Shining Atop the Pyramid

Learn how to grab the 'Shining Atop the Pyramid' Star in Super Mario 64. Discover strategies using the Wing Cap, Koopa Shell, or a careful climb.

Alright, so you're going for the second star in Shifting Sand Land, the one that's chilling on the outside of the pyramid. You've probably already gotten a feel for the pyramid's exterior, so make your way through the first couple of areas until you reach the oasis. Keep an eye out for Klepto, that pesky vulture who loves to steal Mario's hat! If he snags it, you'll have to chase him down to get it back, just like you would for a star. And hey, if you lose your hat, Mario takes double damage, so try to keep it on!

As you approach the two pillars, stick to the path around the quicksand whirlpool – don't let that whirlwind suck you in! You'll then go up a ramp onto the pyramid itself. From there, you'll want to head over to the yellow block. You'll see a higher ledge that circles the pyramid's exterior, but each level gets a bit narrower. It might be a good idea to try and bait the Fly Guy into swooping down. If you can get it to attack while you're not in its path, you can avoid its fiery attack and clear it out of the way before it bothers you again. Once you reach the very last, narrowest ledge, you can actually use Mario's crawl move to inch your way slowly but surely towards that star.

Now, if you're looking for an easier route, there are two much simpler ways to snag this star. Both involve using either the Wing Cap or a Koopa shell, and you can find both of these on top of the stone structure near the start of the level. If you opt for the Wing Cap, fly towards the base of the pyramid. Line yourself up with the entrance, then perform a Triple Jump. If you time it right, you should land directly near the star. Alternatively, if you grab a Koopa shell, you can surf across the sand and head straight for the pyramid. Ride the shell up the slanted part of the pyramid, jumping whenever you feel yourself slowing down, and you'll be able to reach the star with ease.