rooms containing ancient artifacts and rare Power Stars. Players may uncover valuable insights into the game’s design and narrative through exploring these restricted areas.

What to Expect After Achieving the Milestone

• Star Collection Plateaus: Upon collecting the final 120 stars, Mario achieves perfection, no longer earning stars or finding additional hidden rooms. His mission to recover the Stars of Power complete, the star counter caps off, signifying total mastery.
• Sense of Completion: After mastering every secret and exploring each corner of the game’s world, the satisfaction and accomplishment from reaching the peak star count create an extraordinary feeling. A testament to Mario’s prowess, no one will argue the pride of a perfectly collected set of 120 stars!
• No Regret, Just Victory: Upon completion, Mario 64 becomes even more rewatchable and nostalgic, serving as a constant reminder of your accomplishments and mastery. There is no shame or regret for leaving anything behind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the required Power Stars for each Secret Area? Find out using our Star Count Chart! (Note: We omitted the star counts for individual secret areas due to limitations, as you need precise numbers.)

• Can you get additional Stars or Stars after completing all 120? No, star collection becomes redundant after attaining perfection.

• Does the cannon still have exclusive benefits, like in older Mario 64 games, when only specific power star combinations grant access? Yes, with the milestone 120 star count.

In conclusion, collecting the coveted 120 stars in Mario 64 allows you to:

• Unlock hidden secret areas and exclusive stars.
• Smash through brick blocks, access new pathways, and defeat obstacles, enhancing gameplay freedom.
• Enjoy hidden star-related unlockables like new music and maps.
• Reach ultimate mastery, completeing your Star Power journey.
• Bask in the profound satisfaction of completion and share in the accomplishments with other gamers.

Are you prepared to face this ultimate test and earn bragging rights as a seasoned Mario expert? Then proceed with dedication, exploration, and persistence – your mastery of Mario 64 is within grasp!