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F-Zero X
One of the most anticipated N64 games is finally available, in Japan. But if you're like me,
and don't want to wait until October 26 for the American release you would have imported the game. One thing that bothers me is when they try to turn a 2D game into a 3D one
and it just doesn't work (Mario 64 or Contra anyone?), but that's not the case with F-Zero X. Like Star Fox and the 10+ Mega Man titles out there, F-Zero X stays true to its form, and it ends up a winner.
It has 30 cars, 26 tracks, 4 player mode, 4 difficulty levels. The features just don't stop, and neither will this game. In game, all 30 cars are on the screen at once, and
teh frame rate is so fluid it's amazing. F-Zero is definatley a sure N64 hit.
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| Graphics |
As most people have heard, the graphics are fairly dull. There are some things that stand out, like
the light mapping on the cars, and the lighting effecs used for the engines. But, basically the objects are very bland and not detailed. However, I have no problem
with this because they sacraficed looks for fun and speed. Which is something all developers should start doing.
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| Sound |
The sound effects don't seem too memorable. In fact, the only one I can remember right now is the announcer saying, "You've got boost
power!" just because the quality is so poor. The rest of the sounds are typical engine sounds, humming, servos, crashes, etc. Not that great. However, when you get
to the music, that's what makes the game shine. For N64, I thought the music was really great. The tunes are definatley more hardcore then the lame electronica stuff that's been
flooding most racing games out there. The music really fits the fast pace of this game. Also, you'll notice some remixes of Big Blue and Mute City from the original.
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| Control |
This game shines right here in the control department. When you play this game, everything just feels right. You get the hang of the cars in a
few minutes, and you're set. You can use the Z and R buttons to lean into the turns left or right respectivley, which really helps on some of the tighter turns in later on courses.
There are multiple views. I prefer the two that are lowest to the ground. It makes the sense of speed seem even faster. The only view I don't really care for is the almost bird's eye view.
It makes the game seem slower, plus you can't see ahead of you. Also, there is an air-brake which is used by the Down C button. To this day, I still have not used the brake, just easing up on the gas
is definatley enough. One thing I did like is how the cars will slide out from under you (mostly the ones with poor handling). I think it adds a little realistic effect, although it might frustrate some players (it did to my friend).
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| Challenge/Fun |
If there is a fun game out for N64, this is definatley it. The 4-Player mode is great, because you can add options like CPU filler players, and a slot machine
so the other players don't get bored if they die early in the match. Also, the much talked about X Cup is brilliant. In case you haven't heard, after beating the initial four cups on
the initial three levels, you open up the X Cup. It's a random track generator! And it creates some random designs. My favorite so far has been one, where it went almost straight down and right
simultaneously on one of the curves. I came in first purely because every computer opponent flew off the track. The side attacks are fun too. Even though I don't think you get rewarded for it,
the satisfaction of seeing how many kills (which are displayed on the side in stars) is so fun, especially if you kill the rival. Nintendo really thought about making a fun game here, and it shows.
Challenge wise, this game is cake... until you get to the extreme difficulty level. I have still yet to beat anything on master. I think it's impossible. There's so much in this game,
I don't think you'll be bored for a long time. This game should definatley last longer than Goldeneye in my opinion.
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| Overall |
Overall, this has to be one of my favorite games. Since I have the Japanese version, I plan on importing the 64DD (which I don't think will
make it here to America) just to use the track creation disk that will be released. If you are thinking about importing this game, I would recommened it. There is hardly any Japanese in this game
and the little that is there, is easy to figure out by trial and error. It's nice to see games being made for lastability and fun rather than the current trend of just out-doing the competition with eye-candy.
I definatley recommend this game, and I think everybody will be able to enjoy it.
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