Nintendo has all but confirmed that the Virtual Console brand is no more, with whatever yet still unknown plans for Nintendo Online expected to serve as its replacement for the new generation that is the Nintendo Switch. While this may offer the grounds to explore old games in fresh and new interesting ways, it's also likely this decision came about due to the lucrative success Nintendo has found with their new line of Classic systems. Packaged with the best games of each console generation, the NES Classic and SNES Classic have been flying off of store shelves faster than Nintendo can hope to meet this demand. And if Nintendo's patent filings from last summer and more recently just last month are any indication (though they could understandably just be covering their bases), it seems inevitable that the N64 Classic is next on the list. As the SNES classic was announced last year just 2 weeks after E3, it is entirely feasible that we could hear similar announcements for a N64 Classic in just a week's time here. As such, I thought it'd be fun to consider / predict what games may grace this N64 Classic if such is to come to fruition.
 |
| N64 controller logo trademarked by Nintendo back in August, 2017; Holds a striking resemblance to the other Classic logos. |
A few factors to consider before we dive into our list here: The NES Classic was priced at $60 with 30 games, and the SNES Classic was priced at $80 with 21 games (and an extra controller). Each system only supported up to 2 players and, if compared to Virtual Console prices, offered buyers $150-$168 worth of games respectively. So how many games and types of games will depend on these factors and the price point they aim to market this next in line Classic at. I don't see this being priced any more than $100 ($99.99) as any more beyond that goes against the tantalization of it being an impulse buy. So depending how many controllers they throw in, the game count may be as little as 10-15 games this time. Consider also that Nintendo still sells many of these renowned N64 games as upgraded ports for the 3DS at $20-40 a pop, so they may not be so eager to release all the greats on this one bundle. With that said, let's not be afraid to dream big and see what Nintendo could offer:
Top 5 First-Party Games
-1- Super Mario 64
The game that launched with the N64 and revolutionized the gaming industry with what could be achieved in 3D gaming, Super Mario 64 is an absolute no-brainer. And the game still holds up tremendously to this day, inspiring the likes of the recent exploration-focused Super Mario Odyssey.
-2- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Heralded as one of the best games of all time, Ocarina of Time is likely another shoe-in for this Classic, giving this little nostalgic machine that much more credibility for investing into. This first foray into 3D for the Zelda series was handled with incredible tact, setting the standard for 3D camera controls for generations of 3D adventure games to come.
-3- Star Fox 64
After the less than stellar Star Fox Zero for Wii-U, it would do Nintendo good to show the world again where Star Fox was at its best: Star Fox 64. With the branching paths, arcade-like scoring system, and delightfully cheesy dialog, there is a lot of fun and replay value to be found in this game. Unfortunately, it's unlikely fans will be able to enjoy the rumble features as was newly introduced and advertised on this box art.
-4- Wave Race 64
The director of Wave Race has hinted that the series may be seeing a return in the near future. So what better way to get players on board and excited at these prospects than to include such in this retro-fitted Classic. Better yet, the game is designed to be enjoyed with 1-2 players already, so it's in the realm of practical multiplayer games without the need of too much additional investment on either end.
-5- Paper Mario
Nothing will be able to compete with what was the magnum opus of RPG's that was the SNES Classic, but a good RPG should still find way into the N64 Classic, and Paper Mario is the perfect fit for such. Hopefully such will also showcase the strength of this series' roots and make for a positive push to get this series back on the proper track. (Also personally hoping that such would help recognize Paper Mario as the perfect addition as a new Smash fighter)
-----
As an added bonus, let's take a look at the Top 5 Third-Party games that could grace the likes of a N64 Classic too. Keep in mind Third-Party games have the added challenge of dealing with licensing rights from other publishers. As such, there is the likelihood that Nintendo would focus more on First-Party titles and few of these would actually pan out. With that said, I'm fairly certain at least a few Third-Party games would be highlighted, and these would be your best candidates in my books:
Top 5 Third-Party Games
-1- GoldenEye 007
GoldenEye 007 would perhaps be one of the most difficult games to obtain, due to the multitude of rights to publishers and character properties. But this game also represents what is perhaps one of the most defining multiplayer games of the N64's lifespan, not to mention for FPS games in general. For that reason, I can see Nintendo fighting hard to get this particular title included. It also sports an enjoyable single player campaign, which would be nice for those not looking to invest in extra controllers.
-2- Diddy Kong Racing
Although also made by Rare, Diddy Kong Racing could have a decent chance of making an appearance with Diddy being the main mascot. It also saw re-release on the DS with the removal of Banjo and Conker. But with a little negotiation, they may be able to work back in these characters to enjoy the game as originally intended. And if the rumors of a certain sci-fi racing game to be heavily influenced by this unique adventure racer are to be believed, what better way to generate excitement than to showcase the whimsical potential that comes from combining racing with adventure tropes in this beloved gem.
-3- Harvest Moon 64
Harvest Moon 64 remains to this day my favorite entry in this entire series, and has served as the inspiration for many other notable games such as the ever popular Stardew Valley. So it would be to Natsume's best interest to display to the world one of its crowning achievements, and rekindle the flame that is the simple pleasures of farming, nature, and life.
-4- Banjo-Kazooie
Another Rare game you say? Just how many games do you think Microsoft is willing to part onto this dreamy Classic? Hear me out. It's not without precedent that Banjo-Kazooie saw release on a Nintendo console while owned by Microsoft, to which I direct your attention to Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty's Revenge for the GBA. So a willingness to share this lovable bear and bird has been displayed before. And if the cards line up right, say there is a new Banjo-Kazooie game in the works or perhaps if this dynamic duo were to make the new Smash Bros roster, there could be that much more reason and possibility for this esteemed platforming adventure to be seen on the Classic.
-5- Bomberman 64
Bomberman has seen a recent resurgence in popularity, with Bomberman R selling surprisingly well as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch. As the Bomberman titles for the N64 featured some rather enjoyable single player adventures to boot, it would make for a great addition to this lineup, as well as some fun extra value for those who may invest in additional controllers itching for some multiplayer mayhem.
-----
Any other notable games I didn't mention above that you see likely as making the cut? Or even if unlikely, any games on your wish list you'd love to see? Be sure to share and discuss in the comments below. And happy gaming!
No comments:
Post a Comment