Top Nintendo 64 Games: Best Sellers in Gaming History Ever
The Nintendo 64 (N64) is one of the most iconic gaming consoles in history, known for its innovative 3D gameplay and memorable titles. Here are the top-selling N64 games that have left a lasting impact on the gaming world.
Top 5 Best-Selling Nintendo 64 Games
1. Super Mario 64
With nearly 12 million copies sold, Super Mario 64 stands as the best-selling N64 game of all time. This groundbreaking title was the first 3D Mario game and set the standard for future 3D platformers. Its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and immersive worlds have made it a timeless classic. Bundled with the N64 console, it was a launch title that showcased the console's capabilities and remains a favorite among gamers.
2. Mario Kart 64
Mario Kart 64 is the second-best-selling N64 game, with over 9.8 million copies sold. This racing game brought the Mario Kart series into the 3D era, offering fast-paced racing, colorful tracks, and iconic characters. Its simplicity and addictive gameplay made it a staple in many gamers' collections.
3. GoldenEye 007
GoldenEye 007 ranks third with over 8 million copies sold. Developed by Rare, this first-person shooter revolutionized the genre with its split-screen multiplayer mode and engaging single-player campaign. It remains one of the most influential games in the FPS genre.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
With over 7.6 million copies sold, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is not only a best-seller but also widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time. Its 3D open-world design, innovative time-travel mechanics, and memorable characters have made it a classic that continues to influence modern gaming.
5. Super Smash Bros.
Super Smash Bros. rounds out the top five with over 5.5 million copies sold. This fighting game brought together iconic Nintendo characters in a unique and chaotic battle format. Its simplicity and multiplayer capabilities made it a favorite among gamers, and it has since spawned a successful franchise.
Other Notable Best-Sellers
Banjo-Kazooie
Banjo-Kazooie, another Rare title, sold over 3.6 million copies. This 3D platformer is known for its charming characters, witty dialogue, and challenging levels. It remains a beloved game in the N64 library.
Pokémon Stadium
Pokémon Stadium sold over 2.7 million copies, capitalizing on the Pokémon craze of the time. This game allowed players to battle their Pokémon in 3D, offering a new dimension to the Pokémon franchise.
Diddy Kong Racing
Diddy Kong Racing sold over 2.5 million copies, providing a fun and family-friendly racing experience. Developed by Rare, it featured colorful graphics and a variety of characters and tracks.
Impact on Gaming History
The N64's best-selling games have had a significant impact on gaming history. Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time set new standards for 3D gameplay, influencing countless other titles. GoldenEye 007 revolutionized the first-person shooter genre, and Super Smash Bros. created a unique fighting game format that has become a staple in Nintendo's lineup.
These games not only sold well but also left a lasting legacy in the gaming world, shaping the direction of future game development and cementing the N64's place as one of the most iconic consoles in history.
Playing N64 Games Today
For those who want to relive these classics or experience them for the first time, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers a convenient way to play many N64 titles. This subscription service includes a wide variety of N64 games, allowing players to enjoy these timeless classics on modern hardware.
Developer Contributions
Developers like Rare and Nintendo's internal teams played crucial roles in the success of the N64. Rare's titles, such as GoldenEye 007 and Banjo-Kazooie, showcased the company's ability to create innovative and engaging games. Nintendo's internal teams, led by legendary developers like Shigeru Miyamoto, produced masterpieces like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
Franchise Impact
The success of N64 games also boosted several franchises. The Pokémon franchise, for example, saw significant growth with titles like Pokémon Stadium, while the Mario and Zelda series continued to thrive with Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. These franchises have since become cornerstones of Nintendo's lineup, with new titles continuing to build on the success of their N64 predecessors.
Sales and Popularity
The N64's best-selling games were not just successful in terms of sales; they also had a significant cultural impact. Games like Super Mario 64 and Mario Kart 64 became household names, with many gamers having fond memories of playing these titles with friends and family. The popularity of these games helped establish the N64 as a major player in the gaming market, despite its relatively short lifespan.