Not Quite Dead Yet–Adventure Games on the N64

Not Quite Dead Yet–Adventure Games on the N64

By Mike Schwab

The Nintendo 64 system (or N64) is without a doubt in the autumn of its existence, with winter approaching fast. Because Nintendo’s new system, the Game Cube, is scheduled to arrive in late 2001, many titles for the N64 have been delayed and/or cancelled. Despite all this doom and gloom, the fact remains that there are some very impressive and high-quality adventure games due out for the N64 in the next few months. If you write the N64 off before it’s properly buried, you could be missing out.

Don’t have one, you say? Well, here’s some good news for you frugal-minded gamers–because the N64 is on its way out, you can practically pick one up with some spare pocket change. Doing a quick price check on eBay, I found several N64 systems in the $50 to $75 range, and many included more than just the basic setup. If you insist on a shiny new unit still in the box, you won’t have to pay more than $99 anywhere. Furthermore, there are several online (as well as local) stores to either rent or purchase old games at discounted prices.

The N64 still packs some pretty good graphics (some games will require the expansion pack) and sound and, in my opinion, the coolest controllers ever created. With several games still in development and production, there’s no reason to believe the N64 can’t have a strong run to the end. Here’s a quick overview of some of the adventure games either recently released or due out in the next few months, with release dates in parentheses.

Perfect Dark (released)–Although this game was released earlier this year, I’m including it here because it’s one of the best titles available for the N64. While wandering pretty far into the action category, there are still adventure elements throughout this engrossing X Files-type story with tons of objectives to accomplish and numerous locations to visit. You play Joanna Dark, a government agent investigating a suspicious technology company possibly involved in an alien conspiracy.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (recently released)–The Zelda games have always been well-done and clever, albeit sometimes a bit cutesy for many people’s taste. This incarnation has the game’s hero, Link, pursuing a new enemy through a slightly darker world than fans of the game are used to. In addition, the game incorporates timed events and deadlines as a primary function of the game, which should be an interesting twist. Look for a full review soon.

Hercules: The Legendary Journeys (11/17/00)–Until its official release, this game is available only as a rental through Blockbuster. You’ll explore 12 huge worlds as one of three different characters (Hercules included, of course), each with different abilities. Dozens of puzzles and quests await as you search for lost artifacts that aid you in your eventual showdown with Hercules’ own brother, Ares.

Banjo-Tooie (11/20/00)–The sequel to the energetic Banjo-Kazooie. You’ll again control both bird and bear through much larger areas with improved graphics. These games have a definite Mario 64-type feel and are very addictive and just plain fun to play. Developed by the fantastic third-party company Rare, it’s hard to believe this platform/adventure title won’t be solid. Interestingly enough, Rare has included a multiplayer mode as well.

Scooby Doo: Classic Creep Capers (11/21/00)–How cool, an opportunity to control the well-known gang of Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and Scoob. Adapted right from the cartoon series, you’ll move through three separate episodes and enjoy voice acting from the entire original cast. Scooby Snack, anyone?

Indiana Jones & The Infernal Machine (December 2000)–The original tomb raider himself, now in glorious 3D. The PC version of this game was panned, but reports say that LucasArts cleaned it up for release on the N64. Improved graphics, puzzles, and control will hopefully whip this game into shape.

Roswell Conspiracies: Aliens, Myth, & Legends (Q4 2000)–Based on the animated series, this story is another X Files scenario with a heavy dose of horror. Your characters will hunt werewolves and vampires while solving puzzles and protecting the earth from an alien invasion.

Dinosaur Planet (1/15/01)–Another intriguing title by Nintendo’s savior, Rare. This ambitious and epic story will be one of the biggest games ever for the N64, and it apparently had jaws dropping at the E3 earlier this year. Highlights include gigantic worlds and extensive speech sequences. You play as a duo that travels to faraway worlds in hopes of saving the universe.

Aidyn Chronicles: The First Mage (1/16/01)–Stepping into the virtually vacant RPG arena for the N64 is Canadian-based H20. Nintendo is hoping this little-known shop can produce a unique game that will reel both role-playing and adventure fans in. Your character, Alaron, will traverse the fully 3D lands with a party of up to four characters in search of his origins.

Eternal Darkness (2/15/01)–One of the most exciting titles on the horizon, Eternal Darkness is Nintendo’s foray into the realm of survival horror. This eerie and complex tale spans multiple eras over a 2000-year period, and you’ll control several different characters throughout as the story progresses. This game is unquestionably adult-oriented and actually features a “sanity meter.” I’ll let your imagination run with the possibilities on that one.