The Nintendo 64 (N64) was a iconic gaming console that brought us some of the most memorable and beloved games of all time. For wrestling fans, the N64 was a haven, with a plethora of wrestling games that allowed us to step into the ring and become our favorite wrestlers. In this article, we'll take a look at the 5 best wrestling games for the N64, and explore what made them so great.
Wrestling games were a staple of the N64, with many titles being released throughout the console's lifespan. From the WWF (now WWE) to WCW, and even some more obscure promotions, there was a wrestling game for everyone on the N64. But, which ones were the best? Let's dive in and find out.
The Importance of Wrestling Games on the N64
Before we get into the list, it's worth talking about why wrestling games were so important on the N64. The console was known for its multiplayer capabilities, and wrestling games were some of the best examples of this. Gathering around the TV with friends and family to play wrestling games was a staple of many gaming sessions. The N64's controller, with its innovative analog stick, also made it well-suited for the complex movements and actions required in wrestling games.
Additionally, the N64 was the perfect platform for wrestling games due to its 3D capabilities. For the first time, players could experience the thrill of wrestling in a fully 3D environment, with characters and arenas that looked and felt like the real thing.
The Top 5 Wrestling Games for N64
So, without further ado, let's get into the top 5 wrestling games for the N64.
1. WWF No Mercy
Released in 2000, WWF No Mercy is widely considered one of the best wrestling games of all time, let alone on the N64. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment, the game featured a massive roster of WWF superstars, including Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and Triple H.
The gameplay was also top-notch, with a variety of modes to play through, including a championship mode, a versus mode, and a create-a-wrestler mode. The game's controls were also incredibly intuitive, making it easy for players to pick up and play.
Why it's so great:
- Huge roster of WWF superstars
- Variety of game modes
- Intuitive controls
- Create-a-wrestler mode was incredibly deep
2. WCW/nWo Revenge
Released in 1998, WCW/nWo Revenge was one of the first wrestling games to really showcase the N64's capabilities. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment, the game featured a large roster of WCW and nWo wrestlers, including Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, and Randy Savage.
The gameplay was also praised for its realism, with a focus on strategy and technique over button-mashing. The game also featured a variety of modes, including a championship mode and a versus mode.
Why it's so great:
- Large roster of WCW and nWo wrestlers
- Realistic gameplay
- Variety of game modes
- Graphics were impressive for its time
3. WWF WrestleMania 2000
Released in 1999, WWF WrestleMania 2000 was the follow-up to WWF No Mercy, and built upon the success of its predecessor. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment, the game featured an even larger roster of WWF superstars, including Mankind, The Undertaker, and Kane.
The gameplay was also improved, with new moves and animations added to the game. The game also featured a variety of modes, including a championship mode and a versus mode.
Why it's so great:
- Large roster of WWF superstars
- Improved gameplay
- Variety of game modes
- Create-a-wrestler mode was still incredibly deep
4. WWF Attitude
Released in 1999, WWF Attitude was a more arcade-like take on the wrestling genre. Developed by Acclaim Sports, the game featured a large roster of WWF superstars, including Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and Triple H.
The gameplay was fast-paced and action-packed, with a focus on high-flying moves and over-the-top action. The game also featured a variety of modes, including a championship mode and a versus mode.
Why it's so great:
- Fast-paced gameplay
- Large roster of WWF superstars
- Variety of game modes
- Arcade-like feel was a nice change of pace
5. WCW Backstage Assault
Released in 2000, WCW Backstage Assault was a more hardcore take on the wrestling genre. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment, the game featured a large roster of WCW wrestlers, including Sting, Diamond Dallas Page, and Scott Steiner.
The gameplay was also more hardcore, with a focus on brutal moves and intense action. The game also featured a variety of modes, including a championship mode and a versus mode.
Why it's so great:
- Hardcore gameplay
- Large roster of WCW wrestlers
- Variety of game modes
- Brutal moves and intense action
Get Ready to Rumble!
There you have it, folks! The top 5 wrestling games for the N64. Whether you're a fan of the WWF or WCW, there's something for everyone on this list. So, grab your controller, gather your friends, and get ready to rumble!
Leave a comment below and let us know which wrestling game was your favorite on the N64!
What was the best-selling wrestling game on the N64?
+The best-selling wrestling game on the N64 was WWF No Mercy.
Which wrestling game had the largest roster on the N64?
+WWF No Mercy had the largest roster on the N64, featuring over 60 WWF superstars.
Was WCW/nWo Revenge the first wrestling game on the N64?
+No, WCW vs. nWo: World Tour was the first wrestling game on the N64, released in 1997.