The Nintendo 64 hit the scene as a cartridge-based console when other consoles were focused on moving to the CD-ROM format. Despite this limitation (if you can call it that), the N64 amassed a fantastic library of games, including some of the best Mario and Zelda games ever to hit the market.
So grab your controller, gather your friends, and prepare for pulse-pounding 64-bit action!
10. Diddy Kong Racing
Diddy Kong Racing offered a unique twist on the kart racing genre, combining racing with exploration and adventure elements. Players took control of various characters, including Diddy Kong, and competed in races across imaginative tracks. The objective is to defeat rival racers, collect power-ups, and unlock new areas.
The single-player adventure mode, engaging multiplayer battles, and the ability to pilot different vehicles, including karts, planes, and hovercrafts, made it a standout title on the N64. Its charming characters, vibrant visuals, and addictive gameplay provided a memorable racing experience.
9. Perfect Dark
Perfect Dark pushed the boundaries of first-person shooters with its gripping single-player campaign and robust multiplayer mode. Players took on the role of Joanna Dark, an agent tasked with unraveling a conspiracy and saving the world from imminent danger. The game’s objective is to complete missions, gather intelligence, and engage in intense firefights.
Perfect Dark impressed players with its intricate level design, advanced AI, and diverse array of weapons and gadgets. Its cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes offered endless fun and established it as a standout shooter on the N64.
8. Pokémon Stadium
Pokémon Stadium provided a gateway for Pokémon fans to battle their cherished creatures in glorious 3D battles. Players could transfer their Pokémon from the Game Boy games and engage in strategic turn-based battles in various arenas. The objective is to defeat opponents, earn badges, and ultimately become the Pokémon Champion.
Detailed 3D models, intuitive battle mechanics, and multiplayer functionality allowed players to experience their Pokémon in a brand-new way. Its engaging mini-games and compatibility with the Game Boy Pokémon games made it a must-have for all Pokémon trainers.
7. Star Fox 64
Star Fox 64 took players on a thrilling intergalactic adventure as Fox McCloud and his team of anthropomorphic pilots. Players piloted an Arwing spacecraft through intense battles and cinematic missions. The objective is to defeat the evil Andross and save the Lylat system.
Its fast-paced gameplay, immersive 3D graphics, and memorable voice acting impressed Nintendo players worldwide. The featured branching paths, a diverse range of vehicles, and an addictive multiplayer mode added replayability and cemented its status as an N64 classic.
6. Banjo-Kazooie
Banjo-Kazooie delivered a delightful 3D platforming adventure loaded with charm and whimsy. Players took control of the bear, Banjo, and his bird companion, Kazooie, as they ventured through colorful worlds to rescue Banjo’s sister from the evil witch, Gruntilda. The game’s objective is to collect puzzle pieces known as Jiggies, solve puzzles, and overcome challenging obstacles.
Banjo-Kazooie captivated players with its vibrant worlds, memorable characters, and clever humor. Its expansive levels, innovative gameplay mechanics, and exceptional music by Grant Kirkhope made it a standout title on the N64.
5. Mario Kart 64
Mario Kart 64 leveled up the series and brought frenetic and unforgettable kart racing to the N64. Players chose from a colorful cast of characters and raced across imaginative tracks filled with power-ups, obstacles, and shortcuts. The objective is to finish in first place and claim victory.
It was a multiplayer sensation thanks to addictive gameplay, tight controls, and competitive multiplayer mode. The vibrant visuals, catchy music, and memorable track design ensured endless hours of fun and fierce competition among friends and family.
4. Super Smash Bros.
Super Smash Bros. brought together Nintendo’s beloved characters in an epic crossover fighting game and sparked an amazing new series of games. Players selected their favorite characters, such as Mario, Pikachu, or Link, and engaged in fast-paced battles across interactive stages. The objective is to knock opponents off the screen and be the last one standing.
Super Smash Bros.’ accessible gameplay, tight controls, and chaotic multiplayer matches captured the hearts of players. Its innovative concept, diverse roster of characters, and addictive multiplayer mayhem made it a staple for gaming gatherings and solidified its place among the best N64 games.
3.GoldenEye 007
GoldenEye 007 revolutionized first-person shooters on consoles, delivering an unforgettable multiplayer experience. Based on the James Bond film, players assumed the role of Agent 007 and engaged in intense missions, both single-player and multiplayer. The objective is to complete various assignments, such as infiltrating enemy bases and thwarting evil schemes.
But it was the split-screen multiplayer mode that became its most memorable feature, offering hours of competitive fun with friends. The game’s realistic weapons, engaging level design, and memorable multiplayer maps made it a defining title on the N64 and a true classic.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is regarded as one of the greatest games ever, and for good reason! As Link, players embark on a grand and epic quest to save the land of Hyrule from the clutches of the evil Ganondorf. The game combines action, exploration, and puzzle-solving in a vast open world. The objective is to obtain the Spiritual Stones, awaken the Sages, and ultimately defeat Ganondorf.
Ocarina of Time blew players’s minds with its 3D approach to the series. The immersive storyline, memorable characters, and ingenious dungeons are truly unforgettable. Its innovative Z-targeting system, breathtaking music, and cinematic presentation solidify its status as an N64 masterpiece.
1. Super Mario 64
But Zelda wasn’t the only game to successfully jump to 3D. Super Mario 64 revolutionized the platforming genre by introducing a fully 3D open world. Players assumed the role of Mario as he explored Princess Peach’s castle and ventured into various themed worlds to rescue her from Bowser’s clutches. The game’s objective is to collect Power Stars by completing challenges and solving puzzles.
Super Mario 64’s precise controls, imaginative level design, and dynamic gameplay drew in hoardes of players. It showcased the N64’s capabilities and set the standard for 3D platformers, impacting the gaming industry.
