1. Big Boo’s Haunt
Finally we’ll end at perhaps the most inspired, iconic, unique, and creepiest level in Mario history: Big Boo’s Haunt.
If you played this game when you were around ten years old and Big Boo’s Haunt didn’t scare the crap at of you, you’re either totally fearless or a liar.
The ghost houses in Super Mario World were known for being puzzle over platforming-focused, and Nintendo perfectly translated that into 3D with Big Boo’s Haunt for Super Mario 64.
For starters, the music is terrifying and doubly so once you get to the haunted merry-go-round. The atmosphere in Big Boo’s Haunt is perfect, and the eerie silence, as compared to the liveliness of just about every other level, makes this whole stage play out like an E-rated Silent Hills game. Adding to this are the oddly dark and murdery messages that the Boos will leave you as you take them out.
If the Boo’s threats and laughs didn’t scare you away, then you’ll also have to contend with how easy it is get lost as you try to navigate your way through ghastly traps set for you by the Boos.
Oh and then there’s that damn piano that probably gave every child their first concussion by sending children 10 feet into the air and into their ceiling.
After all the scares and traps, getting to the roof and taking out Big Boo himself is just incredibly satisfying.
The whole experience, although traumatizing, is perhaps the most memorable part of an iconic game, and it’s why Big Boo’s Haunt is our favorite Super Mario 64 level.
Looking for more Mario content? Check out our review for Super Mario 3D All-Stars right here, and you should look into our Guide Wiki for tips and tricks for Super Mario 64, Sunshine, and Galaxy.
