Most Underrated Nintendo 64 Games
The Nintendo 64 may be remembered for heavy hitters like ‘Super Mario 64’ and ‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time’, but its library is packed with hidden treasures that didn’t get the spotlight they deserved. Some were overshadowed by bigger releases, while others were simply misunderstood at the time. Today, they’re worth revisiting for their creativity, charm, and gameplay that still holds up surprisingly well.
These games might not have topped sales charts, but they offered unique experiences that stood apart from the more famous titles. Whether they experimented with new mechanics, delivered unforgettable atmosphere, or just had a quirky personality all their own, these gems show why the Nintendo 64’s library is deeper than most remember.
10. ‘Mischief Makers’
This quirky side-scrolling action game stood out on the N64 because it was one of the few 2D-style platformers on the system. You played as Marina Liteyears, a robotic maid who could grab, shake, and throw enemies and objects to solve puzzles and defeat bosses.
Its vibrant anime-inspired art style and oddball sense of humor made it truly unique. While it wasn’t a massive hit during its release, ‘Mischief Makers’ is fondly remembered by those who gave it a chance, and its mix of action and puzzle-solving feels just as fresh today.
9. ‘Blast Corps’
In ‘Blast Corps’, you’re tasked with clearing a path for a runaway nuclear missile carrier by demolishing buildings and obstacles. The concept was pure arcade chaos, and the variety of vehicles you could use kept things interesting.
What made it special was the combination of fast-paced destruction and strategic thinking. It was a perfect blend of satisfying mayhem and careful planning, yet it never got the same recognition as other N64 hits.
8. ‘Beetle Adventure Racing’
On the surface, this seemed like just another racing game with Volkswagen Beetles, but it turned out to be one of the system’s most fun and creative racers. Tracks were packed with shortcuts, hidden areas, and interactive environments that made every race unpredictable.
Its responsive controls and unique course designs kept players coming back. Despite being tied to a specific car brand, it offered some of the most engaging arcade-style racing of the era.
7. ‘Body Harvest’
‘Body Harvest’ was ahead of its time, blending open-world exploration, vehicle combat, and third-person shooting. You played as a soldier traveling across time periods to stop alien invaders from harvesting humanity.
Its ambitious scope meant some rough edges, but it laid the groundwork for future open-world action games. Even with its flaws, it offered a sense of freedom and scale that few N64 titles could match.
6. ‘Space Station Silicon Valley’
This bizarre and clever platformer had you controlling a robot microchip that could inhabit the bodies of robotic animals, each with unique abilities. The puzzles and exploration were full of inventive challenges.
Its humor and creative design made it a cult favorite. While it never became a mainstream success, it’s still one of the most original and imaginative titles on the N64.
5. ‘Goemon’s Great Adventure’
This colorful side-scrolling adventure combined platforming, exploration, and Japanese folklore. You could play solo or team up with a friend to take on whimsical enemies and massive bosses.
Its hand-drawn art style and upbeat tone made it stand out, and the mix of humor and challenging gameplay gave it lasting appeal. Unfortunately, it slipped under the radar for many players outside Japan.
4. ‘Iggy’s Reckin’ Balls’
‘Iggy’s Reckin’ Balls’ offered something completely different from traditional racers. Instead of driving, you controlled ball-shaped characters racing up spiraling tracks, swinging from hooks and bumping into rivals.
The game’s creative level design and chaotic multiplayer made it a blast with friends. Its offbeat concept kept it from mainstream fame, but it’s one of the most unique competitive games on the N64.
3. ‘Tetrisphere’
This puzzle game took the classic ‘Tetris’ formula and spun it into something entirely new by wrapping it around a 3D sphere. You chipped away at layers to reach the core, using strategy and quick thinking to keep up with the pace.
Its hypnotic music and addicting gameplay made it hard to put down. While it never reached the same legendary status as traditional ‘Tetris’, it deserves recognition for its bold innovation.
2. ‘Rocket: Robot on Wheels’
Developed by the studio that would go on to create ‘Sly Cooper’, this charming platformer put you in control of a single-wheeled robot tasked with repairing an amusement park. The game featured realistic physics and inventive puzzles that set it apart.
Its vibrant worlds and satisfying mechanics made it a joy to play. Despite glowing reviews, it was overshadowed by bigger platforming names on the system.
1. ‘Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber’
This deep and complex strategy RPG offered branching storylines, moral choices, and a large cast of characters. It combined real-time unit movement with turn-based combat for a rich tactical experience.
With its intricate gameplay and replay value, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre. Sadly, its late release and limited marketing meant many N64 owners never discovered it, making it the most underrated game on the system.
Which of these forgotten gems have you played, and which ones do you think deserve even more love?