Best Nintendo 64 Games That Still Shine Across Generations
Discover which Nintendo 64 games remain beloved today. From Mario 64 to GoldenEye, learn why these classic N64 titles are still played and loved worldwide. Photo by: Engadget
Why the Nintendo 64 Matters Still
The Nintendo 64 (N64) was released in the mid-1990s and changed how people saw video games. It brought 3D worlds, analog stick controls, and unforgettable music and moments.
Classic titles from that era are still talked about on Reddit, Instagram, and even in modern streaming. Because those games combined innovation with creativity, many feel fresh even today.
The N64 library is not huge compared to modern libraries, but many of its games are legendary that still inspire all the new developers and players alike.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Ocarina of Time is often called one of the best video games that was ever made. Players love how it has big world, memorable music, and clever dungeons.
It introduced lock-on targeting which helped make 3D combat feel very realistic and natural. Even after more than 25 years, it remains on many “best games of all time” lists.
Today’s players still enjoy it because its story is strong, exploration is rewarding, and secrets are everywhere.
Super Mario 64
Super Mario 64 was one of the first games to do 3D platforming well. It gave players the freedom to explore a castle, jump, run, collect stars, and unlock surprises.
Even though its graphics are old by now, its level design and control are still praised. Players on Twitch or YouTube often replay it, speedrun it, or show glitches because it's still fun. The nostalgia is strong, but the gameplay also holds up.
GoldenEye 007
GoldenEye 007 was groundbreaking for console first-person shooters. It made multiplayer deathmatches in living rooms popular, and its single-player missions are still fondly remembered.
Even today, people compare modern shooters to the way GoldenEye managed mission variety, level design, and stealth. It also helped define how console shooters could feel.
That legacy keeps the game alive among fans who grew up with it, and new players discovering older games.
Star Fox 64
Star Fox 64 (also known as Lylat Wars in some places) is beloved for its intense aerial action, memorable voice acting, and branching mission paths that change what you face.
It was one of the first N64 games to support the Rumble Pak accessory—meaning your controller vibrated during play, which made action feel more real. People still like it today because it mixes arcade flying with storytelling in a charming way.
Diddy Kong Racing
Diddy Kong Racing mixes racing, adventure, and mini-games in a way few N64 games did. It gives you multiple vehicle types (cars, planes, hovercraft), a large world, and fun characters.
The graphics were impressive back then, and the music is very catchy. Players still love it because it is easy to pick up, but also offers changes, diversity and challenge. It holds up for families, speedrunners, and casual players alike.
Why These Games Are Still Loved
All of these games share something important: they combine strong depth, design, fun gameplay, memorable worlds, and creative ideas that touched many lives.
They didn’t overload with graphics; instead they focused on what makes games fun. Many modern games still borrow mechanics or design ideas from these classics.
Because they’re still playable (via remasters or emulators) and still discussed (in forums, YouTube, Reddit), they remain evergreen. If you want to understand gaming history, or just enjoy solid, well-made games, N64 classics are a great place to start.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never played an N64 game, these titles are great entry points. If you played them long ago, revisiting them often shows why people still love them.
They remind us that good design, charm, and fun matter as much as fancy graphics. Whatever your gaming taste action, racing, adventure there’s likely an N64 game in this list you’ll enjoy.