Star Fox 64 (USA)

What is Star Fox 64 (USA)?

Star Fox 64 (USA) is a classic and beloved 3D rail shooter and space combat simulator originally developed and published for the Nintendo 64 (N64). You step into the cockpit of an Arwing fighter as Fox McCloud, the leader of the Star Fox team. Your mission is to defend the Lylat System from the evil Andross and his army. The game is famous for its branching paths, multiple endings, and the revolutionary "Rumble Pak" force feedback. It offers a cinematic experience filled with memorable characters and frantic, action-packed dogfights in the depths of space.

Game Features

• Epic Space Combat: Engage in intense 3D aerial and space battles against swarms of enemy fighters and massive boss adversaries. • Branching Mission Paths: Your performance in each level determines your route through the Lylat System, leading to multiple possible game endings and high replay value. • Full Voice Acting: The game features a fully-voiced script, making the characters and story come alive with personality. • Multiple Vehicles: Pilot the agile Arwing, navigate the seabound Blue Marine, and command the rugged Landmaster tank across diverse environments. • Team-Based Gameplay: Fight alongside your wingmen Peppy, Slippy, and Falco, who provide tactical advice, support, and warnings during combat. • Local Multiplayer: Battle against a friend in a split-screen "VS Mode" featuring various arenas and vehicle options.

How to Play Star Fox 64 (USA)?

In Star Fox 64, you pilot your Arwing through various linear and all-range combat zones, destroying enemies and defeating powerful bosses.

1. Your primary goal is to complete each area by defeating all key enemies and surviving.
2. Use your standard laser for rapid, weak attacks or charge it up for a more powerful single shot.
3. Lock onto enemy fighters and structures to unleash a barrage of homing missiles.
4. Perform evasive maneuvers like the barrel roll (press Z twice quickly) to deflect incoming enemy fire.
5. Protect your wingmen! If they are critically damaged, fly close to them to provide temporary cover so they can escape.
6. Your flying score and performance determine which path you take to the next planet, so aim for high scores.
7. Look for switches and secret passages on certain maps to unlock new routes.
8. Collect golden rings to replenish your shield health and silver rings to increase your maximum shield capacity.

You will primarily use the N64 controller for this game. On an emulator with a keyboard, the standard controls are:

• Move Arwing & Navigate Menus: Arrow Keys or WASD Keys
• Fire Laser / Confirm Selection: Z Key
• Fire Homing Missiles (when locked-on): X Key
• Perform Barrel Roll / Cancel Selection: Double-tap the Z Key quickly
• Boost Speed: Hold the A Key (often mapped to the S or A key on keyboard)
• Brake / Slow Down: Hold the B Key (often mapped to the X or D key on keyboard)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the best ending in Star Fox 64? To achieve the best ending and face the true final boss, you must follow the most difficult path through the Lylat System. This typically involves achieving a high score on specific levels like Meteo, Sector X, and Area 6, leading you to the planet Venom from its more defensible approach.

Can I play the game with a friend? Yes! Star Fox 64 includes a "VS Mode" for local multiplayer. You and a friend can battle each other in split-screen combat using Arwings, Landmasters, or on foot with rocket launchers in a selection of different arenas.

What do the different colors of the targeting reticule mean? The color of your targeting reticule provides crucial tactical information. A red reticule means you have a solid lock on an enemy for homing missiles. A green reticule means you are generally aiming at an enemy but do not have a solid lock. When it turns yellow or flashes, this is usually a warning that an enemy has locked onto you, and you should perform a barrel roll or evasive maneuver.