Goldeneye 007 - N64

Released in 1997 to coincide with the release of its big screen counterpart, Goldeneye is the world-renowned videogame of one of the most popular cinema franchises in history. With a British name behind it, it only seemed natural that the developer of the movie tie-in should be British. So along came Rare. Second party developer to Nintendo, Goldeneye is exclusively a Nintendo 64 title. Does this first person shooter live up to its 007 franchise? Oh yes indeed.

At the time of its release, Goldeneye was one of the most impressive titles to date, and even to this day, it still looks impressive. Impressive are the graphics, but also, the mechanics. This isn’t just a first-person shoot-em-up. You’re a secret agent, sent on Her Majesty’s Secret Service. You have to be tactical about the moves you make. For example, rather than kill someone who has information, why not shoot him or her in the hand to prize it out of them. Clever, huh? Each part of the enemy’s responds when shot. Shoot the chest, he dies painfully; shoot the head and he’s out like a light.

Rather than reaching the end of the level at hand, you must fulfil certain conditions in order to complete the mission successfully. These requirements alter, depending on the level of difficulty you choose.

It’s not hard to see why this title was a sell out at launch. Goldeneye is a much respected classic; and deservedly so, too. more