This review was originally published in 2016, but we are updating and republishing it to coincide with the game’s release in the N64 library for the Nintendo Switch.
1080° Snowboarding, originally released for the Nintendo 64 in 1998, was a pioneering game that brought the snowboarding experience to home consoles. The game features six courses offering a variety of thrills as players take on the snowy slopes. With five riders of varying abilities, multiple boards to choose from, and the ability to perform tricks, 1080° Snowboarding still holds up well today.
Visuals and Sound Effects
The game is visually impressive for an N64 title, featuring fast and smooth action. While snow dominates the courses, there are rocky surfaces, trees, advertising banners, and buildings to prevent the environment from looking too plain. The character animations contribute to the immersive experience, with realistic weight shifting and smooth controls. The sound effects, from the noises of the snowboard slicing through the snow to grunts and moans of characters colliding, amplify the overall impact of the game.
Gameplay and Modes
1080° Snowboarding’s controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing players to perform smooth turns, tricks, and jumps. The main mode of play is the “Match Race,” featuring four races that increase in difficulty as the player progresses. Each course is excellently designed, with multiple routes and various obstacles that add to the challenge. “Time Attack” and “Trick Attack” modes offer additional replay value, providing opportunities to set faster times and accrue points from performing tricks.
Multiplayer and Conclusion
The game also includes a two-player mode where friends can race down any of the courses, providing an enjoyable and competitive experience. Overall, 1080° Snowboarding offers smooth gameplay, immersive visuals, and a variety of modes that will provide plenty of entertainment for players, especially in two-player mode.
In conclusion, 1080° Snowboarding remains a fun and engaging snowboarding game, even years after its original release. With its intuitive controls, challenging courses, and immersive visuals, the game continues to deliver an enjoyable snowboarding experience for players, particularly in multiplayer mode.