When looking at Star Fox 64 3DS, the question isn’t “is it good?” because we all know how awesome Star Fox 64 was. It still holds up against games today, in fact few have even come close to the gameplay experience it provides. The question is, does this handheld rendition provide enough replay value to warrant its $40 price tag? Let’s find out.
The first of the three modes Star Fox has to offer is Story mode. You have the choice of 3DS mode and Nintendo 64 mode. In 3DS mode, friendly fire is turned off, you take less damage, and you can use the new Gyro controls. After trying over and over, I find the gyro controls over sensitive and when moving so much you can’t possibly aim correctly with how fast paced the game is, rendering it unplayable. While I appreciate Nintendo trying something new, this feature is not only unnecessary, it’s frankly a waste of the 3DS technology. This is where the Nintendo 64 Mode comes in, everything is exactly as it should be, LEFT ALONE. Same difficulty, same damage, and friendly fire intact; good old fashioned Star Fox 64.
The second option you get is time trial mode, for those of you who want that perfect score, followed by Multiplayer mode. Multiplayer mode is quite interesting in that all the original maps and game options are intact, and you only need the one cartridge to play them. Yes, you will need multiple 3DS systems of course, but it’s a nice touch and runs beautifully. The only downside is like the original, the multiplayer’s fun factor dies out fairly quickly compared to its single player. So don’t expect any miracles here. (however having a picture taken of you using the facing camera to gauge your reaction when you die is a nice touch)
In terms of the updated graphics, Star Fox has never looked so good. Textures and water effects look fantastic, bosses look much more detailed, and for the most part everything runs very smooth. However there are some levels that have some slow down, like Aquas and Zones. On this generation of hardware, this should easily be avoided. The tank levels feel off as well, but I think that’s mainly because the Landmaster is still just plain awful. Finally, I’m not sure if this is a good thing or a bad thing, but they re-voiced all the characters, so yes they sound much clearer, however they have the same awkward flat tone all the time. The ending scene is even MORE awkward then it was before; it’s so bad it’s hilarious.
For the record, I love Star Fox, I’m still waiting for a true sequel that is just like Star fox 64. The gameplay still holds up today and overall I still get that warm nostalgic feeling inside when I play this. However many shortcomings and lack of many real additions keep this from being something great. Those of you who are like me and just want a portable way of playing Star Fox are going to buy this regardless of any review. Those of you who are unsure or never played the original, give Star Fox 64 3DS a rent, it deserves at least that much.
Overall Score: 7.0 GG’s
