Super Mario 64 Development Insights: Early Build Footage and Newly Uncovered Miyamoto Interview Surface Online

Super Mario 64 remains one of the most iconic titles in video game history, representing a groundbreaking leap in 3D platforming and a milestone for the Nintendo 64.

Released in June 1996, the game quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the Mario franchise and a benchmark for future platformers.

Over the years, devoted fans and preservationists have meticulously researched and chronicled its development, unearthing rare artifacts, developer interviews, and early prototypes.

The latest discovery further enriches the story of Super Mario 64's creation, shining new light on Nintendo's creative process. On March 10th, an early video interview with Super Mario 64 director Shigeru Miyamoto surfaced online, thanks to Kanpei Hagama, who shared the footage on YouTube and archive.org.

The interview, conducted by Kōji Watanabe—an executive associated with GTV, a Japanese game and video production company—coincides with the game's original release period.

Notably, the video displays gameplay from a preliminary version of Super Mario 64, providing fans and historians with a rare glimpse into the nascent stages of one of Nintendo's most revered titles. While the interview is conducted entirely in Japanese and was initially not intended for audiences outside Japan, it has gained renewed attention through a comprehensive analysis by gaming historian Charly Con Nostalgia.

Their summary highlights several significant insights from the footage and discussion.

In particular, Miyamoto is quoted as describing the Super Mario 64 stages as "garden dioramas," illustrating his vision for immersive and imaginative environments.

Miyamoto also reveals that both elementary school students and adults were involved in product testing before the game launched—a testament to Nintendo's commitment to accessibility and broad appeal. The early build footage presents a treasure trove of developmental details.

Observers will notice notable differences when compared to the retail version: Bowser's dialogue includes unique lines absent from the final release, the penguin character featured in Cool Cool Mountain is a different size, and various graphical assets—including textures and models—appear unfinished or altered.

These subtle but fascinating elements offer a deeper understanding of the iterative design process behind Super Mario 64 and the pivotal decisions that shaped the finished game. This newly uncovered interview and accompanying gameplay footage underscore the passion of the Super Mario 64 fan community and the ongoing importance of game preservation.

Over nearly three decades, Super Mario 64 has sold over 11 million units worldwide and remains a pillar of Nintendo's legacy, continuing to influence modern game design and development.

For those interested, the full interview can be accessed on YouTube and archive.org, serving as both a historical resource and a celebration of one of Nintendo's most inventive eras.

Nintendo Super Mario 64 Mario Shigeru Miyamoto Nintendo 64 Super Mario Miyamoto