The Nintendo 64 has a diverse library of games that covers many different genres. Racing has always been a big part of the console’s appeal, especially with multiplayer modes. And now, 30 years after its initial release, gamers still have fond memories of playing Wave Race 64 with their friends.
The first Wave Race game was originally released on the Game Boy in 1992. Four years later in November 1996, Wave Race 64 would be the sequel released for the Nintendo 64. The premise of the game is racing on jet skis in the open water. It was colorful, displayed in full 3D, and delivered action-packed races for players who wanted a sense of speed.
Wave Race 64 was one of the earlier racing games developed for the Nintendo 64. While other racing games would further develope the design of racing titles later on, Wave Race 64 still had everything to be a fun racer. A Championship Mode, Time Trials, and Stunt Mode would make up the majority of the single-player content. While multiplayer would be 1-on-1 races between two players on a single screen.
Driving on the water with a jet ski was fast-paced, and required maneuvering between buoy markers placed on the track. Depending on the color of the buoy, players would have to pass by them on a specific side to stay on the track. Maintaining the right course will increase the jet ski’s speed and allow players to dash through the track.
Originally, Wave Race 64 was going to have transforming speed boats that players would control. However, this was changed during development to have jet skis instead. The ability to do stunts during a race also gave the game a distinct presentation in comparison to other racing games.
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Upon release, Wave Race 64 was both a critical and commercial success. Critics praised the visual presentation and the overal gameplay, despite the game being short to play through. It was viewed as one of the first great games around the console’s launch, alongside other classics like Super Mario 64.
Players loved the multiplayer modes and replay value, which was perfect for the Nintendo 64 at the time. The game managed to sell over 1 million units by the end of 1996, and over the years has been praised as one of the best games released for the console.
