Gaming consoles have come a long way, and Nintendo 64 is one of the oldest Nintendo consoles. It was released in 1996 as a successor to Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The console featured groundbreaking 3D graphics, an innovative controller design, and an impressive game library. All these gave it a competitive edge against Sega Saturn, the main competitor. It had a massive collection of titles across all genres. Its sports library was rich with impressive titles full of depth, beauty, and entertaining commentary. Although its sports collection cannot measure up to today’s sports games in terms of visuals, gameplay, and setup, they are still hailed for their special moves, entertainment, and varied characters.
Was Nintendo 64 Known for Sports Games?
Sports video games have been in existence for a long time. When Nintendo 64 was released, it offered a lot of adventure games. Most classics we enjoy today, like Legend of Zelda and Super Mario 64, can be traced back to the console. Although it had successful sports titles, they were largely overshadowed by popular adventure and action collections. This guide will take you back on memory lane with some of the best Nintendo 64 Sports games worth your time.
10. Ready 2 Rumble Boxing: Round 2
Ready 2 Rumble Boxing: Round 2 is a sequel to the original Ready 2 Rumble Boxing game with improved features. It has a similar gameplay to its predecessor, but the Rumble levels are upgraded to three, and they build up after each other. When a player overcomes an opponent, the words Rumble appear on his side of the screen. The formation of the words activates a powerful combo that acts as a weapon to knock out the opponent.
If the player attains the third rumble level, the words emit smoke that completely blows the opponent out of the rig to give the player victory. With the new mini-games and rumble modes, you can increase speed and save power for the knockout. The innovative gameplay, better graphics, and cool sound effects make it a game you want to play over and over again.
- Innovative gameplay
- Improved graphics from its predecessor
- Excellent sound effects
- New mini-games and rumble modes
- Activate powerful combos to knock out opponents
9. NFL Blitz 2001
NFL Blitz 2001 is a classic video game with arcade-style gameplay, exaggerated tackles, and over-the-top animations. It offers new additions, stadiums, improved commentary, and an instant replay feature. It has an exciting new look with awesome celebrations and impressive sound. Its different modes allow players of all levels to get a more pure football experience. NFL Blitz 2001 supports four players to allow two-two or one-two match-ups.
All the NFL teams from the previous games return, and the player can control the teams, customize their teams and earn Blitz points which can be used to unlock new stadiums and bonus content. There are three new mini-games, each with unique gameplay, making the game more enjoyable.
The game has an updated feature that tracks season progress for multiple players, making it possible for friends to compete together and aim for Super Bowl glory. As you progress, NFL Blitz 2001 keeps track of various statistics, recording 11-game and nine-season stats, such as first downs, fumbles, fourth down conversions, season passing yards, return yards, and sacks. The game also records win/loss statistics and percentages, as expected, but it does not include individual player statistics.
- Arcade-style gameplay
- Exaggerated tackles and over-the-top animations
- Features new additions, stadiums, and improved commentary
- Instant replay feature
- Players can control the teams and customize their teams
8. PGA European Tour
PGA European Tour is a golf video game with an authentic, sophisticated feel and a European touch. The series highlights the courses from the European Tour. It has improved graphics and exciting commentary. You will enjoy a true golf simulation, going head-to-head with PGA stars on European courses.
PGA European Tour gives players an experience of the best golf courses. Players can control shots and challenge legends. The game has a practice mode that allows you to hone your skill. You start as an amateur and can qualify for a tour if you improve your skills. This game has four main golf courses with realistic gameplay and features. That aside, the game has some glitches, which some gamers find frustrating. However, despite the few hitches, this remains a celebrated title for Nintendo 64.
- Features the courses from the PGA European Tour
- Has a practice mode that allows you to hone your skills
- Four main golf courses with realistic gameplay and features
- Go head-to-head with PGA stars
7. NFL QB Club 2001
NFL QB Club 2001 is a video game that allows you to create and customize your players, including their appearance, attributes, and abilities. You can also sign on new players and free agents. The game even has a full NFL simulation with teams from the three previous titles.
Players can compete in various game modes, including Exhibition, Season, Practice & Pro Bowl, and enjoy a game speed maximized for the console. Players can bust through the defense to the score line with the All-new Shoulder Charge feature. The passing scheme is simplified, which allows players to spot their receivers through automatic light-ups. The game supports up to four players allowing gameplay against human opponents in one-one, two-two, and one-two matchups.
- Features full NFL simulation with teams from the three previous titles
- Create and customize your players, including their appearance, attributes, and abilities
- Sign on new players and free agents
- Compete in Exhibition, Season, Practice & Pro Bowl modes
- Supports up to four players
6. International Superstar Soccer ’98
International Superstar Soccer ’98 is an exclusive release for Nintendo 64, focusing on the 1998 FIFA World Cup. It offers a choice of 52 teams and nine stadiums. The game can be played in six modes: Open Game, International Cup, World League, Scenario, Penalty Kick, and Training. Each mode includes its unique features and gameplay.
With the Open Game, you can play against a computer or another opponent at your preferred weather condition, stadium, and match handicap. In the International cup, you play against a qualifying team from a specific region in the 1998 World Cup.
World League has 48 teams participating in away matches; the Scenario places the player in 16 situations in ongoing matches to compete and deliver victory. Penalty Kick Mode is straightforward. Players in opposing teams participate in five rounds of a penalty kick out to break a tie, while in Training, players practice freely on the field, kicking penalties, free kicks, and defense. The game was universally acclaimed for its innovative modes and addictive gameplay.
- Exclusive release for Nintendo 64
- Features 52 teams and nine stadiums
- Play in Open Game, International Cup, World League, Scenario, Penalty Kick, and Training modes
- Play against a computer or another opponent in Open Game mode
5. NFL Blitz 2000
There are many advancements and tweaks that have been made to the NFL Blitz series since the original release. NFL Blitz 2000 is a fun game with different modes and customizable players. It supports up to four players meaning you can play against three friends.
You will experience realistic weather conditions, stadiums, and a tournament mode where you can play various teams with your favorite players. Like the previous franchises, you can customize defensive and offensive play to create an exciting experience.
- Customizable players
- Customize defensive and offensive gameplay
- Supports up to four players
- Tournament mode where you can play various teams with your favorite players
- Realistic weather conditions
#4. Mario Golf
Mario Golf is a golf video game for the Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Color. It is an easy game to play with immersive gameplay and various characters such as Mario, Yoshi, and Luigi. Each of these characters has unique abilities and attributes. Weather effects, such as rain and wind, can affect your shots, so players have to be on the lookout for favorable conditions lest they lose to their opponents.
The game has various game modes, each with a different gameplay mechanism. This gives you diverse ways to play the game at each level. With four complete 18-hole golf courses and 11 golfers, you will be in for an exciting experience. Being a multiplayer game, you can compete against the computer or with friends. The included mini-games will challenge even the most experienced player.
- Play as one of 11 characters including Mario, Yoshi, and Luigi
- Includes four complete 18-hole golf courses
- Features bonus mini-games
- Realistic weather effects
- Multiplayer game
3. Madden NFL 2002
Madden NFL 2002 is a 2002 game for the Nintendo GameCube and Xbox. It was the last game to be released on the Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Color, and one of the last releases for the PlayStation. It was one of the first Madden games to feature the Houston Texans in team selection (although they didn’t begin to play for another year after its debut).
You can play with one to up to four players. The game features play now, season modes, and create-a-team and create-a-player modes. It also has a card feature. You can develop your skills in defensive mode and the two minute drill will help you hone your head-to-head gameplay. You can also keep track of your players’ intensity with the Madden Meter.
The game was bundled with NBA Live 2002 and NASCAR Thunder 2002 for a collector’s edition release on PlayStation. Still, it wasn’t distributed separately at retail stores due to poor sales performance during its first month in stores around November 2001.
- Features create-a-team and create-a-player modes
- Keep track of your players' intensity with the Madden Meter
- Play with one to four players
- One of the first Madden games to feature the Houston Texans
- Last game to be released on the Nintendo 64
2. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is an action-adventure game that puts the player in control of a fictional skater. The gameplay is quite straightforward. Players must perform tricks at each game level to earn cash rewards. Although some levels are challenging, the rewards are motivating because they unlock new levels, and the player will keep going no matter the circumstances. The rewards can boost your statistics and unlock new equipment for a thrilling experience.
The player has unique abilities early in the game, such as jumping and performing other grinds. After grinding short distances, players eventually gain the ability for higher jumps and longer grinds. At this point, players can move along different levels and perform their desired tasks in no particular order.
Features like Create-A-Park bring more life to the game, so you will be sure to experience immersive gameplay. Overall, this game has remained a beloved classic for lovers of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise.
- Hundreds of new tricks
- Create your own skate parks
- Players have unique abilities early in the game
- Perform tricks at each game level to earn cash rewards
- Customize your own skaters
1. Mario Tennis
Mario Tennis remains a classic favorite in the Mario series. The game offers an unparalleled tennis experience with your favorite Mario characters onboard. The Nintendo 64 controllers allow you to perform different impossible moves with other video tennis games. Pressing different buttons allows you to spin the ball, strike different shots and release the ball at different levels of power. The 16-player line-up lets players choose from popular characters such as Mario, Toad, Luigi, Donkey Kong, Peach, and Bowser.
The control system is easy to learn and use, meaning players with different experience levels can learn the game mechanics and play with little trouble. Experienced players will benefit from advanced mechanics, levels, and fast-paced action. A total of seven types of shots are possible using only the two main buttons of the controller. Mario Tennis has been critically-acclaimed for its accessibility and impressive depth of controls.
- Play as one of 16 players including Mario, Toad, Luigi, Peach, Donkey Kong, and Bowser
- The characters have unique strengths and weaknesses
- Easy to learn and use control system for players of all skill levels
- Play with up to three other players
- Realistic tennis mechanics in unpredictable fantasy settings
Final Thoughts
Nintendo 64 is an iconic console that had many games produced for it before it was discontinued. Its advanced 3D graphics and gameplay made the console a great success. If you love sports games, this comprehensive list will give you excellent choices of some of the best games for the Nintendo 64 console. So, grab your controller and get ready for an immersive gaming experience. Whether you want to compete with AI components or challenge your friends to a round of golfing courses or skating challenges, there is a thrilling game for you.
- $20.90Buy Now
- Innovative gameplay
- Improved graphics from its predecessor
- Excellent sound effects
- New mini-games and rumble modes
- Activate powerful combos to knock out opponents
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11/29/2023 12:35 pm GMT - $20.00Buy Now
- Arcade-style gameplay
- Exaggerated tackles and over-the-top animations
- Features new additions, stadiums, and improved commentary
- Instant replay feature
- Players can control the teams and customize their teams
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/29/2023 12:40 pm GMT - Buy Now
- Features the courses from the PGA European Tour
- Has a practice mode that allows you to hone your skills
- Four main golf courses with realistic gameplay and features
- Go head-to-head with PGA stars
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
- $13.38Buy Now
- Features full NFL simulation with teams from the three previous titles
- Create and customize your players, including their appearance, attributes, and abilities
- Sign on new players and free agents
- Compete in Exhibition, Season, Practice & Pro Bowl modes
- Supports up to four players
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 09:59 pm GMT - Buy Now
- Exclusive release for Nintendo 64
- Features 52 teams and nine stadiums
- Play in Open Game, International Cup, World League, Scenario, Penalty Kick, and Training modes
- Play against a computer or another opponent in Open Game mode
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
- $24.55Buy Now
- Customizable players
- Customize defensive and offensive gameplay
- Supports up to four players
- Tournament mode where you can play various teams with your favorite players
- Realistic weather conditions
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11/27/2023 11:34 pm GMT - $57.22Buy Now
- Play as one of 11 characters including Mario, Yoshi, and Luigi
- Includes four complete 18-hole golf courses
- Features bonus mini-games
- Realistic weather effects
- Multiplayer game
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 10:14 pm GMT - $2.99Buy Now
- Features create-a-team and create-a-player modes
- Keep track of your players' intensity with the Madden Meter
- Play with one to four players
- One of the first Madden games to feature the Houston Texans
- Last game to be released on the Nintendo 64
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 11:50 pm GMT - $17.95Buy on Amazon
- Hundreds of new tricks
- Create your own skate parks
- Players have unique abilities early in the game
- Perform tricks at each game level to earn cash rewards
- Customize your own skaters
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 10:35 pm GMT - $29.90Buy Now
- Play as one of 16 players including Mario, Toad, Luigi, Peach, Donkey Kong, and Bowser
- The characters have unique strengths and weaknesses
- Easy to learn and use control system for players of all skill levels
- Play with up to three other players
- Realistic tennis mechanics in unpredictable fantasy settings
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 11:16 pm GMT
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