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Wave Race 64

Get the game at Amazon.com!

Reviewed by Brian C. Kelly I have been reading about this game for several months, and last week it was finally released. I had some idea of what the game would look like, but my expectations were totally blown away. And to start it all off, the opening cut sceen really shows off the N64's capabilities.

Graphics - 4.8 / 5.0

With the beautifully rendered waves, colorful scenery, and smooth characters, the graphics look awesome. I am still amazed of the waves that are generated in real-time, so even the computer can screw up (Whoa!). And they didn't just stop with the graphics while you are playing, the screen where you enter your initials for records is amazing! The letters appear to come out of the water! The one downside to the graphics is the reduced resolution in two-player mode. It is defiantly noticeable (no sun-flares, no reflections, less scenery, etc.), but that had to be done to keep up the 30 fps rate, so it is understandable.

Sound - 4.7 / 5.0

How did they fit so much voice in this 64-Megabit cart?! The sound is incredible -- clear, loud, CD-quality. When you begin any track, you are greeted by a female voice telling you the track you are at. I really enjoyed the announcer at first, but I have to admit, he does get repetitive, but not exactly annoying. The water sounds unbelievably real -- the slightest movement of your Jet Ski can be heard. The music is up to par, but not any better -- high General MIDI quality that lets you still hear the sound effects well.

Control - 4.9 / 5.0

Yet another great quality of this game -- The Control. Once you play around with it for awhile, you'll love it. I have to say, it does take some getting used to, but it is well worth the wait. You really only use one button, B, which is your throttle. It can also be controlled with using just one hand, comfortably, by using the trigger Z button! The instructions say that you can use A to dampen the waves and R to glide on the waves but they really aren't too useful.

Gameplay/Fun Factor - 5.0 / 5.0

You will definitely find yourself becoming addicted to this game. The sound, graphics, and fun of Wave Race 64 makes it such a great game. Sometimes, I just find myself riding around in Dolphin Park for a half hour practicing stunts and flips! For some reason, it never gets boring or dull (like Super Mario 64, after playing it for awhile). The speed and fluentness of the game make you want to just keep on playing and having a great time.

Lastability - 4.8 / 5.0

This game is an instant classic -- It definatly will be played time and time again, just like how F-Zero was for the SNES. I could just try to beat my own course and lap times for months! And with the support for the Controller Pak -- You can compete with your friends until your thumbs hurt! If you're worrying about purchasing the game because you think you'll beat it in a week -- DON'T! I am incredibility glad I bought this game, it will last for a long, long time!

Let's sum it all up...

GraphicsSoundControlGameplay/Fun FactorLastabilityOverall
4.84.74.95.04.84.9

(Points are out of 5.0)

This game is a definite winner in my book. Now, what are you waiting for?! GO GET IT!!!

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