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Classic Games

F-Zero X

Speed at 60fps

F-Zero X prioritised performance over visual fidelity, delivering 30 vehicles racing at 60fps with aggressive AI and a death-defying sense of speed.

N64 racingnintendofuturistic 1998

Overview

Sixty frames per second, no compromises. F-Zero X stripped textures to the bone and rendered simple geometry to maintain buttery-smooth racing at impossible speeds. The trade-off was worth it. Thirty vehicles jostled for position on twisting tracks with no barriers. Attack moves let racers destroy opponents. The sense of velocity remained unmatched for years.

Fast facts

  • Developer: Nintendo EAD.
  • Designer: Takaya Imamura.
  • Year: 1998.
  • Platform: Nintendo 64.

Technical choices

DecisionBenefit
Low-poly models30 racers
Minimal textures60fps stable
Simple tracksLong draw distance
No pop-inSmooth experience

Racing mechanics

FeatureFunction
BoostConsumes energy
Side attackRam opponents
Spin attack360° strike
Dive/pullTrack navigation

Machine variety

MachineCharacteristics
Blue FalconBalanced
White CatHigh grip
Fire StingrayHigh speed
Wild GooseHigh boost

Cups and modes

ModeContent
Grand PrixCup tournaments
Death RaceDestroy all opponents
Time AttackSolo records
VersusSplit-screen

See also