As a kid I seemingly had an obsession with going fast, at least in games.
I grew up on Sonic the Hedgehog and when it came to racing games, F-Zero was king.
Then there wasF-Zero GX, for me the pinnacle of the series and racing games as a whole.
and it absolutely floored me.
As soon as I could I imported a copy of the game from America along with a Freeloader disc.
I was hooked, as much on the incredible soundtrack as the racing itself.
Since then, F-Zero fans have had very little.
Miyamoto has famously said the series won’t return unless there’s a significant or unique gameplay reason.
If that sounds like a mess, it kind of is.
Then it’s four laps of mayhem.
The first couple of races ended in me exploding on the final corner, which infuriated me.
But once I got my first top 10 position, my frustration turned to glee.
Then it turned back again when I retired on the next race.
My results seem inconsistent, even though I feel I have a (modest) level of skill.
Yes there’s a spin attack to knock out your rivals, but only if you’re feeling spicy.
F-Zero 99 instead places more emphasis on racing aggressively.
It’s often more like driving around a pinball machine.
It’s a great addition that not only provides respite from the chaos, but adds layers to strategy.
There are other modes too, which provide variety and are accessed on a rotational basis.
It means those at the back can still contribute to the team score through aggressive play.
It elongates the battle royale formula, where only the strongest move on to the next race.
This is F-Zero 99 at its most tense, its best and worst.
On the other hand, it often feels like luck over ability, which can be incredibly frustrating.
It’s an absolute rush, but I’m not sure my heart can take it.
I’ve been listening to the GX soundtrack simultaneously, which does add to the nostalgic appeal.
F-Zero 99 is certainly a fun distraction, then, even if each race is tumultuous carnage.
But it won’t beat a fully fledged new game.
So what’s the answer to Miyamoto’s question of how to elevate the series and bring something new?
