Home >> Internet Games >> Classic Console Games

Is the Nintendo 64 the Greatest Console Ever? A Balanced Perspective

"Greatest ever" is subjective. The N64 (1996) is undeniably influential but has clear flaws. Here's the breakdown:

✅ Arguments FOR "Greatest"

Pioneering 3D: Super Mario 64 defined 3D platforming; Ocarina of Time defined 3D action-adventure (Z-targeting, context-sensitive buttons)
Innovative Controller: Analog stick (standardized), Z-trigger, C-buttons (camera), 4-player ports built-in
Local Multiplayer King: GoldenEye 007, Mario Kart 64, Smash 64, Perfect Dark, Bomberman 64 — defined couch gaming
Rareware Golden Era: Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, Jet Force Gemini, Diddy Kong Racing — unmatched 2nd-party output
Cartridge Advantages: Zero load times, durability, on-cart save (no memory card), hardware expansion (Rumble Pak, Transfer Pak, Expansion Pak)

❌ Arguments AGAINST

Cartridge Limitations: 64 MB max (vs 650 MB CD). Compressed textures, short audio, cut content (RE2 needed 2 carts), high cost ($60–$80), small library (~388 NA)
No Online: Randnet (Japan only, 1999) failed. Missed the online revolution (Dreamcast, PS2)
Controller Ergonomics: 3-prong design forced "claw" grip for analog+Z. Uncomfortable for long sessions
Texture Blurring: 4 KB texture cache → bilinear filtering on everything. "Vaseline look."
Third-Party Exodus: Squaresoft, Enix, Capcom (mostly), Konami (mostly) went PlayStation. Library gaps: RPGs, Fighting, JRPGs
Short Lifespan: 1996–2002 (6 yrs). GameCube launched 2001

📊 By the Numbers

Metric	N64	PS1	SNES
Units Sold	32.93M	102.49M	49.10M
Games Released (NA)	388	~1,300	~780
Metacritic Avg (Top 20)	94	92	93
Innovation Impact	10/10	9/10	8/10

🏆 Verdict

Greatest Innovation? Yes, top 3 all-time (with Wii, iPhone)
Greatest Library? No. PS1, PS2, SNES, PC, Switch beat it
Greatest Multiplayer? Yes, local. GoldenEye/Perfect Dark/MK64/Smash 64 untouched
Greatest Overall? Depends on what you value. If 4-player GoldenEye nights define gaming for you → Yes. If JRPGs, CD audio, library depth → No

Personal Take: The N64 is the highest peak / lowest valley console. Its best 10 games are 10/10 masterpieces; its median game is forgettable. That duality makes it endlessly debated — and beloved.

Classic Console Games