Right from the start, F-Zero 99 looks different from other 99 games like Pac-Man 99 and Super Mario 35 which tried to evoke a more classic look. While this game uses the SNES title as a basis, the visuals are vastly improved with a retro aesthetic but modern touches applied. The result is a game that looks amazing and feels like a great evolution of the classic style.
But how is the gameplay? Well, it is incredibly addictive and fun. The goal here is not only to outlast 99 other players but also to try and come in first place in the race, giving F-Zero 99 a very different feel. There are different mechanics as well here, such as bumping to knock out opponents, using boost properly and managing your meter, and trying to collect sparks to get to the Skyway.
The Skyway is a track above the track that lets you speed through and bypass other cars for a short time, but it also requires strategy. The Skyway’s duration will depend on your boost meter, where you are in the race and your position in placement, while also taking care not to drop you back down right before a sharp turn. Knowing how to use the Skyway is a key part of the game, and is the path to success.
In addition to the core F-Zero 99 mode, there are also event races that rotate every few minutes, and that include events like Team Battles. Team Battles see 99 players split into two teams and go all out for points achieved by vehicular combat. Another event is Pro Races, which is where you will race on tracks that are much higher in difficulty than you will find in F-Zero 99 mode. There are other things to do in the game as well, such as the Mini Prix and Grand Prix, which are a 3-race elimination circuit and a 5-race elimination circuit.
There is more content being added constantly to F-Zero 99, including new tracks, so this is one that you will keep playing for a while. Given that this is free for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers, this may be the best way to get more people interested in the F-Zero franchise. Who knows, its success could lead to a new full entry or a remaster of F-Zero GX with online play. But for now, F-Zero fans have a game to enjoy and it shows Nintendo is listening to fan desires.
