Wave Race 64: Retro Review

In August of 2022, “Wave Race 64” joined the playable titles on Nintendo 64 Online for the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. First seeing release as one of the initial two launch titles for the Nintendo 64 in 1996 alongside “Super Mario 64,” the game is another solid entry among the many racing games on the N64.

The game features players racing on jet skis (with the game even being sponsored by Kawasaki), and the fluid physics were revolutionary upon the original Nintendo 64 release of the game. While the learning curve of the controls and each racetrack may be a bit steeper than fellow N64 racing titles such as “Mario Kart 64,” the game still marks a satisfying experience to revisit among longtime fans.

While the visuals and design have admittedly aged since the original release of the game, it still marks a worthwhile inclusion among the other racing games on the N64 Online service (a Nintendo Direct presentation this past September revealed that “Pilotwings 64” and “Excitebike 64” will be joining the lineup in the near future).

Overall, “Wave Race 64” has made a splash on Nintendo 64 Online, an easy recommendation to join the existing racing games on the service for some wet and wild fun.

Publisher: Nintendo

Developer: Nintendo EAD

Platform: Nintendo 64 Online for Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack (Originally released on Nintendo 64)

ESRB Rating: E