Nintendo 64 techniques remain essential knowledge for retro gaming enthusiasts and speedrunners alike. The N64 launched in 1996 and introduced 3D gaming to millions of players worldwide. Its unique controller design and groundbreaking games created entirely new ways to play. Many Nintendo 64 techniques discovered decades ago still define competitive play today.
This guide covers the most important Nintendo 64 techniques every player should know. From basic controller handling to advanced movement exploits, these skills will transform how players experience classic N64 titles. Whether someone wants to beat their childhood high scores or compete in speedruns, mastering these Nintendo 64 techniques makes all the difference.
Key Takeaways
- Mastering Nintendo 64 techniques starts with proper controller handling—grip the analog stick with your thumb pad for maximum precision.
- The backwards long jump (BLJ) in Super Mario 64 is one of the most iconic Nintendo 64 techniques, allowing speedrunners to beat the game in under seven minutes.
- Z-canceling in Super Smash Bros. eliminates landing lag after aerial attacks, giving competitive players a significant advantage.
- Strafe running in GoldenEye 007 and Perfect Dark increases movement speed by roughly 40%, making it essential for multiplayer dominance.
- Game-specific exploits like Ocarina of Time’s wrong warps and infinite sword glitch can reduce 20+ hour playthroughs to under 20 minutes.
- Building muscle memory through practice with button combinations forms the foundation for executing advanced Nintendo 64 techniques consistently.
Essential Controller Handling and Button Combinations
The Nintendo 64 controller looks unusual by modern standards. Its three-pronged design confused many players at launch. But, understanding proper grip positions unlocks the full potential of Nintendo 64 techniques.
Most games require players to hold the center and right prongs. This position gives access to the analog stick, Z-trigger, and face buttons. The left prong exists primarily for games using the D-pad, like certain fighting titles.
Analog Stick Precision
The N64’s analog stick was revolutionary but requires specific handling. Players should grip the stick with their thumb pad rather than the tip. This grip provides better control for Nintendo 64 techniques that demand precision.
The stick registers 128 values in each direction. Light touches produce slow movements while full tilts create maximum speed. Many Nintendo 64 techniques exploit the space between these extremes.
Button Priority and Combinations
N64 games often assign multiple functions to single buttons. The A button typically handles primary actions. The B button usually cancels or performs secondary moves. C-buttons serve various purposes depending on the game.
Common button combinations include:
- Z + A: Crouch attack or grab in many titles
- Z + R: Shield modifications in fighting games
- A + B simultaneously: Special actions in specific games
- L + R + Start: Reset combination on most cartridges
Practicing these combinations builds muscle memory. Strong muscle memory forms the foundation for advanced Nintendo 64 techniques.
Advanced Movement and Speed Techniques
Speed defines competitive N64 play. Players have discovered dozens of movement exploits across various titles. These Nintendo 64 techniques shave seconds or even minutes off completion times.
Backwards Long Jump (BLJ)
The backwards long jump ranks among the most famous Nintendo 64 techniques ever discovered. Super Mario 64 players use this exploit to build unlimited speed. The technique works because the game doesn’t cap Mario’s backwards velocity.
To perform a BLJ, players must:
- Position Mario on a slope or stairs
- Turn around and hold backward on the stick
- Rapidly press A to chain long jumps
- Build speed with each consecutive jump
This technique allows players to clip through doors and skip entire sections. Speedrunners have used BLJ to beat Super Mario 64 in under seven minutes.
Strafe Running and Circle Strafing
Many N64 shooters reward diagonal movement. Strafe running combines forward movement with sideways motion. This creates faster overall speed than moving in a straight line.
GoldenEye 007 and Perfect Dark players rely heavily on these Nintendo 64 techniques. Holding forward plus strafe increases movement speed by roughly 40%. Competitive players rarely walk in straight lines.
Z-Canceling in Smash Bros
Super Smash Bros. introduced Z-canceling to fighting games. Players press Z just before landing during an aerial attack. This cancels the landing lag animation entirely.
Z-canceling transforms the game’s pace. Attacks that normally leave players vulnerable become safe options. This technique separates casual players from competitive ones. Modern Smash games removed this mechanic, making original N64 Nintendo 64 techniques unique.
Combat and Precision Strategies
Combat in N64 games rewards patience and timing. These Nintendo 64 techniques help players dominate in competitive settings.
Aim Assistance Exploitation
GoldenEye 007 features subtle aim assistance. The game slightly tracks enemies when players aim near them. Skilled players exploit this by quickly tapping the aim button near targets.
This technique, sometimes called “snap aiming,” creates faster target acquisition. Players can sweep across multiple enemies while tapping aim repeatedly. Each tap locks briefly onto the nearest target.
Combo Extensions
Fighting games on N64 allow creative combo construction. Players string normal attacks into special moves. Timing windows vary between games but generally require frame-perfect inputs.
In Super Smash Bros., players use throws to start combos. Up-throw into aerial attacks creates guaranteed damage. Characters like Kirby and Pikachu excel at these Nintendo 64 techniques.
Camera Control Mastery
The C-buttons control cameras in most 3D N64 games. Poor camera angles cause many player deaths. Learning to constantly adjust the camera prevents blind spots.
In The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Z-targeting locks onto enemies. This Nintendo 64 technique centers the camera and allows circle-strafing around threats. Combat becomes much easier with consistent Z-targeting use.
Popular Game-Specific Techniques
Different N64 titles require specialized skills. These Nintendo 64 techniques apply to the console’s most beloved games.
Super Mario 64
Beyond the BLJ, Super Mario 64 contains numerous exploits. Wall kicks extend jump distance significantly. Dive recoveries let Mario cover ground quickly. The slide kick provides both speed and attack options.
Coin collection follows specific patterns. Blue coins appear after defeating enemies or hitting switches. Players memorize coin locations to achieve 100-coin stars efficiently. These Nintendo 64 techniques remain relevant in speedrunning communities.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Ocarina of Time players have discovered hundreds of glitches. The “Infinite Sword Glitch” keeps Link’s sword hitbox active permanently. Wrong warps teleport players between distant locations.
Sequence breaks skip required items entirely. Players can beat the game without collecting certain equipment. These Nintendo 64 techniques reduce completion time from 20+ hours to under 20 minutes in expert hands.
GoldenEye 007 and Perfect Dark
Rare’s shooters reward aggressive play. Players should constantly move while shooting. Standing still makes players easy targets in multiplayer.
Weapon switching happens faster than reloading. Skilled players carry multiple weapons and switch between them during firefights. Body armor locations become critical knowledge. These Nintendo 64 techniques determine multiplayer victories.
Mario Kart 64
Mario Kart 64 features power sliding for speed boosts. Players hold the R button through turns and wiggle the stick. Orange sparks indicate a mini-turbo is ready.
Item management matters as much as racing skill. Holding shells or bananas behind the kart blocks incoming attacks. Strategic item use separates good players from great ones.
