I've heard mentioned by some good runners and online that a Gameshark is great for practicing/learning this game, and would prove beneficial. Can anyone point me in the right direction as far as what model of GS, as well as tell me what exactly it can assist with? Thanks in advance.

I use a v3.2 Gameshark. Really any Gameshark will work, but v3+ supports most codes and is the overall better deal. You also can't use the savestate code or level reset with the IGT timer without an Expansion Pak, so I'd get one of those as well.

Whoa a Gameshark can let you use savestates and have a timer without being on a pc?! That's friggin insane lol. How does having an Exp. Pack enable it to do those things? Just requires more memory to do so or what?

yes

Oh okay, ty Xein.

Also, can you guys suggest the best codes to practice with? I don't currently know what all is possible utilizing a GS. I don't need the actual codes, I'm just asking for their names/functions, if that makes sense lol. Obviously Infinite Lives will help at first, but beyond that Idk what to look up.

think about an everdrive, too. I regret buying a gameshark. EDs got lots more possibilities.

Yea 7hornet someone on the Discord suggested an Everdrive also, but it's a bit out of my price range right now. On a budget unfortunately :/ lol

Also, will an American GS and Exp. Pack work with a Japanese SM64?

Useful codes can be found here: https://sites.google.com/site/sm64gameshark/codes

Yes you can use an American GS/Expansion pak for the Japanese game.

Thanks GothicLogic!

is anybody familiar with CREATING those codes? i found an "auto wallkick", but that's not really what i want...i want a code, not that "a-button" is PRESSED on every 2nd frame (1 frame off each) but being HOLD the whole time (dont know, if its pressed on EVERY frame then..?) thx for your replies :)