The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is the strongest all-around pick for a landmark solo N64 action adventure, while GoldenEye 007 remains the clear choice for split-screen competition.
Star Fox 64 is ideal for short, replayable arcade sessions, and Super Mario 64 or Banjo-Kazooie suit players who prefer exploration-driven platform action.
For buyers, the best choice depends less on a universal ranking and more on whether you want a solo campaign, a couch multiplayer cartridge, or a display-worthy collectible.
Original cartridges can be appealing, but condition, authenticity, controller quality, and bundle value matter more than a high asking price. The N64 launched in North America in 1996 with cartridges, and its analog-stick controller helped define how many of these 3D games feel.
If you are not committed to physical collecting, legal modern-access options may be worth checking before buying older hardware.
At a Glance
- Best solo adventure: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time blends action combat, exploration, puzzles, and item-based progression.
- Best couch multiplayer choice: GoldenEye 007 offers a single-player campaign plus split-screen multiplayer modes.
- Best for shorter replayable sessions: Star Fox 64 uses branching routes, multiple vehicles, and on-rails shooting action.
| Game | Style | Players | Learning Curve | Replay Value | Physical-Copy Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time | Action-adventure | Solo | Moderate | Exploration and progression | Choose condition based on whether you want to play or collect |
| Super Mario 64 | 3D platform-action | Solo | Accessible, with precision challenges | Open-ended objectives | Good fit for a first physical N64 library |
| GoldenEye 007 | First-person action | Solo and split-screen multiplayer | Varies by player familiarity | Mission variety and local sessions | Check controller availability before buying |
| Star Fox 64 | On-rails action shooter | Solo | Easy to start | Branching routes and score-driven runs | Useful for buyers who want quick play sessions |
| Banjo-Kazooie | Exploration platform-action | Solo | Moderate | Collectibles and character abilities | Consider boxed condition only if collecting is a priority |
The Quick Picks for N64 Action Fans
The best N64 action game is the one that matches your time, play style, and hardware setup. The system supports up to four controllers without a separate multitap, which makes it especially practical for local multiplayer. For solo players, the strongest choices are usually adventure or platform-action games; for groups, controller condition can matter as much as the cartridge itself.
Best for a Landmark Solo Adventure: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Ocarina of Time is the most balanced starting point for someone who wants action combat, exploration, puzzle-solving, and item-based progression in one game. It is a natural physical-cartridge choice for a player building a small, focused N64 collection. If you are buying a used copy, assess the cartridge shell, label, pins, and save behavior instead of assuming the most expensive listing is the safest one.
Best for Fast Arcade-Style Action: Star Fox 64
Star Fox 64 is a better match for players who want action without committing to a long exploration-heavy session. Its on-rails shooting structure, branching mission routes, and multiple vehicles give repeat runs a different purpose. It may be the more practical pick for a gift buyer who knows the recipient enjoys quick, score-focused play, but still compare cartridge condition and seller details before choosing a listing.
Best for Local Competitive Play: GoldenEye 007
GoldenEye 007 combines a single-player campaign with split-screen multiplayer modes, making it the most direct pick for a game night. The N64 can connect four controllers directly, but worn analog sticks can affect the experience. A cartridge bundle can be convenient, yet buyers should check whether the included controllers are functional rather than treating a bundled console as automatically better value.
Best for Exploration-Focused Platform Action: Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie
Super Mario 64 is widely recognized as an influential 3D platform-action game, with movement and open-ended objectives at its center. Banjo-Kazooie leans into exploration, collectible objectives, and character abilities. Choose Mario for precision movement and direct platforming, or Banjo-Kazooie for a more relaxed collectible-driven adventure.
Compare the Top N64 Action Experiences Before You Buy
Genre, Pace, Difficulty, and Replay Value
Ocarina of Time works best when you want a sustained action-adventure. Super Mario 64 rewards repeated attempts at movement challenges and objectives. Star Fox 64 is built for revisiting routes, while GoldenEye 007 can shift from solo missions to competitive local sessions. Banjo-Kazooie is the calmer option for players who enjoy searching areas and expanding character abilities.
Solo Campaign Versus Split-Screen Multiplayer
For a single-player library, start with Ocarina of Time, Super Mario 64, or Banjo-Kazooie. For a shared living-room setup, GoldenEye 007 has the clearest multiplayer appeal. Before purchasing for a group, count your available controllers and inspect each analog stick; the N64 controller’s analog input shaped the design of many of these games.
Loose Cartridge, Boxed Copy, or Legal Modern-Access Option
A loose cartridge can make sense when playing is the priority. A complete-in-box copy is more relevant when display condition and collecting value matter to you. Availability through official digital services, subscription libraries, or legal re-releases can change, so verify current options before deciding that original hardware is necessary.
Standout Games and What Each One Does Best
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Action-Adventure Progression
This is the best fit for players who want a clear sense of forward progress through combat, exploration, puzzles, and items. It is not simply an action game; its appeal comes from how those elements work together.
Super Mario 64 for Precision Movement and Open-Ended Objectives
Super Mario 64 is a strong choice for players who want to learn a 3D movement system and explore objectives at their own pace. Its appeal is especially tied to the N64 analog stick, so controller quality deserves attention.
Star Fox 64 for Replayable Routes and Score-Driven Runs
Star Fox 64 is suited to players who like immediate action and repeatable runs. The branching routes provide a reason to revisit the game without requiring the same type of long-form commitment as an adventure title.
GoldenEye 007 for Mission Variety and Couch Multiplayer
GoldenEye 007 is the flexible choice because it includes both campaign play and split-screen modes. It is especially worthwhile when you already have multiple usable controllers or are comparing a console-and-controller bundle.
Banjo-Kazooie for Relaxed Exploration and Collectible-Driven Action
Banjo-Kazooie is for players who enjoy exploring, gathering objectives, and using character abilities rather than rushing through arcade-style stages. It is a sensible companion to a more action-heavy cartridge such as Star Fox 64.
Avoid Common Retro Gaming Purchase Mistakes
Check Cartridge Labels, Pins, Shell Condition, and Save Behavior
Inspect photos and descriptions carefully. Check for a clean shell, a label that is not obviously damaged, and cartridge pins that appear properly maintained. Ask about save behavior when relevant, and remember that each used cartridge must be assessed individually.
Factor in Controller Analog-Stick Condition and Expansion Accessories
A game cartridge is only part of the setup. The original console supports four controllers without a multitap, but each controller should be evaluated for analog-stick wear. If a listing includes accessories, confirm compatibility and condition rather than treating extras as automatic value.
Do Not Assume a Higher Asking Price Means a Better Game for Your Preferences
Collector prices can reflect rarity, box condition, authenticity, or seller expectations. Those factors do not automatically make a title more enjoyable for a first-time player. A well-kept loose cartridge may be the better purchase if your goal is simply to play.
Choose by Your Play Situation
For a First-Time N64 Owner
Start with Super Mario 64 for platform-action or Ocarina of Time for a broader action-adventure. Both show why the system’s analog-stick design mattered for 3D games.
For a Multiplayer Game Night
Choose GoldenEye 007, then prioritize controller count and analog-stick condition. The console can handle four controllers directly, which keeps the setup simple.
For Collectors Building a Display Shelf
Decide whether you value a loose cartridge, a boxed copy, or a complete presentation before shopping. Condition and authenticity should lead the decision, not just the highest listed price.
For Players Who Want Shorter, Replayable Sessions
Choose Star Fox 64. Its arcade-style format and branching mission routes make it the most natural option when play time is limited.
Selection Criteria and Comparison Summary
Choose Ocarina of Time for a substantial solo action-adventure, GoldenEye 007 for local competitive play, Star Fox 64 for repeatable action, and Super Mario 64 or Banjo-Kazooie for exploration-led platforming. Before buying, check cartridge authenticity, shell and pin condition, save behavior, controller analog-stick quality, and whether a loose or boxed copy actually fits your goal. Compare current cartridge condition and bundle value before buying. For official access details or current hardware compatibility information, check the relevant product or service page.
In Closing
The N64’s best action games are not interchangeable classics. Each one serves a different kind of player, from the long-form adventure fan to the group looking for split-screen competition. Buying wisely means matching the game to your play situation and checking used hardware carefully. A lower-cost play-focused copy can be more satisfying than a premium collectible you are afraid to use.
Useful Things to Know
1. The Nintendo 64 launched in North America in 1996 and uses cartridges rather than optical discs.
2. The original console supports up to four controllers without a separate multitap accessory.
3. Cartridge, console, controller, and boxed-copy prices can vary by region, condition, authenticity, and seller.
4. Legal re-release and subscription availability can change over time.
Important Notes
There is no single best choice for every buyer. Used cartridge condition, battery-save behavior, controller wear, reproduction cartridges, and current legal access options require individual verification. This comparison focuses on the listed games and their established play styles, not on fixed market prices or guaranteed collector value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the best Nintendo 64 action game for a first-time player?
A1. Super Mario 64 is a strong first choice for approachable 3D platform-action, while The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is better for someone who wants action combat, exploration, puzzles, and progression. The better pick depends on whether you prefer platforming or adventure.
Q2. Are original N64 cartridges worth buying, or should I use legal modern re-releases?
A2. Original cartridges are worthwhile if you value original hardware, collecting, or a physical library. Legal modern-access options can be more practical if you mainly want to play. Check current official availability, then compare cartridge condition and total hardware needs before deciding.
Q3. Which N64 action games are best for local multiplayer, and what accessories do I need?
A3. GoldenEye 007 is the clearest choice from this list because it includes split-screen multiplayer modes. The original N64 supports up to four controllers without a separate multitap, but inspect controller analog sticks and overall condition before planning a multiplayer session.
