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Classic Games

Banjo-Kazooie

Collectathon perfected

Banjo-Kazooie refined the 3D platformer with charming characters, interconnected worlds, and a sprawling collectible hunt that showcased Rare's mastery of the genre.

N64 platformerrarecollectathon 1998

Overview

Rare’s response to Mario 64—and in some ways, its superior. Banjo-Kazooie filled its worlds with purpose. Every Jiggy had a puzzle. Every Jinjo needed rescue. Every Note contributed to progress. The bear-and-bird duo controlled beautifully, with moves that unlocked throughout the adventure. Gruntilda’s rhyming taunts provided personality that Mario’s silent journey lacked.

Fast facts

  • Developer: Rare.
  • Year: 1998.
  • Platform: Nintendo 64.
  • Composer: Grant Kirkhope.

Collectibles

ItemPurposePer world
JiggiesWorld access10
NotesDoor unlocks100
JinjosBonus Jiggy5
Mumbo TokensTransformationsVarious

Move progression

MoveTeacher
Talon TrotBottles
Beak BusterBottles
FlightFlight pad
WonderwingGolden feathers

World design

WorldTheme
Mumbo’s MountainTutorial
Treasure Trove CoveBeach
Clanker’s CavernIndustrial
Click Clock WoodSeasonal

Rare’s craft

ElementQuality
AnimationExpressive
MusicDynamic layers
HumourSelf-aware
PolishExceptional

See also