Top 10 best Nintendo 64 games: a blast from the past!

Ah, the good old days of video gaming! Do you remember when the Nintendo 64 was the hottest console in town? If you do, you're in for a treat because we're taking a trip down memory lane to relive the best Nintendo 64 games that still bring the fun today. 

So, grab your controller, and let's dive into the world of 64-bit gaming!

10. GoldenEye 007

GoldenEye 007 was the game that proved that console shooter could be just as good as their PC counterparts. 

Based on the James Bond movie of the same name, GoldenEye 007 had players take on the role of Bond as he tried to stop a terrorist organization from using a satellite weapon to destroy London.

Players could choose to go in guns blazing or try to take a more covert approach, sneaking around and silently taking out enemies. And let's remember the multiplayer game introduced many of us to split-screen deathmatches.

9. Blast Corps

Blast Corps was a game that was all about destruction. Players took on the role of demolition experts who had to clear a path for a runaway nuclear missile by destroying buildings and obstacles in its way.

What made Blast Corps so unique was its focus on puzzles. Each level presented players with a new challenge, and it was up to them to figure out the best way to use their demolition equipment to clear a path for the missile.

But what made Blast Corps stand out was its sense of humor. The game never took itself too seriously, with silly characters and over-the-top explosions. And who could forget the catchy music?

8. Paper Mario

Paper Mario was a game that was all about charm. Players took on the role of Mario as he explored a world made entirely out of paper, battling enemies and solving puzzles along the way.

What made Paper Mario so special was its humor. The game was filled with silly jokes and puns, and its characters were all memorable and quirky. And the game's turn-based battle system, which allowed players to time their attacks for extra damage, was fun and strategic.

The game's world felt alive and vibrant, with hidden areas to explore and secrets to uncover. And the game's story, while simple, was heartwarming and memorable.

This game showed us that  RPGs could be about more than just grinding for levels. The game invited us into a fascinating and colorful world and reminded us that sometimes the simplest stories could be the most engaging.

7. Star Fox 64

Star Fox 64 was a game that made us feel like we were flying through space. 

As Fox McCloud and his team of anthropomorphic animals, we blasted our way through enemy ships and dodged asteroids in a quest to save the Lylat system from the evil Andross.

Players could choose to fly in all-range mode or linear levels, each with their own challenges. 

Starfox 64 was a game that captured our imaginations. The game showed us that shooters could be about more than just shooting - they could be about exploration, discovery, and adventure.

6. Mario Kart 64

Ah, Mario Kart - the ultimate party game. Mario Kart 64 was a game that brought people together. Whether you were racing against your friends or battling it out in battle mode, Mario Kart 64 was always a good time.

One of the things that made Mario Kart 64 so special was its balance. Each character had strengths and weaknesses, and each track had unique challenges. Also, let's not forget the power-ups - nothing more satisfying than hitting your friend with a well-timed red shell.

What made Mario Kart 64 a hit was its multiplayer mode. Four players could play simultaneously, and there was always a sense of tension as you tried to outmaneuver your opponents. 

Mario Kart 64 was a game that defined our childhoods, and it's a game that we'll always hold dear.

5. Banjo-Kazooie

Banjo-Kazooie was a game that was all about exploration. Players took on the role of Banjo, a bear, and Kazooie, a bird, as they explored a vibrant world filled with secrets and hidden areas.

What made Banjo-Kazooie so special was its variety. Each level had unique challenges, from swimming through underwater tunnels to flying with Kazooie's wings. And let's please remember the collectibles - finding all the jiggies and musical notes was a challenge that kept players coming back for more.

Banjo-Kazooiewas is full of charm. The characters were colorful and memorable, from the grumpy mole Bottles to the evil witch Gruntilda. And the game's sense of humor was infectious, with silly jokes and pop culture references scattered throughout.

Banjo-Kazooie invited us to explore, uncover its secrets, and have fun along the way.

4. Super Mario 64

Super Mario 64 was a game that changed the way we thought about platformers. 

Instead of linear levels, players were dropped into an open world filled with secrets to discover and challenges to overcome. The graphics were stunning, and the controls were tight and responsive. We knew we were in for something special when we stepped into Peach's castle.

One of the things that made Super Mario 64 so memorable was the sheer variety of gameplay mechanics. From flying with the wing cap to swimming through underwater caverns, Super Mario 64 kept us on our toes. And let's not forget the power-ups - who didn't love running around as a giant Mario or turning invisible?

Super Mario 64 set the standard for 3D platformers, a game that still holds up today. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Super Mario 64 is a must-play for any Nintendo 64 owner.

3. Diddy Kong Racing

Diddy Kong Racing was a game that took the kart racing genre and turned it on its head. Players could choose from various characters, including Diddy Kong, Banjo, and Conker the Squirrel, and race through different tracks ranging from traditional kart racing to flying and hovercraft challenges.

What made Diddy Kong Racing so unique was its single-player adventure mode. Players had to explore a hub world, collect coins, and race bosses to unlock new areas and challenges. Also, the game's power-ups ranged from traditional weapons to speed boosts and even a shield.

But what made Diddy Kong Racing stand out was its variety. With three different vehicle types and a variety of tracks that included hidden shortcuts and obstacles, every race felt fresh and exciting. And the game's multiplayer, while less refined than Mario Kart 64, was still a blast to play with friends.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a game that needs no introduction. We knew we were in for something special when we saw Link ride Epona across Hyrule Field. Ocarina of Time was a game that pushed the limits of what was possible on the Nintendo 64, with its massive world, engaging story, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Players could switch between child and adult Link, each with their abilities and challenges. And remember the ocarina playing different songs could warp Link to other locations or even change the time of day? Just marvelous.

But what made Ocarina of Time stand out was its characters. Every character was memorable and well-written, from the sassy fairy Navi to the wise Princess Zelda. And who could forget the villainous Ganondorf, with his imposing presence and iconic laugh?

Ocarina of Time is a game that has stood the test of time. If you haven't played it, pick up a copy.

1. Super Smash Bros.

Super Smash Bros. is definitely one of the greatest games of all time. After all,  it’s a game that brought all of our favorite Nintendo characters together for an epic battle royale. 

What made Super Smash Bros. so special was its accessibility. The controls were simple and intuitive, making it easy for anyone to pick up and play. And the gameplay was fast-paced and exciting, with various moves and special attacks for each character.

Playing with friends was a blast, with matches that could last for hours as players tried to knock each other off the stage. And the game's unlockables - from new characters to hidden stages - kept players coming back for more.

Honorable Mentions:

• A-Star Wars Rogue Squadron

Picture this: you're piloting an X-wing, cruising through the vastness of space, engaged in epic dogfights against the forces of evil. That's the thrill that A-Star Wars Rogue Squadron brought to our Nintendo 64 screens. 

This game was a masterclass in Star Wars aerial combat, with its stunning graphics and heart-pounding missions.

• Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards

And who could forget about our pink puffball friend, Kirby? In Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards, our beloved hero embarked on a colorful and whimsical adventure. 

Armed with the ability to combine powers, Kirby explored vibrant worlds, vanquishing foes and collecting crystal shards. With its charming visuals, delightful platforming, and Kirby's trademark cuteness, this game was a nostalgic treat that brought smiles to our faces.

• Pokemon Stadium

We can't overlook the electrifying battles of Pokemon Stadium. This game took our beloved Pokemon battles and transformed them into epic showdowns on the big screen. 

With the ability to transfer our trained Pokemon from the Game Boy games, Pokemon Stadium allowed us to witness our favorite creatures duke it out in glorious 3D. From strategizing our moves to competing in thrilling mini-games, Pokemon Stadium hooked us, providing endless hours of fun and fierce competition.

• The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask

And finally, we venture into the dark and mysterious realm of Majora's Mask. This enchanting and haunting adventure took us on a time-bending journey through the land of Termina. With the world's fate hanging in the balance, we faced daunting challenges, met unforgettable characters, and experienced a narrative that delved into themes of loss and redemption. 

Majora's Mask pushed the boundaries of what a Zelda game could be, leaving an indelible mark on our gaming memories.

These great games also deserve a special place in our hearts. They added their unique flavors to the Nintendo 64 experience, delivering moments of excitement, joy, and even introspection.

Relive the good old days.

As we come to the end of our nostalgic journey through the best Nintendo 64 games, we can't help but feel a sense of longing for those good old days of gaming. These games defined our childhoods and gave us memories that we'll cherish forever.

But just because those days are gone, it doesn't mean we can't relive them. That's where Gamestate comes in. With a range of classic arcade games, including some of the Nintendo 64 games we've mentioned, Gamestate is the perfect place to get your nostalgia fix.

So, if you're feeling wistful for the days of yore, head down to Gamestate and relive some of those classic gaming moments.

Happy gaming! Thank you for joining us on this trip down memory lane. It's been a blast reminiscing about the best Nintendo 64 games, and we hope you've enjoyed it as much as we have.