Top 200 best-selling Nintendo 64 games contain some surprising revelations

As I scrolled through the list of top 200 best-selling Nintendo 64 games, I couldn't help but notice the unexpected names scattered amidst the more obvious choices. It's a reminder that even the most influential consoles have their share of hidden gems. According to Circana's Mat Piscatella, the Nintendo 64's 30th anniversary has brought to light some surprising revelations about the console's most popular games.

The list, which encompasses over half of the entire Nintendo 64 library (a total of 388 games), has Super Mario 64 taking the top spot, a position that's hardly surprising given its status as a launch title and a game that largely defined the system. However, it's the games that follow that offer a more nuanced view of the Nintendo 64's gaming landscape.

Tucked away in the lower ranks of the list are games like Powerpuff Girls: Chemical Xtraction, South Park: Chef's Luv Shack, and the underrated Snowboard Kids. These titles might not be as well-known as some of the more popular games on the list, but they represent a significant portion of the Nintendo 64's library. It's evidence of the console's wide range of offerings, from family-friendly cartoons to edgy comedies.

GoldenEye 007, on the other hand, takes the second spot, a position that's well-deserved given its influence on the first-person shooter genre. The game's success can be attributed to its innovative multiplayer mode and engaging single-player campaign.

The presence of three Star Wars titles within the top 20 is hardly surprising, given the franchise's massive following and the Special Editions that were released during the Nintendo 64's lifetime. Shadows Of The Empire, Episode 1: Racer, and Rogue Squadron all made the cut, evidence of the franchise's enduring popularity.

Banjo-Kazooie, a game that's widely regarded as one of the best platformers of all time, finds itself at number 15. While it's not entirely unexpected, given the game's somewhat divisive reception at the time of its release, it's still a notable omission from the top 10.

Top 20 Nintendo 64 Games in the US (Ranked by Unit Sales)

• 1. Super Mario 64
• 2. GoldenEye 007
• 3. Mario Kart 64
• 4. The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time
• 5. Super Smash Bros.
• 6. Pokémon Stadium
• 7. Diddy Kong Racing
• 8. Star Fox
• 9. Donkey Kong 64
• 10. Pokémon Snap
• 11. Shadows Of The Empire
• 12. Super Mario RPG
• 13. The Legend Of Zelda: Majora's Mask
• 14. F-Zero X
• 15. Banjo-Kazooie
• 16. Episode 1: Racer
• 17. The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time (Director's Cut)
• 18. Conker's Bad Fur Day
• 19. Rogue Squadron
• 20. Jet Force Gemini

The Nintendo 64's influence can still be felt today, with many of its games remaining beloved classics. As I delved deeper into the list, it became clear that the console's impact extends beyond the top 10. The games that follow offer a glimpse into the console's wide range of offerings and its enduring popularity.

The Nintendo 64's 30th anniversary is a reminder that even the most influential consoles have their share of hidden gems. As we look to the future, it's clear that the console's legacy will continue to be felt.