The N64

The Nintendo 64, abbreviated to N64, was Nintendo’s 64-bit console that followed the 16 bit Super NES. It was, the first true 64 bit games machine (unless you support the notion that the Jaguar was) which supported cartridges as opposed to CD.

Moreover, this in itself, was probably the most controversial aspect of the console. While their rivals, like Sony, used the CD Nintendo continued to support the cartridge format. These had less storage capacity than CD, were more expensive but were faster and more durable.

Such a move would have some repercussions. They would lose some third-party support from games developers, put off by the more expensive cartridge and less storage capacity available. As such, fewer games were made for the N64 than that of the Playstation.

As such, a good number of the consoles best games were made by Nintendo themselves. Starting with the flagship title, Mario 64, this was very impressive and ensured a good launch. The game perfectly complimented the joypad’s analogue stick, and likewise made for the most original and possibly best Mario game seen at the time. A classic was born.

For Nintendo, they had a number of great game series that could make use of the 64-bit 3d magic. Zelda was one such, and with Ocarina of Time, they had another big asset for the console. Haled by many, Majora’s Mask would be released as a follow up title to it. Again, both proved excellent Nintendo games. Aside, Star Fox, Mario Kart, Kirbie and co were all Nintendo games that would make it onto the console well enough.

Third party support, best came from Rare whose partnership with Nintendo would prove fruitful for the console. Their first person shooter, Goldeneye, provided a great movie tie in that gave the N64 its best shoot em up. To many, it was one of the best games of its type.

Rare would also bring out other great games for the console. Banjo Kazooie was not exactly hugely different from Mario 64, but still proved to be another great 3d platform game for the console. Other Rare flagships, like Donkey Kong, would also make the grade on the console.

So, the console had some classic games on it. Just for a handful of the best titles, it was worth acquiring the console. Even if the N64 games library was somewhat smaller in comparison to rivals, you can always say quality over quantity is important.

The delayed release of the console, always left it with ground to make up on the Playstation. Commercially, it did not do as well as that console, but it proved a worthy enough rival. When it was released, it did sell well and had it actually been released sooner then it may well have been all the more competitive. Still, a very good console, lacking a little in choice perhaps for some, but still boasting some superb games and a line of mediocre ones.