The years between 1996 and 2002 marked a transformative era in the realm of video gaming, brightened by the emergence of the Nintendo 64. Throughout this pivotal time, Nintendo released every one of its games for the N64, culminating in an impressive yet modest total of 388 titles. This count feels almost humorous when comparing it to today’s gaming landscape, where platforms like the Nintendo Switch eShop can introduce similar numbers within a mere week. But at the dawn of the new millennium, the focus was firmly set on quality rather than quantity, as the N64 delivered several legendary experiences.
To commemorate my favorite video game console, let’s journey back to identify the standout title from each year—1996 to 2002—during which new cartridges rolled out for the N64. This list will take into account critical reception to determine the best game of each year, allowing for my personal opinions and how these games resonate with modern audiences to influence the rankings.
Using North American release dates as the basis for selection, I will rely solely on data from MetaCritic for critical assessments, given OpenCritic’s more recent establishment.
7 2002 – Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3
MetaCritic Score: Unavailable
Unquestionably, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 emerged as the top game for the N64 in 2002, though that was primarily because it was the only game released that year. With N64 production having ceased the prior year, game cartridges were effectively a thing of the past. THPS3, however, managed to make a final appearance on the console.
I have a deep appreciation for the THPS series, and I can confidently say that THPS3 is a strong contender for my all-time favorite. Nevertheless, the reality is that most players gravitated toward the superior PS2 version boasting enhanced graphics and superior controls. Comparing THPS3 on the N64 to its PlayStation counterpart feels surreal if you experienced the latter first.
Despite its shortcomings, THPS3 is still a solid game. However, it lacks significant advancements over its predecessors on the N64, especially as the console’s relevance was waning in 2002. The game mainly serves as a nostalgic piece for collectors aiming to complete their N64 lifecycles.
6 1997 – GoldenEye 007
MetaCritic Score: 96
GoldenEye 007 redefined the landscape of first-person shooters and remains one of the most culturally significant games on the N64. Many players, including myself, adopted inverted controls simply because that was the default in GoldenEye. Its influence during the time was tremendous.
In more recent times, however, going back to GoldenEye can be a challenge due to its outdated mechanics. While it revolutionized console FPS gaming, it primarily serves as a nostalgic piece rather than an engaging experience for modern players. Yet, we must recognize the joy it brought through 4-player split-screen multiplayer sessions, which were a highlight of my childhood gaming days, alongside the often comedic single-player campaign.
Alternative titles for 1997 worth mentioning include Blast Corps, Diddy Kong Racing, and Star Fox 64. While any of these could have earned the crown, GoldenEye’s undeniable impact on gaming culture secures its spot in gaming history.
5 2000 – Perfect Dark
MetaCritic Score: 97
Developed by Rare, the whizzes behind GoldenEye 007, Perfect Dark stands out as another crowning achievement for the N64. It’s remarkable that Rare created not just one, but two iconic shooters on this console, both of which have received accolades in their respective release years.
Perfect Dark improved on many of the kinks found in GoldenEye, despite the limitations posed by the N64’s lack of dual-analog controls. Joanna Dark became an iconic figure in gaming, even if her subsequent recognition didn’t match the accolades her debut earned, especially after the cancellation of the anticipated Perfect Dark AAAA reboot.
Had this list been based solely on my preferences, The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask would have claimed top honors for 2000. However, Perfect Dark remains an undisputed champion as per critical evaluations.
4 1999 – Mario Golf
MetaCritic Score: 91
While the previous titles have their merits, the remaining selections are absolute favorites in my household. Mario Golf was a significant precursor to the future success of Toadstool Tour on GameCube. It’s critical to note that this N64 rendition still holds considerable charm and playability for anyone willing to dive into it today.
One particularly delightful feature is the mini-golf mode—though elementary—it’s a fun addition that hasn’t made a return in later Mario Golf titles. This version also introduced quirky characters, such as Sonny, who captured attention with his cowboy hat. Although future installments would surpass Mario Golf’s gameplay, it remains engaging decades later.
3 1996 – Super Mario 64
MetaCritic Score: 94
Launched alongside the N64 in 1996, Super Mario 64 was revolutionary and stands as a benchmark for console launch titles. It fundamentally transformed 3D platforming, laying the groundwork for countless titles to follow. Its significance within the gaming realm cannot be overstated.
I vividly recall coming home from preschool to find my brother captivated by this game. It ignited my own passion for gaming that has only grown since. Each painted canvas opened a whimsical world, creating a multitude of cherished memories—whether it was tossing a penguin from a cliff or manipulating the flow of time in Tick Tock Clock. Though the camera mechanics may not age well in contemporary times, the overall gameplay fully retains its charm and relevance for genre enthusiasts.
2 2001 – Paper Mario
MetaCritic Score: 93
Initially, I thought Paper Mario was a bizarre joke when I first saw its commercial. However, upon its release in North America in 2001, it quickly became a standout title that exceeded all expectations. Paper Mario ranks among my top turn-based games and, in many aspects, surpasses its predecessor, Super Mario RPG.
The game injects humor and creativity into the Mario universe like never before, transforming my perception of turn-based RPGs. Even today, Paper Mario continues to shine as one of the best entries in the JRPG genre—its badge system is engaging, the characters are endearing, and its expansive adventure is awe-inspiring. Although its sequel, The Thousand-Year Door, may be considered the quintessential Paper Mario experience, the original laid the groundwork for a distinctive art style and innovative gameplay. It rightfully claims a spot among the top five N64 games of all time.
1 1998 – The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time
MetaCritic Score: 99
Could there have ever been any uncertainty about this choice? The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time not only dominated 1998 as the highest-rated N64 title, but it also ascends as the pinnacle of the console’s library overall. It boasts an astounding MetaCritic score of 99, making it a standout in the annals of gaming history.
It’s mind-blowing to acknowledge Ocarina’s age; it remains a captivating experience today, with minor interface quirks of the past. The game is frequently regarded as the quintessential Zelda title among a lineage adorned with remarkable entries. Its epic scale and narrative depth are unmatched.
Even in the current gaming landscape, Ocarina Of Time continues to engage audiences, whether through streams showcasing speedruns or competitive challenges. The lasting impact of a game this old still being so pertinent is a testament to its design and storytelling. While some sections, like Jabu-Jabu’s Belly, may frustrate, the majority of Ocarina Of Time resonates profoundly, making it a must-play for gamers of all generations.
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