Top 10 Best Nintendo 64 Games of All Time
best n64 games of all time

The Nintendo 64 was a groundbreaking console that introduced many beloved games. From its launch in 1996 to its discontinuation in 2002, the N64 offered a wide variety of titles that showcased the console’s unique capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the N64, there are plenty of classic games to experience. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best N64 games of all time.

One of the most iconic N64 games is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. This action-adventure game was a groundbreaking release for the console, featuring a vast open world, innovative gameplay, and a captivating story. Players take on the role of Link, a young hero who must travel through time to save the kingdom of Hyrule from the evil Ganondorf. Ocarina of Time is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games ever made, and it remains a must-play for any N64 fan.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

Released in 2000, The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask was the second N64 entry in the revered Zelda franchise, serving as a direct sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. This beloved action-adventure game transported players to the enigmatic land of Termina, a parallel universe to Hyrule, where they embarked on an epic quest to prevent the impending destruction of the world at the hands of the mischievous Skull Kid and the malevolent moon.

Majora’s Mask introduced a unique and unsettling atmosphere that set it apart from its predecessors. The game’s central theme revolves around the relentless passage of time and the inevitability of fate, as the moon slowly descends towards Termina over the course of three days. This time-bending mechanic added a sense of urgency and consequence to gameplay, forcing players to carefully manage their actions and prioritize their objectives.

In addition to its profound storyline and immersive world, Majora’s Mask is renowned for its innovative gameplay mechanics. The game introduced a transformative mask system that allowed Link to assume the forms of different creatures, each with its own unique abilities. These masks granted Link access to new areas, solved puzzles, and provided access to hidden secrets, adding depth and variety to gameplay.

Gameplay Features:

Feature
Time-bending mechanic
Transformative mask system
Immersive world with intricate side quests
Challenging boss battles
Epic soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere

GoldenEye 007

GoldenEye 007 is a first-person shooter video game developed by Rare and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64. The game was released in 1997 and is based on the 1995 James Bond film of the same name. GoldenEye 007 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 8 million copies worldwide. The game is considered one of the best first-person shooters of all time and is often credited with popularizing the genre on consoles.

Gameplay

GoldenEye 007 is a first-person shooter in which the player controls James Bond through a variety of missions. The game features a wide range of weapons, vehicles, and gadgets that can be used to complete objectives. GoldenEye 007 also features a multiplayer mode for up to four players, which was one of the first console games to offer online multiplayer.

Features

GoldenEye 007 is known for its innovative gameplay and features. The game was one of the first to introduce a stealth mode, which allows the player to avoid enemies and complete objectives without being detected. GoldenEye 007 also features a variety of different difficulty levels, which makes it accessible to players of all skill levels.

Feature	Description
Stealth mode	Allows the player to avoid enemies and complete objectives without being detected
Different difficulty levels	Makes the game accessible to players of all skill levels
Multiplayer mode	Allows up to four players to compete against each other

Banjo-Kazooie

Banjo-Kazooie is a 3D platformer game developed by Rare and released for the Nintendo 64 in 1998. The game follows the adventures of Banjo, a brown bear, and Kazooie, a red-crested Breegull, as they set out to save Banjo’s sister Tooty from the evil witch Gruntilda. Banjo-Kazooie is a highly acclaimed game, and is often considered to be one of the best games of all time.

Gameplay

Banjo-Kazooie is a 3D platformer game in which the player controls Banjo and Kazooie as they explore a variety of worlds. The game’s worlds are large and open, and feature a variety of challenges and obstacles to overcome. Banjo and Kazooie can use a variety of moves to navigate the world, including running, jumping, climbing, and swimming. They can also use a variety of weapons to attack enemies, including eggs, feathers, and nuts.

Banjo-Kazooie features a unique gameplay mechanic called “Jiggies.” Jiggies are golden puzzle pieces that are hidden throughout the game’s worlds. Collecting Jiggies is necessary to progress through the game, as they are used to unlock new worlds and abilities. Jiggies can be found by completing challenges, solving puzzles, and defeating enemies.

Jiggies Collection:

World	Number of Jiggies
Spiral Mountain	10
Mumbo’s Mountain	10
Treasure Trove Cove	10
Clanker’s Cavern	10
Freezeezy Peak	10
Gobi’s Valley	10
Rusty Bucket Bay	10
Hailfire Peaks	10
Jolly Roger’s Lagoon	10
Mad Monster Mansion	10
Click Clock Wood	10
Grunty’s Furnace Fun	5

Best N64 Games of All Time

Super Mario 64

Super Mario 64 is a platform game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64 video game console. It was released in 1996 and is the first 3D game in the Super Mario series. The game follows Mario as he explores Princess Peach’s castle and the surrounding worlds to rescue her from Bowser.

Super Mario 64 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 11 million copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, graphics, and sound design. The game is considered one of the greatest video games of all time and has been ranked first on several lists of the best Nintendo 64 games.

Innovative Gameplay

Super Mario 64 introduced several innovative gameplay features that have since become staples of the 3D platforming genre.

Feature	Description
Analog control	Allows for precise movement and control of Mario’s speed and direction.
3D camera	Gives players a wider perspective of the game world and allows them to explore in all directions.
Open-world design	Allows players to freely explore the game world and choose their own path to complete the game.

These features combined to create a truly revolutionary and immersive gaming experience that set a new standard for 3D platformers.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time. Released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, it revolutionized the adventure game genre with its groundbreaking graphics, epic storyline, and innovative gameplay.

An Epic Adventure

Ocarina of Time transports players to the mystical land of Hyrule, where they embark on an epic quest to save Princess Zelda from the evil Ganondorf. As Link, a young boy destined to become a hero, players explore a vast and immersive world filled with treacherous dungeons, sprawling landscapes, and unforgettable characters.

Interactive World and Innovative Gameplay

Ocarina of Time introduced a revolutionary approach to gameplay that allowed players to interact with the world in unprecedented ways. Link could ride horses, play musical instruments, and use a variety of items to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles.

Artful Graphics and Soundtrack

The game’s visuals and soundtrack are considered legendary. The graphics pushed the limits of the Nintendo 64, creating a visually stunning and immersive world. The music, composed by Koji Kondo, is a masterpiece that perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere and emotional impact.

Release Date	November 21, 1998
Developer	Nintendo EAD
Publisher	Nintendo
Platform	Nintendo 64

Time Travel and Alternate Paths

Ocarina of Time introduced a time-traveling mechanic that allowed players to explore both the past and future versions of Hyrule. This innovation added depth and complexity to the gameplay, as players could manipulate time to change the course of events and solve puzzles.

Pokémon Snap

Pokémon Snap is a unique and innovative game that combines the world of Pokémon with the excitement of photography. Released in 1999 for the Nintendo 64, Pokémon Snap invites players to embark on an unforgettable journey through various Pokémon habitats, capturing stunning images of these enigmatic creatures in their natural environments.

Exploring Diverse Ecosystems

The game features six distinct islands, each boasting its own unique ecosystem and Pokémon species. Players traverse lush forests, icy caves, and volcanic landscapes, encountering over 60 different Pokémon throughout their adventure. The diverse environments provide a wide range of opportunities for capturing memorable photographs.

Capturing Perfect Shots

Pokémon Snap gameplay revolves around taking photographs of Pokémon using a special camera called the PokéScope. Players must carefully aim and time their shots to capture the perfect moment. Different Pokémon exhibit unique behaviors and reactions to the camera, making each photograph an exciting and rewarding experience.

Unlocking Hidden Surprises

Pokémon Snap encourages exploration and discovery. Hidden paths and secret areas can be unlocked by taking specific photographs. These hidden areas often lead to encounters with rare Pokémon or special events, adding depth and replayability to the game.

Evaluating Your Shots

Once a photograph is taken, it is evaluated based on three criteria: clarity, pose, and composition. Professor Oak, the resident Pokémon expert, provides feedback on each photograph and assigns a score. Players strive to capture the best possible shots to earn high scores and unlock bonus content.

Sharing Your Masterpieces

Pokémon Snap offers a variety of ways to share your captured photographs. Players can connect with other players via the Nintendo 64’s Transfer Pak accessory to trade and display their best shots. Additionally, the game supports printing photographs using a compatible printer, allowing players to create physical keepsakes of their Pokémon encounters.

Table: Pokémon Snap Environments

Island	Environment
Beach	Sandy shores, tropical vegetation
Forest	Lush foliage, towering trees
Cave	Icy caverns, underground waterfalls
Volcano	Active volcano, lava flows
River	Flowing river, waterfalls, lush vegetation
Ruins	Ancient ruins, hidden chambers

Star Fox 64

Star Fox 64 is a 3D rail shooter developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64. It is the second game in the Star Fox series, and a remake of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System game Star Fox.

Graphics and Gameplay

Star Fox 64 was a groundbreaking game for its time, with stunning 3D graphics and innovative gameplay. The game’s graphics were some of the best seen on the Nintendo 64, and the gameplay was fast-paced and exciting.

Story and Characters

The story of Star Fox 64 follows the adventures of Fox McCloud and his team of anthropomorphic animals as they fight to defend the Lylat System from the evil Andross. The game features a cast of memorable characters, including Fox, Falco Lombardi, Slippy Toad, and Peppy Hare.

Influence and Legacy

Star Fox 64 was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered one of the best video games of all time. The game has been praised for its graphics, gameplay, and story, and it has influenced numerous other games in the genre.

Re-releases and Ports

Star Fox 64 has been re-released on multiple platforms, including the Nintendo 64, GameCube, Wii, and Wii U. The game has also been ported to the 3DS and Nintendo Switch.

Additional Features

In addition to its core gameplay, Star Fox 64 also features a number of additional features, including:

Feature	Description
Multiplayer	Star Fox 64 includes a multiplayer mode for up to four players.
Unlockable Characters	There are a number of unlockable characters in Star Fox 64, including Wolf O’Donnell and Pigma Dengar.
Hidden Levels	There are a number of hidden levels in Star Fox 64, including the secret level “Area 6.”

Donkey Kong 64

Donkey Kong 64 is a 3D platformer game developed by Rare and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64. The game was released in November 1999 and is the fourth game in the Donkey Kong series. Donkey Kong 64 follows Donkey Kong and his friends as they attempt to stop King K. Rool from stealing the Golden Bananas and taking over Donkey Kong Island. The game features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique challenges. Players must use Donkey Kong’s abilities to swing, jump, and climb their way through the levels, while also collecting bananas and defeating enemies.

Gameplay

Donkey Kong 64 is a 3D platformer game that features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique challenges. Players must use Donkey Kong’s abilities to swing, jump, and climb their way through the levels, while also collecting bananas and defeating enemies. The game features a variety of different characters, each with their own unique abilities. Players can switch between characters at any time to take advantage of their different strengths.

Characters

Donkey Kong 64 features a variety of different characters, each with their own unique abilities. The playable characters are Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Lanky Kong, Tiny Kong, and Chunky Kong. Each character has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must use them strategically to overcome the challenges of the game.

Levels

Donkey Kong 64 features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique challenges. The levels are set in a variety of different locations, including jungles, caves, and volcanoes. Each level is filled with enemies, obstacles, and bananas. Players must use Donkey Kong’s abilities to overcome the challenges of each level and collect all of the bananas.

Bosses

Donkey Kong 64 features a variety of different bosses, each with their own unique abilities. The bosses are located at the end of each level, and players must defeat them in order to progress. The bosses are challenging, and players must use their skills and strategies to defeat them.

Items

Donkey Kong 64 features a variety of different items that can be used to help players overcome the challenges of the game. The items include bananas, which can be used to restore health, and golden bananas, which can be used to unlock new areas. The items are scattered throughout the levels, and players must find them in order to use them.

Multiplayer

Donkey Kong 64 features a multiplayer mode that allows up to four players to compete against each other. The multiplayer mode includes a variety of different game modes, including deathmatch and racing. The multiplayer mode is a great way to have fun with friends and family.

Table of Characters

Character	Ability
Donkey Kong	Strong and fast
Diddy Kong	Small and agile
Lanky Kong	Long arms and legs
Tiny Kong	Small and fast
Chunky Kong	Strong and slow

Banjo-Tooie

Banjo-Tooie is the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved Banjo-Kazooie. This time, Banjo and Kazooie are on a mission to stop Gruntilda’s evil sister, Mingy. The game features a huge, sprawling world with a ton of secrets and collectibles to find. It’s a classic platformer that’s sure to please fans of the original game and newcomers alike.

10. Jiggywiggy’s Temple

Jiggywiggy’s Temple is an ancient temple that’s home to a wise old shaman. Banjo and Kazooie must collect five Jiggies in order to gain access to the temple’s inner sanctum. The temple is a vast and complex place, and it’s easy to get lost. But if you can find your way through, you’ll be rewarded with a powerful new move.

JIGGY	LOCATION
Blue Jiggy	Hidden in a secret passage behind a waterfall.
Green Jiggy	On top of a tall pillar in the center of the temple.
Orange Jiggy	Inside a puzzle room that requires you to use your brain.
Purple Jiggy	In a secret room that can only be accessed by using a special move.
Red Jiggy	In the temple’s inner sanctum, guarded by a powerful boss.