Star Fox 64
Phil Kehoe
In following with the tradition of Nintendo 64 games so far,
Nintendo has released yet another update to a classic game
from the past. Their have been some mixed results.
Mario 64 is considered one of the best games of all times while
in Mario Kart's case many people still prefer the original.
Star Fox 64 is definitely along the lines of Mario 64.
It is a fantastic update to an already awesome game.
Graphics (4.7/5/0)
The graphics are some of the best I have ever seen in a next-generation
system. The game moves very quickly and smoothly even though
there can be many things on the screen. Slowdown rarely occurs.
Only during a couple of bosses when they are firing super weapons
or dying. This is one of those games where you see something on
the screen and your jaw just drops to the floor. The real-time
cinemas are fabulous and they really set the mood for the missions
ahead. One problem I did notice with the graphics is that big ships
look pixelated when they are far away and then kind of clear up when
they get closer. The best thing about the graphics those is the fact
that they can show these visuals with NO FOGGING that has plagued Turok.
Two things that are must sees for any video game player is the lava level
(Solar) and Andross himself. I think Andross replaces the T-Rex
in Turok as the most impressive boss I've ever seen.
Sound/Music (4.9/5.0)
The great thing about Star fox 64 is that not only do the graphics
totally amaze but so does the sound. I couldn't believe not only
how much everybody says but also how many different characters
there are that have their own voices. When the game starts and a
voice reads the prologue to you, I couldn't believe what I was hearing.
Everything is crystal clear and must be played through a Dolby
system to be appreciated. Everybody has been complaining about
the music but to be honest with you I didn't even notice music
was playing. After playing all night I took a rest and was thinking
about the game and I couldn't even remember what the music sounded
like. But I did like the music in the easy ending. Very impressive.
I guess I will have to listen to my free music CD.
Gameplay (5.0/5.0)
It doesn't get any better than this for a shooting game. The N64 pad
is used to its fullest as you use every button that you can reach
while using the analog pad. Speaking of the analog stick, playing
a game of this genre will never be the same. Star fox 64 is the
kind of game that analog sticks are made for. Everything on the
screen moves precisely with you movements. I suggest taking one trip
through the training mode and you will have every move down.
The rumble pak also adds to the game. I never will play without it.
It even adds to the gameplay. Here is one situation. Enemies love
attacking from behind well sometimes you might be at the top of the
screen when you get shot and don't see the blast, well the rumble pak
lets you know that you got shot. I can't wait for more games to come
out that support it. The tank is also very fun (I haven't made it to
the submarine level yet) and easy to control.
Overall (4.86/5.0)
Let's face it. For the coming months it just might not get any better
than this. Everything about this game yells Nintendo and the kind
of games they create. You know why you bought a Nintendo 64.
To play Miyamoto games. Well here is only of the greatest creations
he has ever accomplished. Its just too bad that we have to wait a
couple months for another game from him. Buy this game, don't even
think about renting it. Next to Mario and Wave Race, this is the best
reason to own a N64.