F-Zero (SNES) Review by Phoenix
Released back in 1990, F-Zero was one of the premiere titles for the Famicom entertainment system. Newly introduced was Mode 7(the graphics engine) which was praised by critics and hailed as the very first 3D video game. It was an inspiration that would spawn many video games, such as the infamous, Top Gear. Sadly, the game never received much attention with blockbuster hits that came soon after, as Nintendos new console was on the rise to success.
Taking place in the distant future, the rich and powerful grow bored of their spoiled everyday lifestyle, and seek out a new form of entertainment. And thus F-Zero was born, and came countless individuals entering the contest, each with a personal reason for risking their lives. It's a story about pride, revenge and money, but in the end they were all puppets in a sick game of NASCAR.
F-Zero is a single player title, which has always struck me as a bit odd, for a game of this calibre. The game begins with a simple title screen, along with two modes of gameplay, which include Grand Prix, Practice and an extra selection for viewing records. Grand Prix consists of four leagues and three difficulty settings. There are four characters to choose from which include famed bounty hunter Captain Falcon, Samurai Goroh, Dr. Stewart and the very mysterious, Pico. Each character has their own signature machine along with very diverse statistics.
The gameplay is where this title really shines, as it shows off in every aspect. Players will begin and go head to head against three main rivals, and countless other racers that make up a sum of thirty. Right from the start, the game emanates such realism and captivates you, only fifteen seconds in. Stages are dark and mysterious, much like a cyber-punk film genre. At times, even the elements will come into play, and threaten your victory, such as my personal favorite, Death Wind. Other obstacles include: land mines, magnetic railing, and “suicide machines” on the verge of destruction. Luckily, there is a recovery zone that will replenish your machine from any damage it has endured.
Also, the games music score really adds to the visuals and fits very well with each individual track. It is a score that is heavily influenced by musical genres such as Industrial, Ambient and Synthpop, but for those of you who know nothing about music it's just really awesome. Favored by fans are stand-out tracks: Mute City, Big Blue, & Port Town. If you're a person that digs a catchy tune then you're in luck, because these somehow never seem to get old.
All in all, this little gem deserves to be retold amongst heyday gamers and old-school fans alike. It's a title that meets near perfection, unlike games that are thrown together with the speed of light. So, if you have a Nintendo Wii and a few spare game points then don't miss out on a timeless classic, and the fastest racer in the galaxy!
4.5 out of 10