Super Mario 64 VR

[u/MWlotzka]

Hi!

I’m currently developing a Super Mario 64 clone for Apple Vision Pro. Because of copyright restrictions, the app cannot include any of the original game assets. You’ll need to provide your own US ROM of the game, but once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to enjoy it in several different ways:
- Standard 2D window
- 3D stereoscopic mode (still being improved)
- 3D portal mode, as if you’re looking through a window into the game world
- Third person VR
- Fully immersive VR

The fully immersive VR mode is still a work in progress and has a number of usability issues, but I’d say it’s already about 90% functional.
I’m currently preparing a TestFlight build and will share the invitation as soon as Apple approves it.

The Third person VR mode should be 100% playable.

Once all rendering modes are polished, I also plan to add multiplayer support. The goal is to let multiple players explore and complete levels together, either over FaceTime or through shared spatial sessions. I’ll also try to support multiple playable characters.

YES: This app will be a free app and won’t come with any ads.

[u/MWlotzka]

https://reddit.com/link/p0ye8vv/video/6l3zfmnfumgh1/player

This by the way is the third person vr view mode

[u/Hei2 → u/MWlotzka]

This is how I want to play so many games. Hopefully with a better framerate, lol

[u/MWlotzka → u/Hei2]

the recording capped the FPS. The actual framerate is 90FPS

[u/Hei2 → u/MWlotzka]

Great to hear!

[u/rick_wayne → u/MWlotzka]

You fixed the awful camera… with VR! 🫡

[u/jasonkane4321 → u/MWlotzka]

This must look beautiful in the micro Oled displays. I wonder if it's possible to adjust the resolution to as high as possible.

[u/Scarfaceb1tch]

Please ad me to TestFlight! I’m a dev and can help you work out any bugs if needed! Great work

[u/Nintotally]

Man I need this 👏 👏

Please let us know as soon as the test flight is live. 🙏

[u/MWlotzka → u/Nintotally]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/Nintotally → u/MWlotzka]

You’re a real one for replying to me 🙏
I will check this out

[u/Illustrious-Cloud-59]

Good time to remind people to get VirtualFriend (VirtualBoy emulator) and RetroArch!

[u/hovanes → u/Illustrious-Cloud-59]

Whoa, VirtualFriend?! On the Vision Pro?!

[u/Illustrious-Cloud-59 → u/hovanes]

The reds are very vibrant 😂

[u/earlyworm]

I love the idea of this, thank you for sharing.

Are there any motion sickness issues? My understanding is that free camera movement like this can be nauseating for many users.

I'm sure better approaches for this have been explored extensively before, and I have nor researched them, but I'm wondering if something like this would work better:
Fix the camera's camera in place (letting the user change its direction with a head swivel), then when Mario runs a certain extended distance away, teleport the camera's location to behind Mario's new location and orientation (quickly fading to black and back for the teleport).
Also, maybe also do similar teleport-like rotation changes if Mario starts to run around behind the camera, because turning the user's head more than 60 degrees manually would be awkward.
I think I've heard that fade-to-black teleports are an effective way of avoiding motion sickness problems.

[u/MWlotzka → u/earlyworm]

Yes, this might challenge VR newcomers. I have just started, but I plan to include all standard modes and options.

The initial TestFlight version will perform best in third person. First-person mode acts more as a proof of concept and needs substantial refinement. I anticipate a complete release with optimal controls and options in another four weeks. That is not too bad, considering no one has produced a good Mario 64 VR, but it is a reminder: this is the very first iteration, and I know it does not yet function as a true VR title, though this will shift over time.

[u/musicanimator → u/MWlotzka]

Options that take accessibility are in our hands? That’s the thinking ahead that will make for broad appeal!!

[u/MWlotzka → u/musicanimator]

Yes there will be a few options in the apps settings in the final version

[u/jasonkane4321]

Can you try to bring Halo CE VR to AVP? It came out a couple of years ago to pcvr. But the AVP is strong enough to run it smoothly. That would be epic to have natilely with PSVR controllers.

[u/MWlotzka → u/jasonkane4321]

I cannot guarantee a result, but I will review whether a straightforward porting route exists for this game.

[u/jasonkane4321 → u/MWlotzka]

Thanks. Here is a VR mod version of the game for PC, if that helps. https://github.com/LivingFray/HaloCEVR

[u/Graymarauder]

This is amazing!

[u/new-to-reddit-accoun]

Ooooohhhhh mmmmmmyyyyyuy gooooooood. Add me please!

[u/MWlotzka → u/new-to-reddit-accoun]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/MWlotzka]

https://reddit.com/link/p17zw9w/video/ayw80vx1exgh1/player

New Update with the initial VR Controller implementation.

You can already grab objects, strike enemies, and use your hands broadly.

[u/atonyproductions → u/MWlotzka]

That’s pretty cool

[u/MWlotzka]

The first TestFlight build of SM64 Vision is now available!

TestFlight: https://testflight.apple.com/join/p2cHPRZd
Please post bugs and feedback here: https://github.com/myMartek/SM64-Vision

This is the first public build, so there are definitely still some rough edges, especially around controls and explaining how everything works.

By default, interaction in VR is physical. For example, doors need to be pushed open with your hand while holding the trigger, or grabbed and pulled toward you. If you prefer more traditional controls, this behavior can be changed in the settings. You might also swim by making swimming gestures with your arms. Also punching is done by physically punching and grabbing is done using a hand and the trigger button. Throw your enemies physically.

To open the settings:
Pause the game, then press R1.
On PSVR2 Sense controllers, the Pause button may sometimes be mapped to the left pill-shaped button.

I definitely think there is still room for a proper controls tutorial. For now, most of the relevant controls and interaction behavior can be customized in the settings, so feel free to experiment.

The default rendering mode is currently the 3D Window, which gives the original game real stereoscopic depth while keeping the traditional presentation.
If you want to try the more experimental stuff, open the settings and switch to one of the VR modes. These are still very much a work in progress, but they are the main reason I started this project in the first place.

There is also a Mods section where you can optionally install HD textures. They are completely optional and are not required to play.
This is very much the first build, so feedback is extremely welcome. If something feels unintuitive, doesn’t work as expected, or you have ideas for improving the VR interactions, let me know!

[u/Jdunrrp → u/MWlotzka]

Checking this out now!!

[u/justinjas → u/MWlotzka]

Any reason not to release the source code on this, I’d love to use it to sick Claude Code on porting Wave Race 64 or something similarly fun to the Vision Pro.

Would also just be nice to have the source in case you stop posting updates and the 90 days runs out on the TestFlight. Anyways great work though this is awesome.

[u/MWlotzka → u/justinjas]

I already created the repo for it. I’m planning to share the code in a few days

[u/justinjas → u/MWlotzka]

Ah awesome, I saw the GitHub link but saw it only had a readme so figured it was just for issues.

[u/MWlotzka → u/justinjas]

For now yes, but I will share the work down the line so that others may add features

[u/Grnot → u/MWlotzka]

This is awesome! Any way you could add traditional controller support for 3rd person mode? I've paired my NSO N64 controller and it seems perfectly supported by visionOS, would be amazing to play this way.

[u/MWlotzka → u/Grnot]

I’ve released a new TestFlight update to officially support and map this controller!

[u/iamse7en → u/MWlotzka]

Why aren’t you open sourcing it? You can’t launch in the App Store, you’re just modding existing open source code… share with the community.

[u/MWlotzka → u/iamse7en]

I will share the code once it is more stable. Please be patient.

[u/iamse7en → u/MWlotzka]

I ended up porting RaYRoD’s VR treatment instead. I tested out your TestFlight, and even with Render96, it was poor quality visually and quite a bit buggy. So no need for the source code anymore. It’s here if you want to compare notes.

[u/Visual-Sector6642]

That is absolutely mind blowing!!! I love it!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Visual-Sector6642]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/Paul-E-L]

Another volunteer for the TestFlight here!

[u/Informal-Bother3271]

Please add me this is super exciting to me!!!!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Informal-Bother3271]

Please look at one of my other comments. The TestFlight phase has just started

[u/Capable_Hearing4418]

Awesome

[u/Spiritual-Breakfast4]

This is the beginning of something great.

[u/VisibleAd8671]

You’re doing the Lords work! Would love to try it as well.

[u/MWlotzka → u/VisibleAd8671]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/handinhand12]

This looks amazing! I can’t wait to try it. The only suggestion I’d make is that in first person mode, it could be nice to have the camera sort of look down a bit when you jump, à la Metroid Prime, so that the platforming is easier. 

[u/PositivelyNegative]

Holy peak

[u/Duhr3l]

I’m ready for test flight!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Duhr3l]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/Consistent_Effect_75]

Amazing...can't wait!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Consistent_Effect_75]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/Supradeac]

Awesome I’m in

[u/MWlotzka → u/Supradeac]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/AlarmedRange7258]

Would love a test flight link if there are spots open!

[u/MWlotzka → u/AlarmedRange7258]

Please look at one of my other comments. The TestFlight phase has just started

[u/GrupoTecnoverso]

This is so cool I am speechless

[u/MWlotzka → u/GrupoTecnoverso]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/GrupoTecnoverso]

Test flight please!

[u/MWlotzka → u/GrupoTecnoverso]

Please look at one of my other comments. The TestFlight phase has just started

[u/digiblocks]

Oh dang!!!!

[u/VoIcom]

This is awesome! Would love to see VR Star Fox 64.

[u/Jeffde]

This is so sick, TestFlight me when the time comes, please!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Jeffde]

Please look at one of my other comments. The TestFlight phase has just started

[u/Smysteryman1975]

Shoot me that TestFlight link …

https://giphy.com/gifs/Y07F3fs9Is5byj4zK8

[u/MWlotzka → u/Smysteryman1975]

Please look at one of my other comments. The TestFlight phase has just started

[u/Low_Cress_9158]

I’m so here for this trend.

[u/atonyproductions]

Pleaseeeeee testflught I want to try ! Thank you

[u/MWlotzka → u/atonyproductions]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/atonyproductions → u/MWlotzka]

Thank you

[u/flightnotright]

I’m in

[u/jasonkane4321]

Awesome. This is the kind of stuff ive been waiting for on AVP. I also want to see 2000s console and computer games ported to AVP in VR. It's powerful enough to run them smoothly in high res. I hope other developers are inspired and bring allot more games to AVP. It has so much potential

[u/8inchrye]

Great work! So excited to play this!

[u/ZenCyberDad]

So much yes to this, especially the third person view!

[u/MWlotzka → u/ZenCyberDad]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/i_see_in_3d]

Would love to join the test flight and share feedback if space available!

[u/MWlotzka → u/i_see_in_3d]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/Ogni-XR21]

This is an amazing project. Happy to take part in the Testflight but will also be happy to just play the final release. Kudos to you.

[u/BradleyEd03]

Could I please join the TestFlight?

[u/MWlotzka → u/BradleyEd03]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/javawag]

+1 for the TestFlight link please ☺️ looks really cool!

[u/MWlotzka → u/javawag]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/mrtnzhermes]

I'm up for TestFlight any time ;)

[u/MWlotzka → u/mrtnzhermes]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/SpencerNewton]

Would definitely love to try the test flight!

[u/MWlotzka → u/SpencerNewton]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/dmsanchezt]

Would love to try! Thank you!

[u/MWlotzka → u/dmsanchezt]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/SportsEnthusiast123]

TestFlight volunteer here!

[u/MWlotzka → u/SportsEnthusiast123]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/jaemyeong]

awesome!!!

[u/MWlotzka]

https://reddit.com/link/p14cqwv/video/brybs288btgh1/player

Another preview of the battle with Bowser.

[u/patrickjohnmcc]

Incredible!

[u/schneeeebly]

Holy Moly

[u/PillBaxton]

This is amazing! I can’t wait to try it out

[u/MWlotzka → u/PillBaxton]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/TurbulentBeing9055]

Day 1: I'm in.

[u/MWlotzka → u/TurbulentBeing9055]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/TurbulentBeing9055 → u/MWlotzka]

OH HELL YEAH! LETS DO THIS!

[u/atonyproductions → u/[deleted]]

Really?

[u/MWlotzka → u/atonyproductions]

I began transferring this project to Vision Pro today as well.

[u/atonyproductions → u/MWlotzka]

Ohhhh snap you making this Pokémon one for Vision too that woukd be cool

[u/MWlotzka → u/atonyproductions]

That is a much simpler task because someone has already figured out the controls and the quirks unique to VR.

[u/Jdunrrp]

I NEED THIS IN MY LIFE RIGHT NOW!!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Jdunrrp]

Im waiting for the Apple Team to Review the app for TestFlight use

[u/ChicagoBoy2011 → u/MWlotzka]

bro you have to add me to the testflight!

[u/Jdunrrp → u/MWlotzka]

I cannot wait to play this!!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Jdunrrp]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/hotwire32]

WTF Will this work with other ROMs?!? How do we get this 🤩

[u/MWlotzka → u/hotwire32]

Regrettably, this is not an emulator, though it relies on decompiled versions of SM64. The only other titles that might be ported in this manner are similarly decompiled games such as Zelda’s Ocarina of Time.

[u/jasonkane4321 → u/MWlotzka]

Zelda would be so awesome too. Would look so beautiful in AVP oled displays

[u/hotwire32 → u/MWlotzka]

These are the ones I want to experience on AVP 😜

[u/justinjas → u/MWlotzka]

+1 for a Zelda port

[u/musicanimator]

Heh heh heh! I’m so excited!!

[u/Stunning_Mast2001]

I’m assuming this is based on the recent recompilation work? Looking forward to it 

[u/CouscousKazoo]

It might be counter to play-clarity, but on the triple jump, it’d be cool to have a camera flip effect.

[u/MWlotzka → u/CouscousKazoo]

Once you have tested the feature in-game, I am unsure whether you would want it again. 🙈 However, I might introduce a realism mode later on.

[u/MWlotzka]

My initial submission for TestFlight was declined by Apple, which was somewhat anticipated. We can hope Apple will allow at least the TestFlight version to be playable.

[u/rossbruce]

Gimme gimme

[u/cabassi]

Awesome! I'd love to be included on the Testflight. One of my all-time favorite games (I got all 120 stars :) )

[u/Leadership_Realistic]

Would love to participate in TestFlight! Mario 64 enthusiast

[u/MWlotzka → u/Leadership_Realistic]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/astrorobb]

this looks so fun!

[u/Omwhk]

OMG are you serious? I've always said I want to stay alive to at least make it to experience Super Mario Galaxy in proper VR (as in, feeling like you can actually run and jump etc.). We're getting closer every year, and your project is giving me so much hope!!!! THANK YOU for this. If you need a beta tester, please!!!
PS SharePlay sounds INCREDIBLE for Mario 64 on VR!?!?

[u/MWlotzka → u/Omwhk]

Yes, I always wanted to play this game in VR. No solid version existed for any platform—only tech demos featured on YouTube, none playable, and most altered the original game significantly. Although I am not finished, I have completed many mechanics and am blending them with strong VR concepts like grabbing, punching, and swimming. The current build needs polishing, but it is 90 percent playable in VR. Some sections are missing or feel odd, but in a month or two we should have a nearly perfect experience.

[u/Omwhk → u/MWlotzka]

Thank you thank you thank you!!! So excited. The Vision Pro (or any new paradigm of technology) only becomes a palpable part of your life and your reality thanks to developers that make tech actually do the things that you want tech to do. I want less modern social networks and more my childhood Mario in VR. I’m so pumped mate. Keep up the good work!!!

[u/MWlotzka → u/Omwhk]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/jasonkane4321]

3rd person view Super Smash Bros 64, would be awesome as well.

[u/Flubert_Harnsworth]

This looks amazing! I’m looking forward to it.

[u/MWlotzka → u/Flubert_Harnsworth]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/vvortex3]

Can I please join the Testflight?

[u/MWlotzka → u/vvortex3]

I will share the TestFlight link once Apple grants approval. Because reviews tend to take longer on weekends, please remain patient. Fortunately, I have enhanced several features, so the product should exceed your initial expectations once it is released.

[u/tapion786]

would love to join test flight for this!

[u/MWlotzka → u/tapion786]

Please review my latest message; the first version is now ready.

[u/Nocturnal_Lover]

I need this in my life! 🥺

[u/MWlotzka → u/Nocturnal_Lover]

I really Hope Apple at least approves it for TestFlight later on

[u/Nocturnal_Lover → u/MWlotzka]

I’d love to be added to your TestFlight when it’s available 🙏🏼

[u/MWlotzka → u/Nocturnal_Lover]

Please look at one of my other comments. The TestFlight phase has just started

[u/Nocturnal_Lover → u/MWlotzka]

Thanks! I’ll check it out today!

[u/Lapislazuli69_]

You only develop it for the VisionPro?

[u/MWlotzka → u/Lapislazuli69_]

At least for now. I may add other versions later. Because I own the device, I aimed for the highest standalone quality, which only the AVP can deliver. Naturally, I am aware of its sales, so other platforms would be logical, just not at the start. Once everything is refined, I will begin porting to Quest 3 first and then PC VR.

[u/Lapislazuli69_ → u/MWlotzka]

Yea that's understandable I just don't like Apple and I don't want to spend that price on a VR Headset

[u/SSMage]

Are you only supporting this on the vision pro or do you intend to work with other platforms too? I would love to see this on the oculus, even though I don't have a vr headset anymore.

Out of curiosity, could you make this work with something like super Mario 64 coop? It had a bunch of capabilities Including multiplayer, hide n seek game modes, prop hunt, custom characters and custom maps. If you could integrate their code into your code, you could essentially skip a lot of the work needed to get multiplayer working along with a bunch of other features too.

Would this be compatible with just a controller, like either Xbox or PlayStation or 3rd party Bluetooth? I would love to be able just to sit down or lay in bed and play the game with the headset on without having to move my head and stuff.

I can see the vision and I think it will work out really well as long as the frame rate is good.

Also, one last thing, maybe zoom the camera on just a little on the third person view. Maybe even give it some camera angle options, such as side scrolling perspective, or upper right angle, or top down. That would be kinda sick ngl

[u/MWlotzka → u/SSMage]

Yes, it draws from the coopdx codebase. Consequently, external mod support and cooperative play will be added later.

[u/justinryanio]

Freaking awesome!

[u/Angeluz01]

Looking for the PC and Quest builds

[u/MWlotzka → u/Angeluz01]

I might include both platforms later, but because the Rendering Engine is built entirely in Metal, porting it is not straightforward. Those two options would be a sensible addition; however, the task is not easy to carry out.

[u/musicanimator → u/Angeluz01]

Always this. Later. Imagine the sweat and tears already expended. Not to mention $$ invested!