Super Mario 64 ROM Hack 'Return to Yoshi's Island' Releases New Demo for N64 and Project64
Entry information
Published on: January 07, 2025
Description
A highly anticipated milestone in fan-driven game development has been reached with the release of a new demo for 'Return to Yoshi's Island,' an expansive ROM hack based on the beloved Nintendo 64 classic, Super Mario 64.
This innovative project brings fans fresh content and reimagined gameplay, underscoring the enduring popularity and influence of Nintendo's revolutionary platformer.
Spearheaded by veteran modders Kaze Emanuar and Biobak, with musical contributions from Badub, 'Return to Yoshi's Island' stands out as one of the most ambitious fan creations in the Super Mario 64 community.
The project is designed to offer Super Mario 64 players a completely new adventure, featuring never-before-seen levels, hidden secrets, unique characters, and an updated character model for Mario himself.
The fan game has steadily built excitement since its initial demo rollout several years ago.
On January 4th, 2025, Kaze Emanuar took to social media to officially announce the release of a brand new demo, inviting enthusiasts to experience the latest developments in the project.
Unlike the earlier public demo, which included a diverse array of levels, this new version is intentionally restricted to the first stage.
According to the official statement, the current release is focused on "gathering feedback regarding Mario's movement and camera functionality" through a player survey, signaling the team's dedication to polish and user experience.
Players eager to explore this updated demo can download it directly from Romhacking.com.
The demo is compatible with original N64 hardware—when using a device such as the Summercart—as well as with the widely used Project64 emulator.
While alternative play methods exist, some require additional steps, which are clearly outlined on the project's main page for accessible community guidance.
Gameplay footage highlighting the latest updates has already begun to circulate online, with notable YouTubers such as DGR providing first-look impressions and showcasing the refined controls and visual improvements.
The release of this new demo represents a major achievement for Return to Yoshi's Island and further cements the influence of Super Mario 64 within the ROM hacking and modding scene.
By maintaining active engagement with the community through feedback-driven updates, developers Kaze Emanuar, Biobak, and Badub continue to push creative boundaries on both original N64 hardware and modern emulators.
For those seeking a refreshed Mario platforming experience, the Return to Yoshi's Island demo provides a promising taste of what may become one of the most notable Super Mario 64 ROM hacks released to date.
