The Nintendo 64 (N64) was a groundbreaking console that introduced 3D gaming to the mainstream and hosted a diverse library of iconic and beloved games. Here are some of the top N64 games, categorized by their genres and impact.
First-Person Shooters
GoldenEye 007: Often cited as one of the best movie tie-ins and a pivotal game in the FPS genre, GoldenEye 007 revolutionized multiplayer gaming with its four-player deathmatches. Its influence on the console FPS genre is still felt today[4][5].
Perfect Dark: Building on the success of GoldenEye, Perfect Dark offered a more refined and expansive FPS experience with a strong single-player campaign and robust multiplayer options[2][5].
Action and Adventure
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time, Ocarina of Time set a new standard for 3D action-adventure games with its innovative Z-targeting system and rich storyline[2][5].
The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask: The sequel to Ocarina of Time, Majora’s Mask is known for its unique time-loop mechanic and darker tone, offering a distinct and engaging experience[2][5].
Platformers
Super Mario 64: This game was a launch title for the N64 and is often credited with defining the 3D platformer genre. It introduced Mario to the third dimension and remains a classic[2][4][5].
Banjo-Kazooie: Developed by Rare, Banjo-Kazooie is a charming platformer that emphasizes teamwork between the bear Banjo and his bird friend Kazooie. It is praised for its humor, clever level design, and engaging gameplay[2][5].
Racing Games
Mario Kart 64: The first 3D installment in the Mario Kart series, Mario Kart 64 brought the beloved kart racing formula into the third dimension, featuring large, undulating circuits and a four-player multiplayer mode[4].
F-Zero X: Known for its high-speed racing, F-Zero X is a futuristic racing game that challenges players to navigate complex tracks at speeds over 1,000 km/h[5].
Star Wars Episode I: Racer: Based on the pod racing scene from The Phantom Menace, this game captures the high-octane energy of the movie sequence with a deep upgrade and trading system and unique controls[1].
Sports and Fighting Games
WWF No Mercy: A wrestling game that is still highly regarded for its gameplay and roster, WWF No Mercy is a favorite among wrestling fans and N64 enthusiasts[2][3].
Mario Tennis: A sports game that combines the charm of Mario characters with the excitement of tennis, Mario Tennis offers a fun and accessible sports experience[2][3].
Other Notable Games
Star Fox 64: An on-rails shooter that introduced force feedback to console gaming through the Rumble Pak, Star Fox 64 is known for its cinematic battles and precise controls[4].
Paper Mario: A unique RPG that blends the Mario universe with paper-thin characters, Paper Mario offers a deep and charming adventure that has stood the test of time[4].
Conker’s Bad Fur Day: A mature-themed platformer known for its dark humor and challenging gameplay, Conker’s Bad Fur Day is a cult classic among N64 fans[5].
Multiplayer and Party Games
Super Smash Bros.: The first game in the popular Smash Bros. series, Super Smash Bros. brought together iconic Nintendo characters for chaotic and fun multiplayer battles[2].
Mario Party: A series of party games that emphasize local multiplayer, Mario Party offers a variety of mini-games and board game-style gameplay that is perfect for gatherings[2].
Most Important Facts About the Best N64 Games
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is consistently ranked as one of the best games of all time, known for its innovative 3D gameplay and rich storyline[2][5].
GoldenEye 007 revolutionized the FPS genre on consoles and is remembered for its groundbreaking multiplayer mode[4][5].
Super Mario 64 defined the 3D platformer genre and remains a classic in the Mario series[2][4][5].
Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie are highly praised for their creative level design, humor, and engaging gameplay[2][5].
Perfect Dark is a highly regarded FPS that built upon the success of GoldenEye 007 with improved graphics and gameplay[2][5].
Mario Kart 64 and F-Zero X are standout racing games that showcased the N64’s capabilities in high-speed racing[4][5].
Star Fox 64 introduced force feedback to console gaming and is still praised for its cinematic battles and precise controls[4].
Paper Mario and Conker’s Bad Fur Day offer unique RPG and platformer experiences that have become cult classics[4][5].
These games represent some of the best that the Nintendo 64 had to offer, each contributing to the console’s legacy and influence on the gaming industry.
