Games That Will Still Amaze You Today: Mario Kart 64

Ah, Nintendo 64. For many, their first look at 3D graphics. When we look back at this gem of a console, there's so many games that defined it. It had a great lineup that satisfied any type of gamer. Shooters, arcade style, RPG, strategy, sports, and...racing. I don't know about you, but when I think about the racing genre on the Nintendo 64, the first game that will always come to mind is Mario Kart 64. Released in the US and Europe in 1997, and much later on Nintendo DS and as a download for the Nintendo Wii, Mario Kart 64 brought an addictive, fun experience that many games today fail to match. When you were home with a few friends and had a few minutes to spare, this was the game that you would go to. There's nothing better than passing your friend as he/she spins out over a banana peel. Life was simple back then, huh? 

As the first game in the Mario Kart series to feature 3D graphics, fans were very happy to see its new look. Sure, it may not have been the best looking game on the console, but it looked just fine for what its worth. The real joy in this classic is in the gameplay. When you think about it, the mechanics are simple. Try to pass others by using a set of power ups and usable items that you acquire through boxes spread all along the racing tracks. The way Nintendo was able to put this gameplay to use was what made Mario Kart 64 shine and become the addictive game that it still is today. Although I have long since gotten over that addiction, it still offers great fun and brings you back to old times to pop in that cartridge.

Many games developers forget today that gameplay is still the most important aspect of the game. We see technical masterpieces being released month after month of the PS3, 360, and PC, but do we ever become truly addicted to an offline game anymore? No. Today it's all about a 6-hour campaign that leads into an online experience. And although I can have a good time playing countless hours on Halo 3 and Killzone 2 listening to foreign bickering that I cannot understand whatsoever, it's just not the same. Regardless, I would love to see more games in the future that can hook gamers everywhere like Mario Kart 64 was able to back in 1997.