What happens when you beat Bowser in Mario 64?

What Happens When You Beat Bowser in Mario 64?

Beating Bowser in Super Mario 64 (SM64) is a thrilling moment, marking the climax of the game. Once you defeat the primary antagonist, you’d expect some kind of reward or insight into what comes next. But, unfortunately, SM64 doesn’t give you much explicit information. It simply… ends. Don’t worry, we’re here to decipher the aftermath and reveal what happens when you defeat Bowser.

The "Bowser’s Special Message"

As part of SM64’s "bonus content" area, Bowser himself provides a cryptic message to you (and only you, unless you invite friends over – but that’s a story for another time) upon defeating him three times. This enigmatic monologue is only possible to view when you’ve 100 stars under your belt, a hefty number even for an exemplary plumber. Think of it as your final act of recognition: the stars signify your mastery over Peach’s 120 star threshold, unlocking secrets and shortcuts scattered throughout the kingdom.

A Hint of Mario’s Post-Ding-Ville Plans?

With Bowser dealt with and the stars earned, Bowser’s Message hints at another challenge beyond the Princess Peach. This brief scene offers subtle clues to an after-credits adventure. Yes, a new mission appears to have materialized, allowing you to carry on exploring Mario 64 world. These subtle undertones suggest Mario must return the favor by securing peace elsewhere in the kingdom, perhaps for further missions? The truth about what this means for Bowser or Mario remains tantalizingly vague, though your in-game actions should answer your burning questions.

Additional Stars Beyond the Primary Course?

Not only can the Post-Bowser world grant rewards and exploration, but also an updated version of SM64 (super-early beta testers are exceptions; ask them, don’t be me) presents optional hidden content. Beyond Mario 64, you might collect up to 500 stars via "Darker Side Moons," and even find them all the 120 primary Star Challenges you’ve overcome and earned from the first iteration.

These additional Moons have secrets hidden away by developers Shigeru Miyamoto, Yoshi, and the development teams to find. Be thorough! Those 250-Dark-side Moons provide further Star-bonuses beyond 1-2:2 Peach’s Secret – but those are reserved exclusive experiences, unique story-branches (your exploration unfolds in a fresh reality!), exclusive areas like Warp Stars and 99 Star Pieces, etc

Here are some crucial additional aspects you may unlock when the game finishes. What could come next in future versions

You can always wonder:

**Bowser in a new mission as hero?
Or Princess Peach or other character gaining hero-hood?

Let the suspense build until Bowser Returns, or so he’ll!