10 Best N64 Games Of All Time

When the Nintendo 64 console was first launched in 1996, it was a significant technological leap over the previous systems, bringing the capability of more impressive 3D graphics with its 64-bit technology. Many of Nintendo's game franchises, such as,, and, were made even more popular during this console's lifespan. Also, the N64 was a much better choice for friends and families to enjoy games together, with its four controller ports and many of its new titles facilitating multiplayer gaming.

The catalog of games that were made available for the N64 included many popular third-party games as well as official Nintendo properties. These games may be a bit clunky to go back to today without remakes or remasters being done, yet they also form some of the fondest gaming memories for many who played during that era. While the system had many favorites, here are some of the best games from the N64, based on general reviews and Metacritic scores.

was one of the highest-selling video games in 1997, second only to, and offered split-screen multiplayer for up to four players at once. The sci-fi style game focused on Fox and his friends flying in space and shooting the enemy henchmen and bosses, with two possible endings. It received a lot of praise for its replayability with a branching level system that offered new paths unlocked by meeting objectives and the ability to earn medals. Paired with its precise controls, the shoot 'em up earned itself a Metacritic score of 88.

During a time when 3D gaming was still being figured out, struggled a bit with camera controls but was otherwise a very enjoyable experience. The game lets players explore an island while collecting items, playing minigames, and solving puzzles while following an overarching storyline. Like many of the N64 games, it did offer multiplayer with five characters that each offered unique gameplay and there were special minigames available for two to four players, helping to land it with a Metacritic score of 90.