Top 5 Scary Moments in Super Mario 64
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With recent speculation that Super Mario 64 might be remastered for Nintendo Switch, it's a perfect time to look back at some of the scariest encounters in the game. Mario games always appear quite kiddy and friendly to play, but there are many moments that aren't so lighthearted that could increase your heart rate.
Before we start, an honourable mention. A giant eyeball called "Mr. I" can feel a bit unsettling at first but he isn't too difficult to deal with. It's almost like Bowser's Halloween prank.
Just run around him 3 times and he'll be defeated. But don't stand around and stare back or else he'll shoot out bubbles towards you.
5. Chain Chomp in Bob-omb Battlefield
There is only one Chain Chomp in Super Mario 64, in the first course, Bob-omb Battlefield. He's in a giant form that charges at Mario as he approaches with a loud barking sound, like an angry dog. This is probably something that freaked out many 90s kids that played this game.
Thankfully he's not too hard to avoid or defeat once you get over the fear. Just stomp the wooden pole, which frees him he will open up the cage with a Power Star. For something you encounter in the early part in the game, maybe it's a sign from the developers that it isn't going to be an easy journey to get to rescue Princess Peach and get that cake she's baking for Mario.
4. Bubba in Tiny-Huge Island
Going for a casual swim in Tiny-Huge Island is actually a risk because of this fish. Bubble resembles a Cheep Cheep and he looks quite chill with sunglasses. But once he opens his mouth and eats you... GG, you're done.
3. Unagi the Eel in Jolly Roger Bay
A giant eel called Unagi is patrolling this underwater stage. He is quite intimidating because you have to lure him out for two stars, and he has a huge mouth and sharp teeth, simply running into the eel will cost you 4 hit points, and yes, there's a star on his tail to collect. There's just a bit of a creepy factor in Jolly Roger Bay, and Unagi is definitely part of the reason why.
At least he has a fitting name, Unagi is Japanese for eel, and grilled eel is delicious. Being eaten by one however, is not.
2. Big Piranha Plants in Tiny-Huge Island
One of the Power Stars in Tiny-Huge Island requires Mario to defeat the 5 Big Piranha Plants! These ones aren't the calm sleeping ones in Whomp's Fortress that you can carefully walk by. In this grassy area, Piranha Plants just magically appear from the ground as you approach their territory, making it quite freaky to encounter!
Oh, and not only are they big and intimidating, they will breathe fire at you too. Each Piranha Plant will die after a single kick or punch, and once you defeat all 5, you get the prize.
1. Mad Piano in Big Boo's Haunt
Once Mario approaches what seemingly looks like an ordinary grand piano, the cover will pop open exposing huge sharp teeth and start chomping and chasing you around to attack. It's downright unnerving and might give you some chills. This frightening enemy isn't even protecting a Power Star, all that is in this room is 1 of the 8 red coins. There is no way to defeat the piano, it's indestructible. So much for music being a calm, relaxing experience!
Although the piano is in a haunted house stage, the ultimate shock factor of the Mad Piano is what makes it the scariest moment you can encounter in Super Mario 64.
Which parts of Super Mario 64 did you fear the most? Share your thoughts with us!
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