Although Rare’s golden era peaked in the 1990s, their esteemed reputation as one of the most accomplished game developers remains intact. Today, the company is widely recognized for Sea of Thieves, a captivating open-world pirate adventure that has carved out a niche as one of the premier multiplayer gaming experiences.
In 2015, they released Rare Replay, a nostalgic collection featuring a selection of their classic titles, allowing gamers to revisit and appreciate the journey of this iconic developer. Titles like Banjo-Kazooie and GoldenEye 007 remind us of the legacy Rare has built over the years beyond their notable contributions to Donkey Kong Country.
In honor of Rare’s illustrious past, this article explores the ten best games the studio has produced, showcasing the evolution of their game design and storytelling.
10 Sea of Thieves
Ahoy!
Despite its rocky start, Sea of Thieves has evolved into one of the most engaging open-world games, especially when played with friends. The gameplay is enriched by spontaneous encounters rather than strictly following a quest list, allowing players to explore the vast oceans and uncover hidden treasures or face the dangers that lurk in the depths.
Whether embarking on treasure hunts, singing shanties, or engaging in fishing adventures, the enjoyment of Sea of Thieves multiplies when played with the right crew.
9 Diddy Kong Racing
A Worthy Competitor to Mario Kart
While Mario Kart often overshadows it, Diddy Kong Racing stands tall as a formidable arcade racer. First launched on Nintendo 64 in 1997, it later received a Nintendo DS remake in 2007. This title exceeds the expectations set by Mario Kart with its vibrant cast and innovative gameplay.
With three unique vehicle categories—karts, hovercrafts, and planes—the game consistently feels fresh, keeping players engaged across various races. Additionally, the campaign offers a vast world to explore, unlike typical racing games.
8 Banjo-Tooie
Slightly Too Much of a Good Thing
While revered by many, Banjo-Tooie sometimes overextends itself as a sequel to the beloved Banjo-Kazooie. Although it builds on an already stellar foundation, the game’s pacing suffers due to its ambitious levels and sprawling areas.
The charming writing and engaging characters remain, yet the game’s bloated nature detracts from its overall experience. Nevertheless, Banjo-Tooie still holds its place in the hearts of gamers who cherish its creativity.
7 Donkey Kong 64
An Excellent Collect-a-thon
As one of the most monumental Nintendo 64 titles, Donkey Kong 64 showcases the brand’s successful transition into 3D gameplay. While its expansive design can feel burdensome with numerous collectibles and characters, it still remains a quintessential title for fans.
The incorporation of five playable characters adds depth, although quality-of-life improvements are sorely needed, especially regarding character switching mechanics. Despite its flaws, Donkey Kong 64 excels in delivering a rich experience packed with secrets and clever level design.
6 Battletoads
Glutton for Punishment
Battletoads is infamous for its challenging gameplay that often leads to frustration and anger. Yet, those who dare to prevail experience one of the finest beat ’em ups of the 8-bit era, influencing many games to follow.
Offering a hefty challenge reminiscent of today’s Soulslike games, Battletoads provides a rewarding sense of accomplishment for players who manage to conquer its punishing levels and mechanics—all while enabling delightful co-op play.
5 Perfect Dark
Calling Agent Dark
The debate around Perfect Dark versus GoldenEye 007 remains a hot topic among gamers. Despite being a sequel to the successful formula of its predecessor, it offered a deeper experience with innovative mechanics and gameplay while facing technical limitations on the Nintendo 64.
While Perfect Dark is not devoid of framerate issues, its content-rich nature and ambitious design illustrate Rare’s commitment to pushing boundaries in game development.
4 Donkey Kong Country
Go Ahead, Hum Along with the Music
Donkey Kong Country redefined platformers with its stunning graphics and intricate level designs, creating an unforgettable experience for players. Its demanding gameplay requires precision and skill, establishing it as a cornerstone of 2D platforming mechanics.
Despite its difficulty, it remains engaging and fun, showcasing Rare’s mastery in game design. Prepare for thrilling moments, from mine cart rides to vibrant environments filled with unforgettable music and soundtracks.
3 Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest
An Incredible Sequel
Considered one of the finest sequels in gaming history, Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest enhances every aspect of the original. From refined controls to expertly crafted level design, it strikes a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment.
The game thrives on innovative ideas, maintaining a steady pace and consistently introducing new mechanics that keep players engaged throughout their adventure.
2 GoldenEye 007
It Still Holds Up Today
GoldenEye 007 is celebrated as a landmark in console FPS games, providing countless hours of enjoyment, particularly through its local split-screen multiplayer. Its level design remains exceptional, and while the controls may feel dated, the fun remains untainted.
Experiencing this game with modern controls revitalizes the gameplay, allowing players to appreciate its brilliance anew. If you haven’t yet tried the remaster, it’s a journey worth taking.
1 Banjo-Kazooie
The GOAT
Regarded as one of the greatest platformers ever, Banjo-Kazooie stands as a testament to Rare’s game development excellence. Its witty humor, memorable characters, and masterfully designed worlds create a captivating gameplay experience.
Every aspect, from level design to unbelievable soundtracks, is meticulously crafted, resulting in an engaging environment that encourages exploration without overwhelming the player. The charm and creativity of Banjo-Kazooie ensure that it continues to resonate with players and solidifies Rare’s legacy as a game developer.
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