17 Best N64 RPG Games Of All Time

The Nintendo 64 was notorious for a variety of reasons.

It was Nintendo’s first 3D console, and it included fantastic first-party games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda.

And its controller was designed like a strange alien hand, which was somewhat intimidating.

However, it was not well-known for role-playing games. There weren’t many.

That doesn’t imply there weren’t any. This groundbreaking and profoundly important platform contains a number of jewels that any RPG fan should investigate.

So, if you’re sick of N64 shooters and collect-a-thon adventure games, you’ve come to the perfect place.

17. Custom Robo V2

Robots and fighting are two of the best things of all time, and Custom Robo V2 brings them together.

Yes, this is a game that every science fiction fan will love.

The players move around a futuristic overworld looking for other Robo fighters to kill. It’s full of parts and things to collect along the way, and the goal of the game is to get them all.

That might have been taken from another brand, but for legal reasons, I’ll just act like I don’t know and move on…

V2 is the second Custom Robo game, and it has some of the best action so far.

To get all of the parts and items in the game, players have to win fights.

It’s a great adventure on top of being a great game for people who like to finish everything.

As the story progresses through the game, players move around a huge open world looking for fights.

In the Custom Robo fights, players use powerful weapons and a certain amount of invulnerability to get the upper hand on their opponents.

Custom Robo V2 is like Flying Dragon, but it has robots and more RPG elements.

16. Shiren the Wanderer 2

Shiren the Wanderer 2 is the 14th best N64 RPG of all time, according to this list.

It’s another strange Japanese game set in the same world as Mystery Dungeon: Shiren the Wanderer for the DS.

But we’re still using the N64 case that stands up.

This is a great RPG from beginning to end.

The levels have a lot of detail, the game is fun to play, and the whole thing will make you dream about it every night after you turn off your N64.

Yes, there should be a warning!

As the second main game in the Mystery Dungeon series, this game takes its place in the lore.

The player takes control of Shiren, a brave boy who has to keep monsters away from his town.

How can a boy live through this?

Well, he’ll have to go into dark depths and find the things he needs to build a castle.

Demons can’t attack if there are big walls, so Shiren needs to learn how to build quickly.

Take part in turn-based battles and get awesome tools, important building materials like iron and stone, and kick monster butt at every turn.

It’s a dream come true for RPG fans.

15. Shadowgate 64: Trials Of The Four Towers

Shadowgate 64: Trials of the Four Towers is second only to Number 3 on our list (but don’t read any further!).

Shadowgate 64 is a game that is vastly underappreciated. It has a plot that sounds like a cross between Myst and D&D, and the gaming environment is full of secrets and fascinating characters to interact with around every corner.

That is the formula for creating the best N64 RPG games!

It’s more of a puzzler’s best friend than a Fire Emblem-style battle frenzy. In this FPS-style game, players go through interesting stages while dodging guards and solving riddles.

The main setting for Trials of the Four Towers is Castle Shadowgate. It’s similar to Ankh Morpork if you’ve ever read any Discworld novels. Thieves, crooks, and general trash crowd the streets, and a wicked wizard is on the loose.

Players take control of Del Cottonwood, a prisoner. He attempts to flee Shadowgate and becomes entangled in a far larger quest in which he must save the entire planet from a demonic Warlock.

Talk about leaping from the frying pan into the fire!

Thief fans will enjoy this title. It’s a magical experience with all of the RPG plot vibes we’re used to.

14. Flying Dragon

Flying Dragon is ranked 12th among the top N64 RPG games of all time! Again, this is a title with RPG characteristics but isn’t a genuine RPG, but we’re including it because it’s a fantastic game.

Consider Flying Dragon to be a nasty version of Mario Golf… minus the golf. It’s an RPG-style game with a strong emphasis on character advancement throughout.

In tournament mode, players gain riches by winning battles. Treasure can be traded in for various things and means of increasing your character’s stats, allowing them to become the greatest combatant.

Win battles, gain stronger, and get better gear. There are no turn-based combat, but the collecting aspect is strong (say that list like Obi-Wan-Kenobi).

The fighting gameplay components are reminiscent of Virtua Fighter and early Tekken titles. It’s a fantastic fighter for the N64, and a welcome change from cutesy fighters like Smash Bros.

Flying Dragon also has a ‘virtual mode’ where players can choose between 2D and 3D gameplay. It’s the present that keeps on giving, and it’s a must-have for everyone interested in building the perfect warrior.

13. PD Ultraman Battle Collection 64

PD Ultraman Battle Collection 64 is the first game on our list of the finest N64 RPG games of all time!

Many of our readers may find this one surprising because it was only ever released in Japan. Still, if you can get your hands on a Japanese N64 and a copy of this game, it’ll blow your mind…

… even if understanding what’s going on is difficult unless you speak Japanese or have Google translate handy.

Remember the Transfer Pak, which came with Pokemon Stadium and was one of the best Nintendo 64 accessories? PD Ultraman Battle Collection 64, on the other hand, used it like no other game.

Characters could be created by loading any Gameboy game. It didn’t matter which; the act would generate a new character or players to command.

Isn’t it amazing?

This game received some scathing criticism at the time, but I enjoyed it. With turn-based battles throughout, it’s almost like a hybrid between Viewtiful Joe and Pokemon Stadium.

If it sounds like your type of game, go for it.

12. Pokémon Stadium

Pokémon Stadium, more of a fight simulator than a genuine RPG, was a dream come true for owners of Game Freak’s Pokémon Red & Blue games.

Users could transfer their favorite Pokémon and utilize them in spectacular 3D battles, or simply rent ones from the in-game rental service if they didn’t have the GB games.

The main game had 80 battles distributed over four “cups,” as well as the eight Kanto gym leaders, the Kanto Elite Four, and the Champion. After you’d completed all of things, you’d be able to face the enigmatic Mewtwo.

While the game itself was fun, what I remember most fondly about Pokémon Stadium were the great Pokémon-themed mini-games that were a delight to play with friends.

11. Pokémon Stadium 2

The sequel was much better than the original.

It had improved graphics, a much-needed audio quality enhancement, and was compatible with Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal.

You could tackle four cups, the Gym Leader Castle, the Elite Four, and the Champion Red, same like in the first game.

This game was an excellent way to get started with competitive Pokémon. It had a Battle School where you could learn how to play the game intelligently rather than just teaching your OP beginning Pokémon the most lethal attacks.

It also included a slew of new mini-games that I think are even better than the ones in the original.

10. Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon

The fifth installment in the Ganbare Goemon series was also one of the first to introduce Western audiences to the series’ bizarre humor and anachronistic environment.

From the comfort of their peach-shaped flying ship, Goemon attempts to prevent the Peach Mountain Shoguns gang from converting Japan into a fine arts theater with Western influences.

By no means is it a “traditional” RPG.

However, one of the best aspects of this game is its adaptability. It can be an RPG at times, a Platformer at others, and even a battleship shooter if the scenario requires it.

9. Hybrid Heaven

Hybrid Heaven, an ARPG that combines real-time conflicts and turn-based combat components, is an intriguing game that wasn’t afraid to think outside the box.

When not engaged in combat, you’ll explore varied areas in the style of Tomb Raider and other 3D platformers, hopping, crawling, and climbing to attain your objectives and solve challenging riddles.

The combat is what distinguishes the game.

Once combat begins, both the player and the enemy are free to maneuver until they are in range. You can then choose what kind of action to take, such as punches and kicks, but also using objects and other items.

There’s also a one-of-a-kind multiplayer vs mode that plays like a fighter with minimal RPG features.

8. Aidyn Chronicles: The First Mage

There aren’t many typical fantasy RPGs on the N64, although there are a few, such as Aidyn Chronicles.

The concept of “magical true names” is central to the plot. Learning yours will empower you to connect your physical and spiritual selves, unlocking untold potential.

Alaron, the protagonist, will trek over the land in search of his own, learning about his beginnings in the process.

The developers put a lot of effort into building a captivating plot, enlisting industry heavyweights to write the script and design the game. Regrettably, they didn’t put the same attention into the title’s other components, preventing it from reaching its full potential.

Nonetheless, it’s a terrific experience for anyone who like fantasy RPGs.

7. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

While it is not strictly an RPG due to the lack of leveling mechanics and experience points, it does have enough RPG traits to place it someplace on our list.

Many RPG fans will recognize the item and weapon advancement, as well as other RPG hallmarks, in TLoZ: Ocarina of Time.

This game is regarded as one of the finest of its generation due to its exceptional quality in all aspects.

The tale is captivating, the settings of its enormous 3D open-world are varied and fascinating, and the soundtrack and sound effects continue to resonate in my memory to this day.

The graphics are very fantastic, particularly for the 1990s, which added to the smooth and finely animated fighting.

6. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

From the moment you start the game, TLoZ: Majora’s Mask feels dark and ominous.

Simply holding that golden cartridge in your hands is a fantastic sensation.

Walking inside Termina seems tight, as though you’re in forbidden land. Once you’re in, the tension only grows due to the game’s emphasis on the passage of time and your three-day limit before the moon falls.

The amazing images and soundtrack greatly contribute to the tense and immersive atmosphere.

Is this, once again, just an RPG?

Whether you like or dislike my ranking for LoZ: MM, it’s undeniably debatable.

5. Quest 64

Quest 64, also known as Holy Magic Century in Europe, is another superb classic RPG that no N64 player should overlook.

It follows Brian, an apprentice wizard on a quest to find his father, who has vanished from the monastery of mages, in Celtland, a world based on Irish myth.

One feature that distinguishes this RPG is that you get experience for certain stats by performing specified actions rather than simply “leveling up.”

If you are frequently hit, you will gain more Defense. Casting multiple spells will improve your magic skills, and so on.

The plot is overly simple. However, for those unfamiliar with the genre, it’s an excellent starting place.

4. Harvest Moon 64

RPGs do not have to have old swords, powerful magic, or evil dragons.

And the Harvest Moon series is a perfect illustration of how far RPG games can deviate from that stereotype.

Harvest Moon 64 was the third game in the series and the first to feature three-dimensional visuals in the farming simulator.

It’s a bit reductionist to call it a farming simulator. It’s also a social simulator, so in addition to taking care of your crops, you’ll need to become a pillar of the community, romance one of the local girls, and finally get married.

The graphics in the game are among the most appealing in the series, and there is an unbelievable range of things to fill your limited time.

Time also moves quickly in-game, allowing you to complete HM64 much faster than other retro Harvest Moon titles.

3. Gauntlet Legends

Gauntlet Legends on the N64 will appeal to fans of classic Dungeon Crawlers such as Diablo.

This action-adventure game allows you and up to three buddies to rampage across various locations full of animals to slaughter for loot and glory.

The story is uninteresting, but once the adrenaline of the search kicks in, that will be the last thing on your mind.

If you can get beyond the awful audio quality, it’s a superb version of the arcade original.

That, and the FMVs, which I’m not sure I miss.

2. Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber

Ogre Battle 64 is likely the system’s sole decent Tactical RPG.

And it’s far from average. It’s incredible.

As Magnus Gallant, a Military Academy graduate and captain in Palatinus’ army, you’ll command a slew of soldiers and shape the course of a developing civil war.

The game has a lot of unit customization, a sophisticated class system, and three different endings based on your decisions throughout the campaign.

It’s a little difficult to come by these days, but it’s well worth the effort. This gem has nothing on Tactics Ogre.

1. Paper Mario

Paper Mario on the N64 is an excellent example of a polished but distinct RPG.

The plot is standard Mario fare: free Peach from Bowser’s clutches by rescuing the Seven Star Spirits.

Having said that, the game has far more personality and character than nearly any previous Mario game, with the exception of its GameCube sequel.

Mario’s supporting cast is all wonderful in their own way, the conversation is frequently amusing, and the game is brilliantly paced.

And, in my opinion, the ratings nearly speak for themselves.

Something new is always waiting around the corner here.

As a 2D paper cut-out in a 3D environment, there are plenty of mysteries to discover, as you’ll definitely discover once you pick up this jewel.