N64: 10 years on

[wraggster]

via gamesradar (http://www.gamesradar.com/gb/wii/game/news/article.jsp?sectionId=1006&articleId=2007022894644406070&releaseId=2006022811153671099)

It's hard to believe, but today is the tenth anniversary of the UK launch of Nintendo 64. Has it really been that long since we stood as teenagers in the then-new Virgin Megastore and watched in awe as some kid manoeuvred his way skillessly across a spectacular landscape in PilotWings 64? Apparently so.

Of course, as we all know, the console was eventually overrun by the PSone horde, despite N64's superior technology. Blurry graphics, a 'child's toy' image and a severe shortage of new games all contributed to its premature demise. But we, like thousands of fans across the country (and millions across the world) saw past its relative shortcomings and rejoiced at its innovation and charm.

So now we look at its legacy - the innovations that helped shape gaming as we know it today. Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses to... Nintendo 64.

[whatsorrow]

I still remember the first night I played mario 64.....that is one of the greatest gaming moments ever!! Long live the ANALOG!!

[lexluthor]

What a great console. It had some truly fantastic games. I still cant understand why ANYONE would want to play a horrible grainy Tomb Raider over the masterpiece that is OOT.

[Shadowblind]

When I first got the N64 the first games I bought was OOT and Goldeneye. From then on I became game-spoiled :D

[Junixx]

1st N64 game ever played.....Mario Kart 64 :D

[lexluthor]

When I first got the N64 the first games I bought was OOT and Goldeneye. From then on I became game-spoiled :D

Haha, wow. You pretty much couldn't ask for more.

[Zion]

n64 is the best console ever made in my opinion.

FACT :D

[Welshboy]

Goldeneye, its the reason i'm obsessed with first person shooters. Many, many hours on that second level.....forgotten what it was called now though?

[V3N0M]

I remember one of the first N64 games I played was Mario Party. Those were the good old days... This is why I enjoy the Homebrew scene so much! The Homebrew scene is what revives these old consoles. Because eventually as with all machines they become old and eventually non-repairable. The Homebrew scene guaranties the survival of these consoles and their amazing games into the future.

[cswallstreet]

I love my N64. I still have it too :). Loved the games Goldeneye, Percect Dark, Super Smash Brothers, and the Mario Partys. BTW Welshboy the second lvl is the Facility, my favorite as well.

[rawfodog]

I am still pissed that my college roomate left our door unlocked and my Z64 Mr. Backup got stolen. argh... :mad: :mad:

[souLLy]

Definitely one of the best consoles of all time. N64 we salute you!

[brainpan]

Jeez...I remember saving up all year for the N64. I remember EVERYONE being excited at the possibility that 3d games were bringing to the table. I didnt even have enough money for a game at first but once I bought Mario64 it was on. I I played that game for almost most of a year because there were not a lot of games coming out. I dont think i ever have been as excited for a new console release.

[eLAy12]

yup yup ...alot of time wasted playin that thing....gotta love that Golden eye, perfect dark, and mario parties...all pioneers to todays games.

[WastingTheDawn]

Super Mario 64 made me hooked on it gotta get all the stars lol

[wolfpack]

I kept my N64, I remember when i got it the first christmas it came out. I had 2 games that came with it, Mario 64 and Cruisin' USA. I was 6 at the time and I just couldnt stop playing. But my gaming years started when i was 2 :P