Prepare to relive the golden era of gaming with a nostalgic journey through the Nintendo 64’s most iconic titles. Step into a realm of unforgettable adventures, groundbreaking graphics, and timeless gameplay that defined a generation of gamers. From the adrenaline-pumping speed of Mario Kart 64 to the epic battles of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, each game on this list holds a special place in the hearts of those who experienced it. Join us as we delve into the magnificent world of N64 gaming and rediscover the masterpieces that continue to inspire and captivate.
At the forefront of the N64’s legendary lineup stands Super Mario 64, a revolutionary title that shattered the boundaries of 3D platforming. With its expansive worlds, inventive level design, and unparalleled sense of freedom, Super Mario 64 set a new standard for the genre. Players embark on an epic quest to collect power stars and save Princess Peach from Bowser’s clutches, navigating through imaginative landscapes filled with secrets, challenges, and unforgettable characters. The game’s groundbreaking graphics and fluid controls pushed the N64’s capabilities to the limit, creating an immersive experience that continues to amaze and inspire.
However, the N64’s greatness extended far beyond Mario’s adventures. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time redefined the action-adventure genre, immersing players in a sprawling world filled with epic battles, intricate puzzles, and a captivating storyline. With its stunning visuals, innovative combat system, and memorable cast of characters, Ocarina of Time set a new benchmark for storytelling and gameplay in video games. From the sweeping vistas of Hyrule Field to the depths of the Shadow Temple, every moment in this timeless masterpiece is a testament to the boundless creativity and imagination of its creators.
Super Mario 64
Super Mario 64 is a landmark game in the history of video games. It was the first true 3D Mario game, and it set a new standard for what a 3D platformer could be. The game’s massive world, filled with secrets and challenges, provided countless hours of exploration and replayability.
Mario’s move set in Super Mario 64 is incredibly versatile, allowing for a wide range of acrobatic maneuvers and combat techniques. The game’s physics engine is also top-notch, giving Mario a realistic weight and momentum that makes controlling him a joy.
Super Mario 64’s graphics are also impressive for their time. The game’s colorful worlds and detailed characters are a testament to the power of the Nintendo 64 hardware. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the whimsical and adventurous tone of the game.
Power Stars
Super Mario 64 features 120 Power Stars that are scattered throughout the game’s worlds. Collecting Power Stars is essential to unlocking new areas of the game and rescuing Princess Peach from Bowser.
Power Stars can be found by completing various challenges, such as defeating enemies, solving puzzles, or completing timed trials. Some Power Stars are hidden in secret areas, while others are only accessible by using special abilities or power-ups.
100 Coin Star
In addition to the 120 Power Stars, Super Mario 64 also features 100 Coin Stars. Coin Stars are obtained by collecting 100 coins in a single level. Collecting Coin Stars is a great way to earn extra lives and unlock new power-ups.
| World | Number of Coin Stars |
|---|---|
| Bob-omb Battlefield | 5 |
| Whomp’s Fortress | 5 |
| Jolly Roger Bay | 5 |
| Cool, Cool Mountain | 5 |
| Big Boo’s Haunt | 5 |
| Haunted Castle | 5 |
| Lethal Lava Land | 5 |
| Snowman’s Land | 5 |
| Rainbow Ride | 5 |
| Dire, Dire Docks | 5 |
| Tiny-Huge Island | 5 |
| Tick Tock Clock | 5 |
| Rainbow Ride | 5 |
| Wet-Dry World | 5 |
| Desserts Castle | 5 |
GoldenEye 007
Widely regarded as one of the most revolutionary and influential first-person shooters ever made, GoldenEye 007 was a landmark release for the Nintendo 64. With its innovative gameplay, exceptional graphics, and multiplayer modes, it pushed the boundaries of the console’s capabilities and became a cornerstone of the N64’s success.
Single-Player Campaign
GoldenEye 007 featured a gripping and cinematic single-player campaign that tasked players with thwarting a global terrorist plot. With its diverse levels, challenging objectives, and memorable boss battles, the campaign provided a thrilling and engaging experience. From the opening level in the snowy mountains of Russia to the final confrontation in the Egyptian temple, players were immersed in an enthralling narrative that kept them on the edge of their seats.
Multiplayer Modes
GoldenEye 007’s multiplayer modes were equally groundbreaking. With support for up to four players in split-screen or over LAN, it revolutionized console multiplayer shooters. The game offered several game modes, including Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, and Golden Gun, each with its unique set of rules and gameplay mechanics. The maps were meticulously designed to foster intense and strategic battles, ensuring replayability and countless hours of entertainment.
| Game Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Deathmatch | Free-for-all battle where players compete to kill each other. |
| Team Deathmatch | Teams of two or four players battle each other. |
| Golden Gun | Each player has a golden gun with only one bullet. If a player kills another with the golden gun, they receive a new bullet. |
GoldenEye 007’s multiplayer modes were so popular that they became the benchmark for console shooters for years to come. They fostered a competitive and social gaming environment, creating lasting memories and solidifying the game’s legacy as a pioneer in the genre.
Perfect Dark
Perfect Dark is a first-person shooter game developed by Rare and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64. It was released in May 2000 and is considered one of the best first-person shooters on the console.
The game follows the story of Joanna Dark, a secret agent who is tasked with investigating a terrorist organization known as the Carrington Institute. The game features a variety of weapons and gadgets, as well as a number of different multiplayer modes, including the popular “GoldenEye 007”-style deathmatch mode.
Gameplay
Perfect Dark is a first-person shooter game in which the player controls Joanna Dark, a secret agent who is tasked with investigating a terrorist organization known as the Carrington Institute. The game features a variety of weapons and gadgets, as well as a number of different multiplayer modes.
Weapons
Perfect Dark features a wide variety of weapons, including pistols, shotguns, assault rifles, and sniper rifles. Each weapon has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must choose the right weapon for the right situation.
Gadgets
Perfect Dark also features a number of different gadgets that can be used to help players complete their missions. These gadgets include night vision goggles, a grappling hook, and a remote mine.
Multiplayer
Perfect Dark features a number of different multiplayer modes, including the popular “GoldenEye 007”-style deathmatch mode. Other multiplayer modes include Capture the Flag, King of the Hill, and a variety of objective-based modes.
Counter-Operative
The Counter-Operative mode is a unique multiplayer mode in Perfect Dark that pits two teams of four players against each other. In this mode, one team plays as the Counter-Operatives, while the other team plays as the Carrington Institute. The Counter-Operatives must complete a series of objectives, while the Carrington Institute must stop them.
| Weapon | Description |
|---|---|
| Farsight XR-20 | A powerful sniper rifle with a zoom function |
| Dragon | A shotgun with devastating power at close range |
| Bulldog | A versatile assault rifle with a high rate of fire |
Donkey Kong 64
Donkey Kong 64 is a 3D platformer released for the Nintendo 64 in 1999. The game features Donkey Kong and five of his friends as they attempt to defeat King K. Rool and his minions. Donkey Kong 64 is known for its large world, variety of characters, and challenging gameplay.
Key Features
Donkey Kong 64 has several key features that make it stand out from other platformers:
- Large world: The game world is massive, with over 100 levels to explore.
- Variety of characters: Players can choose to play as Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Lanky Kong, Tiny Kong, Chunky Kong, or Funky Kong. Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyle.
- Challenging gameplay: The game is not for the faint of heart, as it features difficult puzzles and boss fights.
Story
The story of Donkey Kong 64 is simple but effective. King K. Rool has stolen the Golden Bananas from Donkey Kong Island, and it’s up to Donkey Kong and his friends to get them back.
Characters
Donkey Kong 64 features a cast of six playable characters, each with their own unique abilities:
| Character | Abilities |
|---|---|
| Donkey Kong | Strong and powerful, can climb walls |
| Diddy Kong | Agile and quick, can use his jetpack to fly |
| Lanky Kong | Long-armed and lanky, can stretch his arms to reach faraway objects |
| Tiny Kong | Small and nimble, can crawl through tight spaces |
| Chunky Kong | Large and muscular, can crush enemies with his weight |
| Funky Kong | Surfer dude, can use his surfboard to glide across water |
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
A Breath of Fresh Air
Upon the release of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, we were greeted with a drastic departure from the typical Zelda formula. The traditional medieval setting was replaced by an expansive ocean world, and the story centered around a young Link searching for his sister.
A Sprawling Ocean to Explore
One of the most striking features of The Wind Waker is its vast and open ocean. Sailing across the Great Sea is an exhilarating experience, with countless islands to discover and secrets to uncover.
A Dynamic and Engaging Combat System
The Wind Waker boasts a refined and satisfying combat system that allows for a wide variety of attacks and combos. Link’s signature swordplay is enhanced by the use of a conductor’s baton, which grants him the ability to control the wind and conduct the elements.
A Rich and Immersive World
The Wind Waker’s world is inhabited by a vibrant cast of characters and a plethora of hidden details. From the charming inhabitants of Outset Island to the enigmatic sages of the Wind Temple, the game is full of life and personality.
Innovative Puzzles and Dungeons
The Zelda series is known for its challenging and imaginative puzzles, and The Wind Waker is no exception. The dungeons are expertly crafted, each with unique themes and boss battles that test the player’s skills and ingenuity.
Epic Boss Battles
The Wind Waker features some of the most memorable boss battles in the Zelda series. From the towering Helmaroc King to the colossal Puppet Ganon, these encounters are epic in scale and require strategic planning to overcome.
Stunning Visuals
The Wind Waker was a graphical marvel for its time, and its cel-shaded art style remains visually striking today. The vibrant colors and exaggerated expressions bring the characters and world to life in a truly unique way.
A Timeless Adventure
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker has stood the test of time, remaining a cherished and highly regarded entry in the series. Its innovative gameplay, captivating world, and unforgettable characters continue to enchant players to this day.
Additional Features
Here are some additional features that make The Wind Waker a truly special experience:
| Feature |
|---|
| Expansion of the Triforce Lore |
| Introduction of the Tingle Character |
| Unique and memorable soundtrack |
| Nintendo GameCube connectivity for the Nintendo Game Boy Advance |
Super Smash Bros.
Super Smash Bros. is a crossover fighting game developed by HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64. It was released in Japan in January 1999, in North America in April 1999, and in Europe in November 1999. The game features a roster of twelve characters from various Nintendo franchises, including Mario, Donkey Kong, Link, and Samus Aran. Players control these characters in a battle arena, where they must use a variety of attacks and special abilities to knock their opponents out of the arena.
Super Smash Bros. was a critical and commercial success, selling over 5 million copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, which combined elements of fighting games with platforming and puzzle elements. The game also spawned a successful series of sequels, including Super Smash Bros. Melee, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Characters
Super Smash Bros. features a roster of twelve playable characters:
| Character | Franchise |
|---|---|
| Mario | Mario |
| Donkey Kong | Donkey Kong |
| Link | The Legend of Zelda |
| Samus Aran | Metroid |
| Yoshi | Yoshi |
| Kirby | Kirby |
| Fox McCloud | Star Fox |
| Pikachu | Pokémon |
| Luigi | Mario |
| Ness | EarthBound |
| Captain Falcon | F-Zero |
| Jigglypuff | Pokémon |
Gameplay
Super Smash Bros. is a crossover fighting game with a unique gameplay style that combines elements of fighting games, platforming, and puzzle games. The game is played in a battle arena, where players control one of the twelve playable characters. The goal of the game is to knock your opponents out of the arena by using a variety of attacks and special abilities.
There are three main types of attacks in Super Smash Bros.: standard attacks, special attacks, and smash attacks. Standard attacks are basic attacks that can be performed by pressing the A button. Special attacks are more powerful attacks that can be performed by pressing the B button. Smash attacks are the most powerful attacks in the game, and can be performed by pressing the A button and then the B button. In addition to these attacks, players can also use a variety of items that can be found in the battle arena. These items can be used to give players an advantage in battle, such as by increasing their attack power or healing them.
Modes
Super Smash Bros. features a variety of different game modes, including:
- 1-Player Mode: In this mode, players can play against computer-controlled opponents.
- 2-4 Player Mode: In this mode, players can play against each other or against computer-controlled opponents.
- Tournament Mode: In this mode, players compete in a tournament against a series of computer-controlled opponents.
- Training Mode: In this mode, players can practice their skills against a computer-controlled opponent.
Metroid Prime
Released in 2002, Metroid Prime was a groundbreaking first-person adventure game that revolutionized the Metroid franchise. It introduced 3D gameplay to the series, while retaining the exploration, problem-solving, and combat elements that had made it so popular.
Stunning Visuals
Metroid Prime’s graphics were nothing short of stunning for its time. The vibrant and detailed environments brought the world of Tallon IV to life, creating a truly immersive experience.
Immersive Environment
The game’s environments were not just beautiful, but also incredibly detailed and atmospheric. The player could scan objects to learn more about the history and ecology of Tallon IV, adding depth and richness to the game world.
Innovative Combat
Metroid Prime’s combat system was both challenging and rewarding. The player could use a variety of weapons and upgrades to defeat enemies, and each encounter required careful planning and execution.
Boss Battles
The game’s boss battles were particularly memorable, featuring unique designs, challenging attacks, and epic scale. Defeating these colossal foes required strategy and skill, making them some of the most satisfying moments in the game.
Exploration
Metroid Prime encouraged exploration and discovery. Players could explore the vast and interconnected world of Tallon IV, uncovering secrets, solving puzzles, and finding new upgrades.
Atmosphere
The game’s atmosphere was both eerie and awe-inspiring. The isolated planet of Tallon IV, with its strange flora and fauna, created a sense of mystery and wonder.
Replayability
Metroid Prime was highly replayable, with multiple endings and a large number of secrets to find. Players could spend hours exploring every nook and cranny of Tallon IV, discovering new details and challenges.
Legacy
Metroid Prime was a critical and commercial success, and is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time. It inspired numerous sequels and spin-offs, and its impact on the first-person adventure genre is still felt today.
Awards and Recognition
Metroid Prime won numerous awards, including Game of the Year from multiple publications. It was also listed as one of the “Greatest Games of All Time” by several gaming magazines.
Key Innovations
| Feature | Innovation |
|---|---|
| 3D Gameplay | Brought the Metroid franchise to a fully 3D environment. |
| Immersive Environments | Created detailed and atmospheric worlds that encouraged exploration. |
| Innovative Combat | Introduced a variety of weapons and upgrades, requiring strategic combat. |
| Boss Battles | Featured epic and challenging encounters with unique boss enemies. |
| Exploration | Allowed players to explore interconnected worlds and uncover secrets. |
The Greatest Games of the Nintendo 64
The Nintendo 64 (N64) was a groundbreaking console that introduced revolutionary 3D graphics and gameplay to the world of gaming. Released in 1996, the N64 quickly became a beloved favorite, and its extensive library of games continues to be cherished by fans today. Amidst the many exceptional titles, a select few stand out as the absolute best the console has to offer.
One of the most iconic and beloved N64 games is “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.” Widely regarded as one of the greatest video games ever made, Ocarina of Time seamlessly blends action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements into an epic and unforgettable journey. Its vast open world, engaging characters, and captivating story captivated gamers and set new standards for the genre.
Another N64 classic is “Super Mario 64.” This groundbreaking platformer revolutionized 3D movement and gameplay mechanics, allowing players to explore a massive and vibrant castle filled with secrets and challenges. Mario’s fluid and precise controls, combined with the game’s imaginative level design, made Super Mario 64 an instant hit and a lasting masterpiece.
For those seeking a thrilling and action-packed experience, “GoldenEye 007” stands as one of the best FPS games ever created. Based on the popular James Bond film, GoldenEye features intense multiplayer modes, innovative gadgets, and challenging single-player missions. Its fast-paced gameplay and iconic levels have made it an indispensable part of the N64’s legacy.
People Also Ask
What other N64 games are highly recommended?
In addition to the top three games mentioned above, other highly recommended N64 games include:
- “Banjo-Kazooie”
- “The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask”
- “Super Smash Bros.”
- “Star Fox 64”
- “Perfect Dark”
What console is the N64 comparable to?
The N64 is generally seen as comparable to the original PlayStation and Sega Saturn consoles in terms of graphical capabilities and gameplay experience.
Is the N64 still popular today?
Yes, the N64 remains a popular retro console, with dedicated fans playing and rediscovering its iconic games. Emulators and re-releases have also made it accessible to new generations of gamers.
