Diorama64 is an unofficial fan project that transforms the classic Nintendo game Super Mario 64 into an augmented-reality (AR) diorama for the Apple Vision Pro. Instead of playing the game on a traditional flat screen, the project renders the game world as a small-scale model that appears to sit on the user's physical table. This allows players to walk around the level, lean in for a closer look at specific details, or view the entire environment from different angles while using a standard game controller to navigate Mario's actions.
The project renders the game world as a small-scale model that appears to sit on the user's physical table.
The technical foundation of Diorama64 relies on several community-driven projects. It is built on the sm64coopdx codebase and utilizes a custom Metal renderer to interface with the visionOS platform. To enhance the visual fidelity of the original 1996 title, the project incorporates high-definition (HD) textures from SM64 Reloaded and Render96, along with updated 3D models from Render96 and SwagSkeleton95. Because it is an unofficial port, the software does not contain any game data; users are required to provide their own Super Mario 64 (US) ROM to run the application.
While the project offers a unique way to interact with legacy software, it exists within a complex legal landscape regarding game preservation and emulation. The developer notes that the project is not affiliated with or endorsed by Nintendo. This distinction is relevant given Nintendo's history of taking legal action against unauthorized ports and emulators, such as the 2020 DMCA takedowns of the Super Mario 64 PC port and the 2024 lawsuit against the Yuzu emulator. Diorama64 currently operates in an alpha state, requiring a Mac with Apple silicon and specific Xcode versions to build and install the application on the headset.