All the three games have improved higher resolution image qualities up to 1920 x 1080 (docked), except for Super Mario 64 (see below).[1]
The games have been optimized for an improved performance on the Nintendo Switch.
There is a mode where players can listen to entire soundtracks of all the three games.
Text and dialogues have been changed and altered from the original versions to match the Switch controls and remove original console-exclusive content.
Each game has their unique features, mechanics, controls, compatibility, functions, and picture displays.
The game maintains the original 4:3 aspect ratio, but with improved image quality.
In both docked and handheld modes, the game has a maximum resolution of 960 x 720.[1]
Much of the elements, including the background elements such as trees, coins, the HUD, Mario's facial details, and overalls buttons, maintain faithful while now presented much more clearly than pixelated. In addition, Mario's signature "M" emblem on his cap has been modified to clearly resemble its present look as in other games.[2][3]
The title screen has the "Press +" instead of the "Press Start" text.
The game is based on the Japan-only Shindou version which include Mario's infamous "So long, King Bowser!" (frequently misinterpreted as "So long, gay Bowser!") being replaced with "Bye-bye!", his two higher-pitched voice clips, and the rumble support (for this case, HD rumble).
In the "Select File" screen, the "Stereo" option button has been removed.
For the first time ever, Sunshine is playable in full 16:9 aspect ratio display.
The cutscenes have adjusted hue, and have been zoomed and cropped to match the 16:9 aspect ratio.[4]
On its initial release, the game had no support for the Nintendo GameCube controller, despite that Sunshine has originated from the console and the fact that the Switch has an adapter to provide compatibility. As of the 1.1.0 update, the support for the GameCube controller was finally included.
The "Press Start" command has been moved to the bottom center of the screen as in present Mario games, and is now replaced with "Press A".
When giving control instructions on how to use the F.L.U.D.D. in the cutscene, the "R" line has been removed from his lines due to it being replaced with the "ZR" controls on the Switch. He would simply say "the button" instead. However, for some reason, the "X Button" line has remained.
Players are required to use the two detached Joy-Cons, even if the game is played on the Nintendo Switch Lite.
The game runs in 60 fps in 1080p.
Since there are features from the original Wii version that the Nintendo Switch lacks, such features like the Wii Message Board messages, Wii Remote speaker, and Mii icon selections have been cut.
Handling the star cursor is now replaced by the use of motion rather than requiring a sensor, namely the Wii Sensor Bar. The player can press "R" to reset the cursor if lost in sight.
If played in handheld mode, the cursor can also be interacted through touchscreen controls, which is frequently implemented.[5] These control instructions are also added when interacting with NPC's and some signs.
Co-op multiplayer is also available and would require a secondary Joy-Con. This means a player can share a Joy-Con for the second player to use for assistance, similar to the co-op controls of Super Mario Odyssey. However, two Joy-Cons are still required to play in single-player.
The player can press a button ("Y") to spin, in addition to just shaking the control.[6]
Reception
Upon its official reveal on the Super Mario Bros. 35th Anniversary Direct presentation, while it was received mostly favorable response, it was met with criticism that's focused on its limited release, pricing, and the exclusion of Super Mario Galaxy 2 (a sequel to the original game included that has been rumored to appear alongside).[7][8]
A Mario-centered Wii game has been re-released on the Switch.
Ironically, while excluded from the compilation, the higher-pitched, shortened version of 'You got a Star' theme from Super Mario Galaxy 2 is heard before the title screen. This led to speculations and theories on whether Galaxy 2 will be included in a later update or re-released as a stand-alone title.
Despite the Switch's HD Rumble potential capability, especially for a Mario game, all games are presented with more simple rumble as the original games.
It is confirmed to be an emulation.
Super Mario 64
Since it is based on the Shindou version, this marks the first time such a version received a worldwide localized release. Previous re-releases since the Virtual Console releases before 3D All-Stars consist of the 1996 original version.
It is oddly the only game to retain the 4:3 aspect ratio, and to be released in the 1990's.
Super Mario Sunshine
This is the very first time Sunshine has been officially modified into the 16:9 aspect ratio display by Nintendo.
As detailed above, the game uses motion rather than requiring a sensor device to control the on-screen cursor. This was also the case for World of Goo, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, and Nordlicht.
Much of the original game's unused data and files have been removed and has a recompiled code.[9]
