Something barely seen in today's gaming
environment are the realistic racing games. Titles that are devoid of rocket
launchers and hyper plasma cannons are a thing of the past. Just looking
attentively at the release list for the next generation consoles makes that all
too apparent. However, in the quiet beginnings of the classic 64 bit era was
Wave Race 64, a serene and submerged Jet Ski racer devoid of the flashy
gimmicks and the overrated action attachment. Despite its simplistic premise,
it was known for brilliantly responsive controls and mechanics that make it feel
like you are right on the ocean front. Now that it is on the Virtual Console,
the chance for some of you young-ins to take on this classic is here. And
though it may not be a recognizable choice for parties, there is enough here
for any gamer to wrap their fingers around.
Reflecting back, I can easily recall joy-riding the stand-up vehicles around on
the waters, with resplendent three dimensional visuals that I had never seen
before. Weaving my character in and out and every which way, to avoid the numerous
buoys and menacing wave patterns of Marine Fortress, all the while, not having
to worry about getting hit with a projectile from behind or running out of
fuel. Just something that I could enjoy on a weekend afternoon, to escape the
constant turmoil of the school days. The charm can not only be felt from the
freedom, but also the perfectly formulated play modes the game provides.
Several distinct stage circuits and
options define what Wave Race 64 is all about and each has traits that make
them unique. Encompassing virtually every realm in the watery paradise is the
Championship mode, each with the recallable: easy, normal, and expert
difficulty settings. You have four character choices, ranging from the above
average R. Hayami to the absolutely terrible D. Mariner. Which brings me to
point out one ongoing detriment; there are not enough good drivers. Each one of
these four has something that makes them slightly more efficient; whether it is
better handling, faster speed, or stronger durability. Unfortunately, only one
person simply does it better than everyone else, M. Jeter. No, not Derek Jeter,
but then again it would have been nice to have a bit more of a selection. With
minor quirks aside, the beautiful levels and balanced challenge all build to
form a remarkably satisfying formula.
There are nearly ten different environments that you will be driving through,
from foggy lakes to rough oceans. It is these weather effects that will make
the racing circuits difficult, as you try to defeat the three other
participants. This is done by way of a Mario Kart style point system, and you
will need a certain number of points, per round, to advance. Aside from the
traditional standard of staying ahead of your opponents, there is also the
factor of flag sweeping. Throughout the course there are several markers set
up, that you will have to follow; be it staying to the left or the right of
each one. Only a few mistakes are permitted before you can go swim with the
dolphins at the bottom of the deep.
Now, despite the obvious lack of weapon arrays, you do possess the ability to
gain a quick advantage during races. Speed and trick boost icons are available
to help you upgrade your vehicle into a star studded ass kicker. While it is
not really necessary to show off in the racing competition, I found it fun just
rubbing it in their faces. The best way to do this though, is test running the
one feature that encompasses all of the charm in this title, the Stunt mode.
Though there is not an enormous list of pointless tricks to be found as in many
snowboarding titles; Wave Race 64 accomplishes it well by hitting all of the
basics flawlessly. Whether it is back-flipping after hitting an enormous wave
or barrel rolling through that hovering ring, there is something satisfying in seeing
that score continue to rise. Around twenty options are laid out on the table
for you to hit, and the excellent control scheme will allow you to perform them
without frustration. This also applies when using the Wii's classic controller.
Oh, and just like every single solitary racer in existence, there is a time
trial mode too. So, you can rack up that unbeatable time and post it on the
internet for others to drool at.
Even though it is a very entertaining
play while home alone, there is a reason I could not get anyone to play this
little number at parties when I was younger -- the multi-player is fairly poor.
This accusation derives from the fact that the game only sports a two player
mode. Making things worse, you can only battle it out in a traditional race
format. Had a few more choices been available, such as; a multi-man stunt
feature or an allowance of four players, the replay value could have
skyrocketed. It is obvious this was probably cut out due to time constraints,
but with implementation, maybe my friends could have played something aside
from Goldeneye once in a while.
Alongside the wonderfully executed game-play, reside some of the most enjoyable
graphic effects seen from the N64 days. From the beautifully rendered sunsets
to the realistic wave patterns, Wave Race 64 is definitely a gamebody models
don't help either. The vehicles can also create a little clipping sometimes
when they hit the water which, at times, will make you feel like you are riding
a hover bike. Nonetheless, there is just so much to absorb from the
surroundings that I can safely say the visuals are still stunning to this day.
The sound department does not disappoint either, with realistic weather sounds
and jazzy music themes. All which build to a climax that makes you believe you
are right on the water, but you know, without the chilling winds and whiplash.
I had definitely spent enough time on this game back in 1996 that I couldn't
wait for it to be announced on the Wii; so many hours riding along the
shorelines of Sunset Bay and the wide stretches of Twilight City. Ah, good
times, good times indeed. Though it has its share of flaws, as in a limited
character selection and a poor multi-player element, the single experience all
but makes up for it. Beautiful environments, addicting game modes, balanced
difficulty settings, and smooth controls all sum up what Wave Race 64 has to
offer. So for only 1000 points, be sure to pick it up today.