During the recent Nintendo Direct showcase, a sizzle reel was shown to demonstrate the lineup of N64 games that will be available soon for Nintendo Switch Online, as well as a tease that future games will be brought to the platform. This legacy content is a great way for gamers new and old to discover the many classics that helped make Nintendo what it is today.
At the time, the N64's four controller ports were revolutionary (upping the standard controller count by an extra two). This led to many endless nights of addictive and unforgettable gaming matches in titles like Goldeneye 007 and Mario Party. Below is a summary of every N64 game coming the Nintendo Switch Online service that features a multiplayer component.
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Dr. Mario 64
Arriving on the N64 just at the tail end of its life cycle in 2001, Dr. Mario 64 was a solid puzzle game with a charming visual style and catchy music. A follow up to the original title on the NES, this game added even more game modes and multiplayer offerings for players to enjoy for hours on end. Fans of Tetris 99 and other modern, min- bending experiences would do well to check this game out when it hits Switch online.
Mario Kart 64
The Mario Kart franchise has become a staple of multiplayer gaming, with every installment since the SNES original bringing something new to the table. Mario Kart 64 truly kicked things into high gear at the time, thanks to the more advanced 3D graphics of the N64 and the smoother control movements available due to the N64's analog stick.
Mario Tennis
From one Mario game to another, the wacky plumber and his friends seem to have tackled every conceivable genre in gaming. Sports simulators are no exception, adding in that colorful Mario spin, something which Mario Tennis excelled at. Featuring a variety of characters to choose from and fun game modes to enjoy, this title is a fairly straightforward tennis video game, but the added Mario charm makes it worth a look.
StarFox 64
StarFox 64 was revolutionary in many ways when it first hit the scene in 1997. The N64's rumble pak added vibration to the controller, the smooth frame rate kept the action fast and smooth, and the multiplayer component added dozens more hours to an already enjoyable single player story. The split-screen chaos of the original can now be played online thanks to the capabilities of the Switch online service, which is sure to attract a new legion of fans to this beloved classic.
WinBack
WinBack was ahead of its time thanks to its cover based shooting and reticle based aiming system (a mechanic later perfected by Resident Evil 4). The frenetic gunplay made for a tense gameplay experience, something which still holds up today. While it may not be as impressive as modern offerings like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, players curious about old-school shooters owe this one a look.
F-Zero X
For racing enthusiasts that can't get enough of Mario Kart 64, F-Zero X as an alternative fast-paced game. The blistering 60 frames per second help elevate the blistering sense of speed, while the variety of tracks and characters help add to the replay value. Even by today's standards, this game is a robust package. Hopefully, this title being on Nintendo Switch Online will renew interest in the franchise and encourage Nintendo to make a new F-Zero game.
Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards
The reveal trailer for Kirby andThe Forgotten Land has fans in a tizzy for the cuddly platforming franchise's big return. To prepare before its release, fans can play Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards, as it contains all the upbeat music, fun power-ups, and colorful scenery gamers expect. The added multiplayer mini-games are an extra icing on the cake, adding hours of fun well after the main story is finished.
Mario Golf
Another example of how the Mario cast has tackled every genre, the original Mario Golf is a solid digital version of the popular sport, but with an obvious Mario twist. A solid bevy of game modes and the expected Nintendo characters make this a breezy yet competitive multiplayer experience. It is sure to be a standout offering for Nintendo Switch Online when it becomes available.
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