F-Zero is the first in a series of successful titles and rightfully so. It's a game of intense racing action that doesn't let up until you cross that finish line. From the tranquil worlds of Mute City to the harsh environment of Death Wind, it's a classic title that will entertain people for generations to come.
The game takes place way in the future, on different worlds. Players have four different racers to choose from, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Characteristics of each racer include acceleration, top speed, maneuverability, durability (too many collisions can destroy the vehicle) and recovery (from damage).
Players also have three “leagues” or race circuits to choose from (knight, queen and king), each having five races. There is also a time trial mode where players can race alone or with one rival car.
The races themselves consist of a single track with barricades, which damage the vehicle upon contact. There is also a “repair” section that racers can race through in order to repair any damage done to their vehicle. Other track features include zippers, which temporarily increase speed, gravel, which slows the player down, jumps and also, magnetic strips, which pull the racer towards the barricades. Each racer must complete five laps around the track and they are awarded a speed booster following each lap. Upon completion of a league, players are given
statistics of each race, namely rankings and times.
Most people will find the fast-paced (racers can go 500 km/h) action thrilling and that is one of the many things that make this game such a classic, particularly considering what games were like when this title was first released. Another thing to die for is the soundtrack. So many of the track tunes deserve a spot in any game music fan's collection. My favorite track tunes are Big Blue, Silence, Port Town and Red Canyon. The other tracks are also good but the ones listed are true classics.
The game has a few downsides worth mentioning. First of all, in White Land II, there is a jump that is too long to make without a speed boost (I learned later that if you hold the down direction, you can make it). That part always frustrated me. There are only three leagues to choose from (but that's okay considering when the game came out). Some people will not like the damage meter and would rather race with indestructible cars. Also, the final track in the King League, Fire Field, is a lot more difficult than any previous race. Many people will find it frustrating as a result.
All things considered, however, F-Zero will forever remain an enjoyable classic, if not the game then at least the soundtrack.
