The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The N64 provided the platform for one of the most celebrated computer games of all time -- "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time." This action-adventure game marked a step-up for in-game graphics, storyline, music and general game play with its innovative controls. The player controls Link, who must save Princess Zelda, restore order in Hyrule and defeat the evil Gannondorf by using a portal to go back and forth through time. A regular feature on greatest-game-of-all-time lists, "Ocarina of Time" really is a must for any gamer. The game has a near-perfect 99 out of 100 score at Metacritic.
Super Mario 64
Nintendo's most enduring character, Mario, got the 3D treatment in "Super Mario 64," a genre-defining platform game. No longer restricted to two dimensions, players guide Mario through the Princess' castle and the various worlds contained within. The freedom to explore the castle and different worlds ensure that there is no set order in which to accomplish Mario's goals, but it all leads to a showdown with his arch-nemesis, Bowser, who has captured Princess Peach once again.
Goldeneye 007
Although "Goldeneye 007" borrowed from many first-person shooters preceding it, the game helped to define the modern shoot-'em-up game and the innovative control system has been emulated by almost every first-person shooter since. The game is loosely based on the James Bond film of the same title, but where "Goldeneye" really shines is in the multiplayer mode. There are a variety of complex levels, weapons, characters and game modes from which to choose, giving the game a lifespan beyond the story mode.
Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon
Definitely a contender for the most bizarre game on the N64, "Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon" is a game in which the player switches between controlling a ninja, his overweight friend and a robot or two. The quirky plot involves an evil gang of theater-enthusiasts who plot to turn Japan into one great big stage for one of their productions, and you must stop them and save the world. The memorable music, genuinely hilarious dialogue and mind-blowing story will keep you entertained for days.
Star Wars Episode I Racer
While "Mario Kart 64" brought back the familiar characters and locales from the Super Mario franchise, "Star Wars Episode I Racer" brought pod racing to the N64. Inspired by the film of the same title, "Star Wars Episode I Racer" is a high-speed racer that features courses based on both the film and the "Star Wars" series in general. The player can choose from different racers from the film, and money and points earned from winning races gives the players the chance to upgrade and repair their pod racer.