"The N64 is definitely an entertaining system."

The N64 is a great console so close to perfection. It uses cartridges rather than CDs, and is the system that revolutionized video games today as we know it.

Game Library: 9/10
What made this system so enthralling was definitely its game library. So many classics came out for this system that were very enjoyable. Do you think you'll see as many classics on any other system in this generation? The N64 was the successor to the other consoles of this era. There are many notable hits such as Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, Donkey Kong 64, Perfect Dark, Goldeneye, Mario Party 2, Mario Party 3, Mario Tennis, Road Rash 64, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, the list goes on and on. Many of N64's classics are very memorable and are what define this system and bring it close to perfection.

Graphics: 8/10
Excellent graphics for their time I suppose, but they really are starting to show their age, especially since the N64 has been out for over a decade. However the graphics are quite up to par with the N64's competitors, and are actually not as bad as some people say. The Mario games really shine in this aspect. These graphics were the first 3D graphics on a video game system also.

Sound: 8/10
N64's sound is very good for most of the games in its library, but the sound isn't as crisp and clear as newer consoles. However this might be because the system is starting to show its age. But the sound is still great for most of the N64's game library.

System Design: 7/10
A black, slightly curved box with a cartridge slot for your games, four controller ports in the front, a power switch and a reset button. Despite better designed systems that are released, I like and prefer the simplicity of the N64. No major problems here.

System Controllers: 9/10
The N64's game controllers are quite comfortable and easy-to-use. I also prefer the simplicity of the N64's controllers to newer controllers, and it has a wide variety of buttons that are used for most games. Also includes a slot in the back for a memory card or rumble pak. The controller is innovative, simple, comfortable, manageable, and likable.

Multiplayer: 9/10
The N64 flourishes when it comes to multiplayer gaming. Yes, FOUR controller ports in the front of the system for you and your friends to game with. Nothing better than a 4-player Mario Party 3 game, or racing your friend(s) in Mario Kart 64. Nintendo really made some excellent multiplayer platformers for this system. Mario-themed games especially thrive when it comes to multiplayer gaming. You must play with friends often.

Final Recommendation: Buy
To conclude this review I recommend buying the N64, even though there are better designed and supported consoles out there. Yes, I know this system is old, but it is quite a classic. Of course, the games are what makes the N64 shine. Buy the N64, it is thoroughly entertaining and engrossing. Definitely worth the time and money spent.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10 | Originally Posted: 01/05/09

Game Release: Nintendo 64 Hardware (US, 09/29/96)

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