The Nintendo 64 (N64) is one of the most loved gaming consoles of all time. Even today, many gamers enjoy playing the best N64 games for their fun gameplay, great stories, and memorable characters. Whether you want to play the best N64 games on Switch, relive classics, or find the best N64 games to emulate, this list has you covered.
In this article, we will rank the best N64 games of all time based on popularity, gameplay, and nostalgia. Let’s dive in!
Why the Nintendo 64 is Still Loved Today
The N64 changed gaming with its 3D graphics and iconic controller. Many of the best N64 games all time are still played today because of their fun and creative gameplay. Whether you like adventure, racing, or fighting games, the N64 has something for everyone.
Now, let’s look at the best N64 games that you should try!
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- Considered one of the greatest games ever made
- Amazing story, puzzles, and open-world exploration
- Time-travel mechanics make gameplay unique
If you’re looking for the best N64 games of all time, this is a must-play. It set the standard for adventure games and is still loved today. You can also play it as one of the best N64 games on Switch with the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack.
2. Super Mario 64
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- First 3D Mario game, revolutionizing platformers
- Fun levels, creative missions, and smooth controls
- Still holds up as one of the best N64 games all time
Super Mario 64 is a classic that every gamer should try. It’s also available as one of the best N64 games on Switch.
3. GoldenEye 007
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- One of the best first-person shooters on N64
- Great multiplayer mode for friends
- Based on the James Bond movie
GoldenEye 007 is a must-play for fans of the best N64 games of all time. While it’s not officially on Switch, it’s one of the best N64 games to emulate.
4. Mario Kart 64
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- Fun racing game with great tracks
- Awesome multiplayer for up to 4 players
- Still one of the best Mario Kart games ever
Mario Kart 64 is perfect for parties and is available as one of the best N64 games on Switch.
5. Banjo-Kazooie
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- Fun 3D platformer with humor and great levels
- Collectathon gameplay with lots of secrets
- A fan favorite among the best N64 games all time
Banjo-Kazooie is a charming game that’s still fun today. You can play it on Switch as part of the best N64 games on Switch.
6. Star Fox 64
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- Exciting space shooter with great voice acting
- Different paths and endings add replay value
- One of the best N64 games to emulate if you can’t find a copy
Star Fox 64 is a fast-paced game that’s still exciting to play.
7. Perfect Dark
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- Improved version of GoldenEye’s gameplay
- Great single-player and multiplayer modes
- A must-play for fans of the best N64 games of all time
Perfect Dark is a sci-fi shooter that still holds up well.
8. Donkey Kong 64
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- Huge 3D world with lots to explore
- Play as different Kongs with unique abilities
- One of the best N64 games all time for adventure fans
Donkey Kong 64 is a fun collectathon game with great music and levels.
9. Super Smash Bros.
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- The first game in the famous fighting series
- Fun multiplayer battles with Nintendo characters
- A classic among the best N64 games of all time
Super Smash Bros. is great for competitive and casual players.
10. Pokémon Stadium
Why It’s One of the Best N64 Games:
- Brings Pokémon battles to 3D
- Fun mini-games for multiplayer
- A nostalgic pick for the best N64 games all time
Pokémon Stadium is perfect for fans of the series.
Honorable Mentions
Some other best N64 games worth playing:
- Paper Mario – Great RPG with a unique art style
- Majora’s Mask – Darker Zelda game with a time-loop mechanic
- Diddy Kong Racing – Fun racing game with adventure elements
- Mario Party 2 – Best party game on N64
Best N64 Games on Switch
If you want to play the best N64 games on Switch, check out the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. It includes:
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
- Super Mario 64
- Mario Kart 64
- Star Fox 64
- And more!
Best N64 Games to Emulate
If you don’t have an N64, you can still play the best N64 games to emulate on PC or other devices. Some great choices:
- GoldenEye 007
- Perfect Dark
- Banjo-Kazooie
- Conker’s Bad Fur Day
FAQs About the Best N64 Games
What is the #1 best N64 game?
Many consider The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time the best N64 game ever.
Can I play N64 games on Switch?
Yes! The Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack offers many best N64 games on Switch.
What are the best N64 games for multiplayer?
- Mario Kart 64
- GoldenEye 007
- Super Smash Bros.
- Mario Party 2
Are N64 games worth playing today?
Absolutely! Many best N64 games all time still hold up well.
Conclusion
The Nintendo 64 has some of the best N64 games of all time. Whether you want to play them on original hardware, Switch, or through emulation, these classics are still fun today. From Zelda to Mario Kart, there’s something for everyone in the best N64 games list.
What’s your favorite N64 game? Let us know in the comments!
