Best N64 Games Ranked: 25 Classics That Still Hold Up Today

Finding the best N64 games isn’t as simple as looking at old review scores or childhood memories. Some Nintendo 64 classics remain just as enjoyable today, while others feel outdated once the nostalgia wears off. If you’re playing through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, dusting off an original console, or building a retro game collection, you probably don’t want to spend hours on games that haven’t aged well.

That’s exactly why this list focuses on more than nostalgia.

I’ve revisited these games with a modern perspective, paying close attention to how they actually play today. Rather than ranking them solely because they’re iconic, I considered factors like gameplay quality, replay value, innovation, historical influence, accessibility for new players, and whether each game still feels rewarding decades after its original release.

Some games earned their place because they changed the industry forever. Others made the list because they’re still genuinely fun to pick up in 2026, regardless of when you first played them.

Whether you’re returning to childhood favorites or experiencing the Nintendo 64 for the first time, this guide will help you find the games that are still worth your time.

Ranking Criteria	Weight
Gameplay Today	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Replay Value	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Innovation	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Historical Influence	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Accessibility for New Players	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Every game in this ranking was evaluated using these five criteria rather than nostalgia alone.

Where Can You Play Nintendo 64 Games Today?

You don’t need original Nintendo 64 hardware to enjoy these classics today. Many of the best N64 games are available through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack (link this anchor to Nintendo’s official page), although original hardware and cartridges remain popular among collectors.

Modern digital game downloads and cloud services also rely on many of the technologies that made the web move quicker, including faster internet protocols, CDNs, and browser optimization.

If you want the most authentic experience, original hardware still delivers that classic feel longtime fans remember. However, Nintendo Switch Online makes it much easier for new players to discover these timeless games on modern displays without hunting down expensive cartridges.

Quick Picks: Best Nintendo 64 Games by Play Style

If you’re looking for…	Play this
Best overall game	The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Best platformer	Super Mario 64
Best multiplayer game	Mario Kart 64
Best FPS	GoldenEye 007
Best RPG	Paper Mario
Best strategy game	Ogre Battle 64
Best racing game	F-Zero X
Best party game	Mario Party 2
Best Rare game	Banjo-Kazooie
Most underrated	WinBack: Covert Operations
Best for beginners	Super Mario 64
Best for collectors	Conker’s Bad Fur Day

If you want the most authentic experience, original hardware still delivers that classic feel that longtime fans remember. However, Nintendo Switch Online makes it much easier for new players to discover these timeless games on modern displays without hunting down old cartridges.

25. Wave Race 64

Genre: Racing Players: 1–2

When Nintendo launched the N64, few people expected a jet ski racing game to become one of the console’s standout titles. However, Wave Race 64 proved that simple ideas could deliver an unforgettable experience.

The game’s biggest strength is its realistic water physics, since every wave changes how your watercraft handles and makes each race feel different. Even today, the controls remain responsive and satisfying, which is impressive for a game released back in 1996.

The courses are easy to learn but difficult to master. As the weather changes during races, the water becomes rougher, forcing you to constantly adjust your strategy. This small detail adds a layer of depth that many modern racing games still struggle to match. Although later entries introduced better graphics, many fans believe the original still offers the best gameplay overall.

Why it still holds up

Excellent water physics
Smooth controls
Short races that are easy to replay
Still one of Nintendo’s most unique racing games

Best for: Players looking for a fast and rewarding arcade racer.

24. Cruis’n USA

Genre: Arcade Racing Players: 1–2

If you enjoy simple arcade racing games, Cruis’n USA is still worth trying today. Instead of realistic driving, the game focuses on speed, colorful tracks, and quick races across famous American locations.

The handling is intentionally easy, making it accessible for beginners who just want to jump in, pick a car, and start racing within seconds. While it lacks the depth of later racing games, its straightforward design is genuinely part of its charm.

Today’s players may notice outdated graphics and repetitive gameplay. Still, the game captures the spirit of 1990s arcade racing better than most titles from that era.

Why it still holds up

Easy to learn
Classic arcade feeling
Fun for short play sessions

Best for: Casual players who enjoy old-school arcade racers.

23. Pokémon Stadium

Genre: Strategy / Battle Players: 1–4

Unlike the Game Boy Pokémon games, Pokémon Stadium focuses almost entirely on battles. It brings Pokémon into full 3D for the first time, allowing players to watch their favorite creatures battle it out in large stadiums.

The game becomes even better if you own the original Pokémon Red, Blue, or Yellow cartridges. Using the Nintendo 64 Transfer Pak, you can import your trained Pokémon directly from your Game Boy games, letting you compete with a team you actually built yourself. This feature made Pokémon Stadium feel like a natural extension of the original Pokémon adventures.

Even without the Transfer Pak, Pokémon Stadium offers plenty of entertainment. The Gym Leader Castle provides a fun challenge, while the famous mini-games remain some of the best multiplayer experiences on the Nintendo 64. Many players still return to Pokémon Stadium today mainly for these mini-games, which are easy to understand, surprisingly competitive, and perfect for family game nights.

Why it still holds up

Fantastic multiplayer mini-games
Classic Pokémon battles
Transfer Pak support adds extra value
Great local party game

Best for: Pokémon fans and families looking for multiplayer fun.

22. 1080° Snowboarding

Genre: Sports Players: 1–2

Before realistic snowboarding games became common, 1080° Snowboarding showed what was possible on home consoles.

The game mixes fast downhill racing with technical tricks, and winning requires more than just speed since landing tricks correctly is just as important. As a result, mastering the controls feels genuinely rewarding rather than repetitive.

The courses are varied and challenging, while the soundtrack gives the game plenty of energy without becoming distracting. Although modern snowboarding games offer larger mountains and better graphics, 1080° Snowboarding remains one of the strongest sports games on the Nintendo 64.

Why it still holds up

Challenging gameplay
Responsive controls
Excellent sense of speed
Memorable soundtrack

Best for: Players who enjoy skill-based sports games.

21. Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards

Genre: Platformer Players: 1

Most Kirby games are known for being beginner-friendly, and Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards is no exception. However, this entry introduced one of the series’ most creative mechanics yet.

Instead of copying only one enemy ability, Kirby can combine two powers to create entirely new attacks. Mixing fire with a sword creates a flaming blade, while combining electricity and a cutter produces completely different results. Experimenting with these combinations is one of the game’s biggest strengths and keeps every level feeling fresh.

The colorful worlds, cheerful soundtrack, and approachable difficulty make Kirby 64 an excellent choice for younger players. At the same time, experienced fans will enjoy discovering every hidden ability and collectible. While it is shorter than many other games on this list, it delivers a polished and consistently enjoyable adventure from start to finish.

Why it still holds up

Creative ability combinations
Bright and colorful graphics
Relaxing gameplay
Great introduction to the Kirby series

Best for: Beginners, younger players, and anyone looking for a relaxing platformer.

20. WinBack: Covert Operations

Genre: Third-Person Shooter / Tactical Action Players: 1–4

Before games like Metal Gear Solid 2, Gears of War, and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon made cover-based shooting popular, WinBack: Covert Operations quietly introduced many of those same ideas on the Nintendo 64.

Instead of running through every level with guns blazing, you must use cover, peek around corners, and plan your attacks carefully. Enemies react quickly, so rushing into battle usually ends badly, and this slower pace makes every encounter feel more rewarding.

The campaign follows a special forces team trying to stop a terrorist organization from launching a devastating weapon. While the story is simple, the gameplay remains surprisingly modern by today’s standards. WinBack never became as famous as GoldenEye or Perfect Dark, but many players now consider it one of the N64’s most underrated games.

Why it still holds up

Innovative cover system
Tactical gameplay
Challenging missions
One of the most overlooked shooters on the console

Best for: Players who enjoy stealth, strategy, and slower-paced action games.

19. Mario Party 2

Genre: Party Players: 1–4

If someone asks for the best multiplayer N64 games, Mario Party 2 almost always deserves a place on the list.

Nintendo improved nearly every part of the original game for this sequel. The mini-games are more balanced, the boards are more creative, and the painful joystick-spinning challenges that damaged controllers—and sometimes hands—are thankfully gone.

Every match feels different because random events can completely change the outcome, creating the kind of unforgettable moments that have made Mario Party famous for decades. A player in last place can suddenly steal stars, while the leader can lose everything in a single unlucky turn. This unpredictability is exactly what makes Mario Party 2 so entertaining, even today, and it remains one of the best local multiplayer games ever made.

Why it still holds up

Fantastic party game
Excellent variety of mini-games
Great replay value
Easy for players of all skill levels

Best for: Family gatherings, parties, and four-player game nights.

18. Blast Corps

Genre: Action / Puzzle Players: 1

Very few games let you destroy almost everything in your path, and Blast Corps does exactly that, making it one of the Nintendo 64’s most original experiences.

Your mission is simple: a truck carrying unstable nuclear missiles cannot stop moving, and before it reaches each area, you must clear every building, wall, and obstacle blocking its route.

Different vehicles completely change how you solve each level, since some are fast while others rely on raw power. Learning when to use each one creates a satisfying mix of action and puzzle solving. Rare developed many classic N64 games, and Blast Corps remains one of its most creative and memorable projects.

Why it still holds up

Unique gameplay
Destructible environments
Creative level design
High replay value

Best for: Players looking for something completely different.

17. Pokémon Snap

Genre: On-Rails Photography Players: 1

Most Pokémon games focus on catching and battling creatures. Pokémon Snap takes a completely different approach by turning the formula on its head.

Instead of fighting Pokémon, you travel across Pokémon Island while taking photographs of creatures in their natural habitats. Better pictures earn higher scores, but getting the perfect shot often requires solving small environmental puzzles along the way.

You can throw food, play music, or trigger hidden events to make Pokémon react in unique ways, and discovering these secrets is one of the game’s biggest strengths. Although the adventure is short, Pokémon Snap remains relaxing, creative, and unlike anything else on the Nintendo 64.

Why it still holds up

Unique concept
Relaxing gameplay
Hidden secrets reward exploration
Great for younger players

Best for: Pokémon fans and players who enjoy exploration over combat.

16. Paper Mario

Genre: Role-Playing Game (RPG) Players: 1

Role-playing games were rare on the Nintendo 64, but Paper Mario proved the console could deliver a fantastic RPG experience all the same.

The game’s paper-inspired art style still looks charming today. Unlike many early 3D games that now appear outdated, Paper Mario’s colorful visuals have aged beautifully over time.

Combat is easy to learn but remains engaging thanks to Action Commands, where pressing buttons at the right moment increases attack power or reduces incoming damage. This makes every battle interactive instead of repetitive. The writing is another highlight, since Mario, Bowser, and the supporting characters are full of personality, and the dialogue is packed with humor from beginning to end. Even after more than twenty years, Paper Mario remains one of Nintendo’s finest role-playing games.

Why it still holds up

Timeless visual style
Fun turn-based combat
Funny writing
Memorable characters

Best for: RPG fans and players who enjoy story-driven adventures.

15. F-Zero X

Genre: Futuristic Racing Players: 1–4

When it comes to pure speed, few games on the Nintendo 64 can match F-Zero X. Released in 1998, this futuristic racer pushed the console to its limits by delivering smooth gameplay at 60 frames per second, and even today, that performance still feels impressive.

Unlike Mario Kart 64, F-Zero X focuses entirely on skill. There are no items to slow down your opponents or help you catch up, so every victory depends on your ability to master sharp turns, manage your boost meter, and survive high-speed races with up to 30 vehicles on the track at once.

Each machine handles differently, giving players a reason to experiment with different pilots and racing styles. As your skills improve, the higher difficulty levels provide an exciting challenge that keeps the game feeling fresh long after your first playthrough.

Why it still holds up

Extremely fast gameplay
Smooth 60 FPS performance
Deep racing mechanics
High replay value

Best for: Players who enjoy fast-paced racing games that reward skill over luck.

14. Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber

Genre: Tactical RPG Players: 1

The Nintendo 64 did not have many role-playing games, but Ogre Battle 64 remains one of the finest strategy RPGs ever made for any console.

Instead of controlling one hero, you lead multiple squads across large battlefields, and every decision matters, from unit placement to character progression. The game also features branching story paths, meaning your choices can genuinely change how the adventure unfolds.

Its political story feels more mature than most Nintendo games from the era. Themes of war, loyalty, and leadership give the campaign surprising depth, while the strategic gameplay rewards careful planning rather than quick reflexes. Although it never reached the popularity of Final Fantasy or Fire Emblem, Ogre Battle 64 has earned a loyal fan base over the years.

Why it still holds up

Deep tactical gameplay
Multiple story paths
Excellent replay value
One of the N64’s best RPGs

Best for: Strategy fans who enjoy long, thoughtful adventures.

13. Star Wars: Rogue Squadron

Genre: Action / Flight Combat Players: 1

If you have ever dreamed of piloting an X-Wing through the Star Wars universe, Star Wars: Rogue Squadron delivers that experience better than almost any game of its generation.

Players complete missions across famous locations while flying iconic ships from the Star Wars films. Objectives vary from escort missions to large-scale space battles, keeping the campaign interesting from start to finish.

The controls are easy to learn, but mastering each mission requires precision and practice. Unlockable ships and hidden medals also encourage multiple playthroughs, and even decades later, Rogue Squadron remains one of the strongest Star Wars games ever released.

Why it still holds up

Exciting flight combat
Faithful Star Wars atmosphere
Varied mission design
Excellent replay value

Best for: Star Wars fans and players who enjoy arcade flight games.

12. Donkey Kong 64

Genre: 3D Platformer Players: 1–4

Developed by Rare, Donkey Kong 64 is one of the biggest platforming adventures on the Nintendo 64. The game features five playable Kongs, each with unique abilities that unlock new areas and collectibles across the map.

Its worlds are packed with puzzles, mini-games, and hidden secrets, and players can spend dozens of hours exploring every level while collecting Golden Bananas, Banana Medals, blueprints, and many other items.

Some players feel the game includes too many collectibles, which can make later stages feel repetitive. However, fans who enjoy exploration and completion challenges often consider this one of Rare’s most ambitious games, and the multiplayer modes also provide a fun break from the lengthy single-player adventure.

Why it still holds up

Huge worlds to explore
Five unique playable characters
Massive amount of content
Great soundtrack

Best for: Completionists and fans of large 3D platformers.

11. Star Fox 64

Genre: Rail Shooter Players: 1

Few Nintendo 64 games are as replayable as Star Fox 64. Instead of following a single path, the game offers multiple routes, hidden missions, and different endings depending on your performance.

The controls remain responsive, allowing players to focus on fast aerial combat while dodging enemy fire and protecting teammates. Every mission introduces new challenges, from massive space battles to dramatic boss fights that test everything you’ve learned.

The voice acting also deserves praise, with quotes like “Do a barrel roll!” becoming some of the most recognizable lines in gaming history. Despite lasting only a few hours, Star Fox 64 encourages players to replay missions repeatedly to unlock every route and achieve higher scores, and its influence can still be seen in many modern arcade shooters.

Why it still holds up

Outstanding replay value
Multiple branching paths
Excellent boss battles
Memorable soundtrack and voice acting

Best for: Players who enjoy fast action and replayable arcade experiences.

10. Perfect Dark

Genre: First-Person Shooter Players: 1–4

Many people remember GoldenEye 007 as the Nintendo 64’s greatest shooter. However, Perfect Dark took everything that made GoldenEye special and improved it even further.

Developed by Rare, the game introduced smarter enemy AI, more creative weapons, larger missions, and a deeper story. Instead of simply reaching the end of each level, you complete different objectives depending on the difficulty setting, and higher difficulties add entirely new mission goals instead of just making enemies tougher. This encourages multiple playthroughs and rewards players who want an extra challenge.

The multiplayer mode was years ahead of its time. Players could customize matches, choose dozens of weapons, and even add computer-controlled opponents called Simulants. Today, AI bots are common in multiplayer games, but Perfect Dark offered this feature long before it became an industry standard.

The game also pushed the Nintendo 64 hardware to its limits. To experience the full single-player campaign, players needed the Nintendo 64 Expansion Pak, and without it, only a limited version of the game was available. Although the frame rate can feel inconsistent on original hardware, the gameplay remains enjoyable, and if you enjoy classic shooters with surprising depth, Perfect Dark is still well worth playing today.

Why it still holds up

Excellent campaign with multiple objectives
Deep multiplayer customization
AI-controlled Simulants add replay value
Creative weapon designs
One of Rare’s greatest achievements

Best for: Players who want a deeper first-person shooter than GoldenEye 007.

9. Super Smash Bros.

Genre: Fighting Players: 1–4

Today, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate features more than 80 playable fighters. However, every game in the series began with the original Super Smash Bros. on the Nintendo 64.

The idea was simple but revolutionary: instead of health bars, players damage opponents until they can launch them off the stage. The controls are easy to learn, yet mastering movement, timing, and recovery takes real practice.

The original roster may seem small by modern standards, but it includes many of Nintendo’s biggest icons, including Mario, Link, Kirby, Pikachu, Samus, Fox, and Donkey Kong, and each fighter feels genuinely unique. Even after many sequels, the first Smash Bros. remains fun because of its fast matches and balanced gameplay. Local multiplayer is where the game truly shines, especially with four players competing on classic stages, and it also introduced a crossover concept that would later become one of Nintendo’s most successful franchises.

Why it still holds up

Fast and accessible gameplay
Memorable Nintendo characters
Excellent local multiplayer
Huge replay value
Historic first entry in the series

Best for: Players looking for competitive multiplayer with friends.

8. GoldenEye 007

Genre: First-Person Shooter Players: 1–4

Before online multiplayer became common, friends gathered around one television to play GoldenEye 007. Few games defined split-screen gaming quite like this classic shooter.

Based on the James Bond film, GoldenEye combines stealth, action, and exploration across memorable missions. Players sneak through military bases, rescue hostages, disable security systems, and complete objectives instead of simply eliminating every enemy in sight.

The campaign introduced ideas that influenced many shooters released over the next decade, and its influence can still be seen in modern first-person shooters today. Meanwhile, the multiplayer mode became legendary in its own right. While Rare no longer owns the James Bond license, GoldenEye 007 remains one of the most important console shooters ever released. Whether you played License to Kill, Paintball Mode, or No Oddjob house rules, every group created its own unforgettable memories. Although the aiming controls feel outdated compared to modern FPS games, the level design and mission variety still make GoldenEye worth revisiting.

Why it still holds up

Legendary split-screen multiplayer
Excellent mission design
Strong replay value
Influenced console FPS games for years
One of the N64’s defining experiences

Best for: Fans of classic first-person shooters and local multiplayer.

7. Diddy Kong Racing

Genre: Racing Players: 1–4

At first glance, Diddy Kong Racing looks similar to Mario Kart 64. However, the two games actually offer very different experiences once you dig in.

Instead of focusing only on individual races, Diddy Kong Racing includes a full adventure mode with boss battles, exploration, and unlockable challenges. This gives players a clear sense of progression that many kart racers still lack today.

Another standout feature is its three vehicle types, since players race using karts, hovercraft, and airplanes, with each vehicle handling differently. Learning when to use each one keeps the gameplay fresh throughout the adventure. The racing also rewards skill more than luck, and while power-ups are useful, good driving usually decides the winner. As a result, many fans consider Diddy Kong Racing the better single-player experience, while Mario Kart 64 remains the stronger party game.

Why it still holds up

Fantastic adventure mode
Three unique vehicle types
Excellent boss races
Skill-based racing
High replay value

Best for: Players who want more than traditional kart racing.

6. Mario Kart 64

Genre: Kart Racing Players: 1–4

Few multiplayer games have brought people together like Mario Kart 64. More than twenty-five years after its release, it remains one of the most enjoyable party games ever made.

The racing mechanics are easy enough for beginners to understand within minutes. At the same time, experienced players can master shortcuts, drifting techniques, and item strategies to gain a real advantage over the competition.

The track selection includes some of the most iconic courses in the series, including Rainbow Road, Royal Raceway, Yoshi Valley, and Bowser’s Castle, and many of these tracks have returned in later Mario Kart games because of their lasting popularity. While Grand Prix mode is fun, Battle Mode is where Mario Kart 64 truly stands out. Block Fort, Skyscraper, and Double Deck remain some of the most iconic battle arenas in the entire series, and maps like Block Fort have become legendary among longtime Nintendo fans. Although newer Mario Kart games offer more content and better graphics, Mario Kart 64 captures a simple charm that keeps players coming back year after year.

Why it still holds up

Timeless local multiplayer
Iconic tracks
Easy to learn, difficult to master
Outstanding Battle Mode
One of Nintendo’s best party games

Best for: Families, casual players, and anyone looking for one of the greatest multiplayer games on the Nintendo 64.

5. Banjo-Kazooie

Genre: 3D Platformer Players: 1

If there is one game that captures everything people love about Rare on the Nintendo 64, it is Banjo-Kazooie. Released in 1998, this colorful adventure combines creative level design, memorable characters, and rewarding exploration into one unforgettable package.

You play as Banjo, a kind-hearted bear, and Kazooie, his quick-witted bird companion, as they set out to rescue Banjo’s sister from the evil witch Gruntilda. Along the way, you collect Jiggies, musical notes, Jinjos, and other items that unlock new areas and abilities.

Unlike many collectathon platformers, Banjo-Kazooie rarely feels overwhelming. Every collectible has a purpose, and each world introduces fresh ideas instead of repeating the same challenges over and over. The game’s humor also helps it stand out, since characters are full of personality and the dialogue remains entertaining years later. The soundtrack by Grant Kirkhope is another highlight, with many fans still considering it one of the greatest video game soundtracks ever composed—each area features memorable music that perfectly matches its theme. Many games have tried to recreate Banjo-Kazooie’s magic, but very few have matched its balance of exploration, platforming, and charm.

Why it still holds up

Outstanding level design
Charming characters and humor
Fantastic soundtrack
Rewarding exploration
One of the greatest collectathon games ever made

Best for: Players who enjoy exploration, platforming, and classic Rare games.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

Genre: Action Adventure Players: 1

Few Nintendo games are as bold or unforgettable as The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask.

Instead of repeating Ocarina of Time’s formula, Nintendo created something entirely different. The story takes place in the mysterious world of Termina, where the moon is about to crash into the planet in just three days’ time.

At first, the time limit may seem stressful, but it quickly becomes one of the game’s greatest strengths. Every character follows a daily schedule, creating a world that feels genuinely alive, and helping people with their personal problems becomes just as important as completing dungeons. Masks are another major feature, since each one grants new abilities, while special transformation masks let Link become a Deku Scrub, Goron, or Zora. These forms completely change how you explore the world and solve puzzles.

Majora’s Mask also explores themes rarely seen in Nintendo games, including grief, fear, friendship, and hope. Its darker atmosphere continues to attract new players more than two decades after its release.

Why it still holds up

Deep emotional story
Creative mask system
Memorable side quests
One of gaming’s most unique worlds
Outstanding dungeon design

Best for: Players looking for a deeper and more emotional adventure.

3. Conker’s Bad Fur Day

Genre: 3D Platformer / Action Adventure Players: 1–4

Unlike most Nintendo 64 platformers, Conker’s Bad Fur Day wasn’t made for children. Instead of following the family-friendly style of most Nintendo games, it leans into mature comedy, clever movie parodies, and satirical humor, and its writing gives the game a unique identity that still stands out among Nintendo 64 exclusives.

Rare created a game filled with adult humor, movie parodies, and memorable characters while still delivering excellent platforming and creative gameplay throughout. You play as Conker, a sarcastic squirrel trying to find his way home after a night of heavy drinking. What starts as a simple journey quickly turns into a bizarre adventure filled with talking objects, strange boss fights, and unexpected twists, and every level introduces new gameplay ideas so the experience rarely feels repetitive.

Beyond the humor, Conker’s Bad Fur Day is one of the most technically impressive games on the Nintendo 64. Rare pushed the hardware to its limits with advanced lighting, expressive character animations, and cinematic cutscenes, and at the time, very few console games offered this level of presentation. The multiplayer modes also offer several fun mini-games that add even more replay value. While the original version can suffer from occasional frame-rate drops, it remains one of Rare’s most ambitious and memorable Nintendo 64 games. If you’re looking for something completely different from Mario or Banjo-Kazooie, Conker’s Bad Fur Day is an easy recommendation.

Why it still holds up

Unique adult humor and memorable writing
Creative level design with constant gameplay variety
Excellent visuals for the Nintendo 64
Fun multiplayer game modes
One of Rare’s most ambitious games

Best for: Players looking for a platformer with mature humor, creative gameplay, and unforgettable characters.

2. Super Mario 64

Genre: 3D Platformer Players: 1

It is impossible to discuss the history of video games without mentioning Super Mario 64.

When Nintendo released the game in 1996, it completely changed how 3D platformers worked. Its analog movement, open levels, and Lakitu camera system became the foundation for countless 3D games that followed.

Even today, Mario controls with incredible precision. Running, jumping, diving, and wall-kicking all feel natural, allowing players to experiment with different ways to reach every Power Star. The castle acts as a central hub, leading to imaginative worlds filled with secrets, puzzles, and creative platforming challenges, and each course encourages exploration instead of forcing players down a single path.

Although the camera occasionally shows its age, the core gameplay remains outstanding, and many modern platformers still borrow ideas that Super Mario 64 introduced nearly thirty years ago. Its influence can be seen in games such as Super Mario Odyssey, A Hat in Time, and many other 3D adventures.

Why it still holds up

Revolutionary level design
Precise movement
Creative objectives
Endless replay value
One of the most influential games ever made

Best for: Anyone interested in gaming history or outstanding platformers.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

Genre: Action Adventure Players: 1

More than twenty-five years after its release, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remains the greatest Nintendo 64 game ever made. It regularly appears near the top of “greatest video games of all time” lists thanks to its timeless design, unforgettable dungeons, and lasting influence on the entire action-adventure genre.

The game follows Link as he travels between childhood and adulthood to stop Ganondorf from conquering Hyrule. Along the way, players explore forests, deserts, volcanoes, temples, and hidden villages, each filled with memorable characters and clever puzzles that reward curiosity.

Ocarina of Time introduced mechanics that became standard across the gaming industry. Its Z-targeting system completely changed how players fought enemies in 3D games, and this simple but brilliant feature became the blueprint for combat systems used in many action-adventure games that followed. Features like Z-targeting, context-sensitive actions, and cinematic boss battles went on to influence hundreds of games.

What truly sets Ocarina of Time apart is its balance. Combat, exploration, puzzle-solving, storytelling, music, and dungeon design all work together to create an unforgettable adventure, and every major dungeon introduces new ideas without becoming repetitive. Meanwhile, the soundtrack remains one of the most recognizable in gaming history. Even if newer Zelda games offer larger worlds, Ocarina of Time’s pacing remains exceptional every location feels meaningful, and every victory feels earned.

Why it still holds up

Timeless adventure
Outstanding dungeon design
Revolutionary gameplay systems
Memorable soundtrack
One of the highest-rated games ever released

Best for: Every Nintendo fan and anyone exploring the greatest video games ever made.

Games That Almost Made the List

The Nintendo 64 library may be smaller than other classic consoles, but it still includes many fantastic games that narrowly missed our rankings. If you finish the titles above, these are well worth adding to your collection.

Conker’s Bad Fur Day
Pokémon Stadium 2
Sin & Punishment
Wave Race 64
Blast Corps
Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards
1080° Snowboarding
Ogre Battle 64
WinBack: Covert Operations
Pokémon Snap

Best Nintendo 64 Games for Beginners

If you’re completely new to the Nintendo 64, these games offer the easiest starting point:

Game	Why it’s beginner friendly
Super Mario 64	Simple controls and gradual learning curve
Mario Kart 64	Easy to pick up with excellent multiplayer
Kirby 64	Relaxed difficulty and forgiving gameplay
Paper Mario	Beginner-friendly RPG mechanics
Pokémon Snap	Stress-free and highly accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best N64 game of all time?

Most players and critics consider The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time the best Nintendo 64 game because of its lasting influence, memorable story, and innovative gameplay. However, games like Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie are also strong contenders for the top spot.

What are the best multiplayer N64 games?

Some of the best multiplayer Nintendo 64 games include:

Mario Kart 64
GoldenEye 007
Perfect Dark
Super Smash Bros.
Mario Party 2
Pokémon Stadium
Diddy Kong Racing

These games are still excellent choices for local multiplayer sessions today.

Can you play N64 games on Nintendo Switch?

Yes. Nintendo offers a growing collection of Nintendo 64 games through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, and the available library includes many of the console’s biggest classics.

Which N64 games have aged the best?

The games that have aged particularly well include:

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Super Mario 64
Banjo-Kazooie
Paper Mario
Star Fox 64
Mario Kart 64

Their gameplay remains enjoyable even by today’s standards.

Which N64 game should beginners play first?

If you’re new to the console, start with Super Mario 64 or The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Both games showcase what made the Nintendo 64 so special and are still easy to enjoy today.

Nintendo 64 Games That Changed the Industry

Several games on this list introduced mechanics that are now considered standard across modern gaming.

Game	Lasting Influence
Super Mario 64	Defined modern 3D platforming
Ocarina of Time	Introduced Z-targeting
GoldenEye 007	Popularized console FPS multiplayer
Perfect Dark	Early AI bots in multiplayer
Mario Kart 64	Helped define party racing
Star Fox 64	Popularized force feedback with the Rumble Pak

Why You Can Trust This Ranking

This list wasn’t created using Metacritic scores alone or by repeating older “best games” articles.

Each game was evaluated based on:

How well it plays today
Historical importance
Replay value
Multiplayer longevity
Accessibility for new players
Influence on future games

Games that rely mainly on nostalgia were ranked lower than titles that still offer a rewarding experience for modern players.

After finishing the Nintendo 64 library, the next console worth exploring is the Wii. Here’s our list of the best Wii games.

Final Thoughts

Revisiting the Nintendo 64 today is a reminder that great game design doesn’t become obsolete. While some titles inevitably show their age through awkward cameras, lower frame rates, or dated visuals, the best games on this list remain enjoyable because their core gameplay is still strong.

Putting this ranking together also reinforced something I’ve found whenever I return to retro games: the titles that truly last aren’t always the ones with the biggest technical achievements. They’re the games that still make you want to play “just one more level,” challenge yourself to improve, or invite friends over for another multiplayer session. That’s why games like Ocarina of Time, Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, Banjo-Kazooie, and GoldenEye 007 continue to be recommended decades after release—they’re built on timeless gameplay rather than nostalgia alone.

If you’re completely new to the Nintendo 64, start with Super Mario 64 or The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. If you’d also like to explore Nintendo’s handheld classics, our guide to the best GBA games covers the Game Boy Advance titles that remain just as enjoyable today.

Also If you’re looking for multiplayer, Mario Kart 64, Perfect Dark, and Mario Party 2 are still fantastic choices. And if you’ve already played the obvious classics, don’t overlook underrated gems like WinBack: Covert Operations, Blast Corps, or Ogre Battle 64, which continue to reward players willing to dig a little deeper into the console’s library.

The Nintendo 64 may not have the largest game library, but its best games helped define entire genres and influenced countless titles that followed. If you’re exploring classics beyond Nintendo, our guide to the best Dreamcast games highlights Sega’s greatest titles that still hold up today, from Shenmue and Jet Set Radio to Soulcalibur and Crazy Taxi.

Nearly three decades later, that’s still the strongest reason to play them, they aren’t just important pieces of gaming history; they’re genuinely excellent games that continue to earn their place among the greatest video games ever made.