Star Fox 64 (Wii Virtual Console) Review
Posted by Cory Moore on 05.11.2007
Vitals
Genre
Flight Action
System
Nintendo 64
Release Date
Q2 1997
Star Fox 64 debuts on the Virtual Console 10 years after its initial run with the Nintendo 64. How does the former "Player's Choice" aerial shooter hold up? Find out inside!
In 1997, Nintendo released the sequel to one of the Super Nintendo’s most successful games, Star Fox. Star Fox 64 is widely considered one of the best games of the Nintendo 64’s lifespan to this day, thanks to its perfecting of air combat and the ability to move freely around battle grounds through “all-range mode.” At the time of its release, the game garnered great, but not spectacular, reviews. Like fine wine, Star Fox 64’s reputation as a tremendous experience has only increased throughout the years.
In Star Fox 64, you are put in control of Fox McCloud, the leader of a four-man team that is in charge of an investigation of strange activity on the planet Venom. Along the way, the team encounters roadblocks set up by Andross, the evil scientist bent on destroying Fox and friends, and his own band of rebels collectively known as Star Wolf. A player mans three different vehicles: the air-based Arwing, the tank known as the Landmaster, and the Blue Marine sub for the underwater level of Aquas.
Despite being released a decade ago, Star Fox 64 holds up remarkably well. The character models are noticeably rough, but that holds true for many Nintendo 64 games. The vehicles and environments, however, are well-designed, and the game moves at a considerable pace. The dialogue of Fox’s comrades is repetitive and annoying, but in intense battle sequences, it is imperative that you keep them alive. If you salvage your squad for long periods of time, you build up accolades that lead to medals and further progress in the game.
Star Fox 64’s controls make a smooth transition to the Virtual Console, especially if you have a Gamecube controller handy. The scheme works perfectly, since the six main buttons are located relatively close to each other. You’re going to primarily be using ‘A’ for shooting and ‘B’ for bomb attacks. ‘Y’ is used for boost (and the somersault) and ‘X’ controls your brakes (and turning around in all-range mode). The shoulder buttons still control your dodging and barrel roll, which gives you a brief shield from enemy attacks. The traditional design of the Gamecube pad is actually more comfortable than the N64’s due to the button layout, specifically the control stick’s placement.
Like every other Virtual Console title, Star Fox 64 has not been treated to any upgrades. The direct port isn’t too disappointing in this case, since online support wouldn’t have mattered in what is largely a single-player experience. Multiplayer is still included, which is a bonus once you unlock the ability to choose between battling on foot or in the Landmaster. The biggest downside to this port is the lack of rumble feature, again due to conversion limitations. Star Fox 64 was the first game to feature the Rumble Pak to make a gamer feel like he or she was part of the action, and it’s not quite the same without it.
Star Fox 64’s mission-by-mission approach appeals to both the casual and hardcore gamer. You can go back to replay missions at any time after you have beaten them, competing for the medals you may have missed on the first try. There are various paths to story mode, too, which opens a realm of opportunities for those looking for something more than a standard, linear approach. There is also an unlockable expert mode to complete, as well.
The 411
Star Fox 64 is yet another first-party Nintendo 64 title that has held its own in the test of time. The second game in the series surpasses the original SNES title as well as its successors on the Gamecube and Nintendo DS. The Virtual Console version is a nice addition to any collection, but if you still have a working Nintendo 64 and a Rumble Pak, stick with that combination. For those who have since discarded the 64-bit machine and newer gamers who never got to experience Star Fox 64 the first time around, it should be on your priority purchases list.
Graphics
7.0
Character models are standard Nintendo 64: blocky and unpolished. The overall design of the levels and crafts is still unique and original, though.
Gameplay
7.5
Lack of the Rumble function hurts the overall experience, but the game’s controls are noticeably easier to grasp with a Gamecube controller.
Sound
6.0
The background music reflects the intensity of the game’s missions, but the wingmen’s repeated, generic banter can get on your nerves after a few levels.
Lasting Appeal
8.0
Multiple paths in story mode, an unlockable expert mode, and multiplayer battles will keep you intrigued for a while. The ability to jump into already-completed missions individually is nice, too.
Fun Factor
8.5
Even if you’re not a fan of dogfighting, this game will likely keep you interested thanks to its unique style and influx of action.
