How To: Play Super Mario 64 on Android (No Emulator Required)

If you're jonesing to play some Super Mario Run on your Android phone, you might not be able to get your fix for some time—at least, until Nintendo figures out the best way to keep piracy down and security high. But if you can't wait for the first official appearance of Mario on Android, we've got the next best thing...

Back in early-2015, developer Eric Roystan Ross revamped the first level of Super Mario 64, Bob-omb Battlefield, allowing any Nintendo or Mario fan to play the popular game from within an internet browser. That project was quickly nipped in the bud by Nintendo, but Eric's project lives on in an Android port by developer Jose Pablo Ramirez, which means you can play the first course of Super Mario 64 on your Android device without any emulators.

It's not quite Super Mario Run, but it can be enough to hold you over for now. If you would rather use an emulator to get your Mario fix—and play full classic Nintendo games—give RetroArch a try instead.

Step 1: System Requirements

Although you don't need a pesky emulator, there are some minimum requirements in order to play this game. For starters, you'll need a Bluetooth controller. If you own a PlayStation 4, take a look at our guide on how to connect your PS4 remote to your Android device. The dev originally planned for on-screen controls, but that hasn't materialized yet.

Step 2: Install the Game

In order to install this game, which isn't on the Google Play Store, you'll need to enable "Unknown sources" on your device. With that out of the way, download and install the following link.

• Download SuperMario64HD (.apk)

Step 3: Set Up Your Controls

Open the game and enter the settings, which can be done from the title screen or, if you're already in the game, by using the back button or soft key on your device. From within the settings, make sure to select "Gamepad" so that your controller functions properly.

Step 4: Have Fun with Mario!

Granted it may only be the first level, but it's a hard level. With your controls set up the way you want, enjoy conquering Big Bob-omb on the summit. For any updates to the game, make sure to keep up with the developer's thread on XDA or in his Google+ group.

• Follow Gadget Hacks on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube
• Follow Android Hacks on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest
• Follow WonderHowTo on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+