The console that gave birth to modern 3D games

In 1996, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo 64 (N64) console, which marked one of the biggest turning points in the history of video games. Although it had to contend with strong competition from the original Sony PlayStation and later the Sega Saturn, it offered gamers something completely new – superior 3D graphics, an analog gamepad and the ability to play with four players without additional equipment. Many elements that we take for granted today were first established in wider use with the N64.

The biggest revolution was brought about by the unusual three-sided game board. It was the first mass-produced controller with an analog game button, which allowed for much more precise movement in three-dimensional worlds. In addition, Nintendo introduced accessories such as the Rumble Pak, which vibrated for the first time to allow the player to feel feedback while playing. Today, such a function is standard on practically all gaming consoles.

Games were also key to the success of the console. Super Mario 64 is considered one of the most influential video games of all time, as it established the rules of movement and control in three-dimensional environments. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time introduced the Z-targeting system, which is still used by many action games today. Among the biggest hits are GoldenEye 007, Mario Kart 64, Star Fox 64 and Banjo-Kazooie, which significantly marked the development of various gaming genres.

But Nintendo also made a decision that later turned out to be a double-edged sword. Instead of the cheaper CD-ROM optical media, he insisted on cartridges. These allowed significantly faster loading of games and greater resistance to piracy, but they were more expensive to manufacture and had much less space for data. This is why many big publishers, including Square, Capcom and Konami, preferred to develop their biggest projects for the PlayStation, which used cheaper and larger discs.

Although the Nintendo 64 fell behind the PlayStation in terms of sales, its influence on the industry remains tremendous. The analog game button, vibration response, four gaming places and many design solutions of modern 3D games have their roots in this console. Three decades later, the N64 remains one of the most revered gaming platforms of all time, with many of its titles still regularly appearing on lists of the best video games of all time.

Source: Nintendo

AI translated