F-Zero X Is Worse on Nintendo Switch - RETRO REVIEW (N64) 

Thanks for including our Expansion Kit footage in your review! We have loads more videos about it on our channel if anyone wants to dive deeper! We'll also be talking about the NSO version on our next podcast on March 23rd :-) Expansion Kit Review: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-sskREyR9Jbk.html Direct Feed footage: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-1WYI694fel8.html Stream with commentary / English guidance: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-sskREyR9Jbk.html

When it comes to losing traction, not only does it differ from vehicle to vehicle, you’re also meant to use the fact that the N64 controller has an analogue stick (which, remember, was a new and defining feature of the N64), to carefully maneuver through corners. Like a lot of Nintendo games, F-Zero X was designed around the console and the controller it was made for. So you’re not meant to slam the analogue stick all the way left or right, but rather find the sweet spot required for that particular turn and vehicle, going as far as you need to take the corner, without losing traction. This adds to the game’s replayability, as you’ll play a lot of tracks slightly differently depending on the vehicle you’re driving. And of course, you’re also meant to use the L & R buttons during turns, when necessary. I will agree that it’s not intuitive, and that it doesn’t feel as immediately good as GX’s handling does (I got very frustrated by it as a kid). But once I understood why it’s designed the way that it is, I came to appreciate the depth it added to the game. It ephasizes how F-Zero is meant to be Nintendo’s hardcore racer compared to it’s more pick up and play Mario Kart.

If Nintendo don't want to launch a new entry in the series, they could remaster GX (spend less and see the receptivity to decide if launching a new entry is worth).

Pro-tip to somewhat avoid losing grip: Hold R or ZL and quickly tap the accelerator instead of holding it.

F Zero GX still looks really good to this day

This game blew my mind when it came out on n64. The sense of speed and control with 60 fps was insane.

BTW, I think the reason why you slip is because of each racer having a "deadzone" for their steering controls where if you move the stick too fast, too far in a direction they loose their traction. It's definitly related to their grip stat. Better grip stat means you can move the control stick more without entering that dead zone. The game wants you to use a little finesse when steering! Which is easier said than done as everyone who's played the game knows. If you move the stick past that racer's limit, they'll begin to slip if performed too quickly, however, if I remember correctly, you just have to release the acceleration for a moment and then press the button again to instantly regain traction. Just remember you'll be rocketing off into the direction your racer is pointing! So that said, intentionally slipping is imperative for tracks like the Big Hand and... I THINK Big Blue II? Whichever track has the pinpoint turn of death. You know the one! So hopefully I'm not wrong on all that and it helps others who may be having the same trouble. It's been more than a few year since I've played the game but I still adore F-Zero X! If you're having trouble at first, play as Jody Summer! Her racer has excellent grip! Plus she's a badass and is like the Samus Aran reference in the F-Zero universe with her design and background (much like James McCloud is the... well, James McCloud reference in the F-Zero universe)!

The loss of traction can be dealt with. F-Zero X has a learning curve. Just practice a lot. I actually missed the handling of X when I played GX.

I also find it a shame they didn't include the expansion, such a missed opportunity.

Good review...but man, that title is such clickbait. The only thing you even mention being worse in the review is the something that even you guys say is likely to go unnoticed.

I could totally see them adding the Expansion Kit the same way they did with modified releases for the Nes and Snes, by adding a “special” version as a separate title

9:40 Tip when u slide out, try tapping, and then holding the gas button again for a quick recovery. Also when navigating bends at high speed try tapping the gas to prevent sliding out. Soon u will learn to tap at the sweet spots in bends and dont lose speed

They just don't care anymore

Ah F Zero X. I never played gx, but I played the heck out of x. Even cleared all the master modes. What kept me playing though... Was the rockin soundtrack. I really hope Nintendo revisit this franchise with a new entry sometime soon...

My preferred way to do hard turns in F-Zero X is to use side attacks (double tapping L/R) instead of just holding the trigger or just turning normally. Side attacks give you a lot of leeway to not only keep your grip, but also maintain a great amount of speed while turning. If you are going fast, utilize side attacks. It’ll help a lot.

When F-Zero X first came out for the Nintendo 64, its 60fps racing news quickly traveled to the US. We didn't have this game, so I ordered it from Japan. It came with a plastic adapter so that it could be played on our consoles. I didn't understand the language on the menus, but that didn't matter. After just a few plays I knew what they all were. What a fantastic rush this game was back then!

As a f zero x fan, I'm sure they will fix the emulation features in time . I moderately recommend this version

I've been recommending the game to friends of mine. Especially if they've neer played it before. I'm glad to see this game back again and seeing all the love it gets online.

Dude. Gx's story mode is the hardest game I've ever played.

The series really needs a remake compilation since it is discontinued and have no sequels by now

I hope (but doubt) that Nintendo eventually adds the F-ZERO X Expansion Kit to the Switch port. I personally would love to see kind of insane tracks people could create with it, especially considering that the Track Editor was said to be practically the same tools that the developers used.

Now do retro reviews of all the f-zero games. Come on Andre you know you wanna do it.

This is a great treat racing game, and yes it needs some skills to play it so you don't lose grip that ease ;) Great review! Great game! Hope they add the expansion pack some they 🤞

I got it on Wii U and I’m loving it! I’ve always wanted GX but it’s absurdly expensive so finally being able to play a 3D F-Zero game and it runs at a buttery 60fps is amazing! I will one day get my hands on GX…I hope

I'd be happy if we can get that expansion for f zero x. I would love to build tracks and cars to torture my friends.

3:07 I love how he just casually pushes the blue jet out of the track.

Andre I love the retro reviews! Please do more! Signed, another 80s baby

How to describe F-ZERO to friends: "Think Mario Kart, but at double speed, 30 racers, no respawns, and no RNG B.S. to screw you over."

No mention of the controls with the pro-controlle or joycons?

F-Zero has always kinda seemed like Nintendo's take on the type of racing in Speed Racer to me for some reason, just without the gadgets and they're hovering cars

I got it on the Wii U Virtual console

As someone who has never played an F-Zero game (unless you count the Nintendo land one) I honestly can say this is one of my favourite racing games of all time

I remember really enjoying this game.

Love how you advocate for improvement like The N64 SD VER. I just wish you'd equally advocate for an achievement system on the Switch too...

I remember being 4yrs old when I broke my femur bone and F zero was in the hospital for months and this was one of the first video games I ever played. Still a cool game

Solid review. Well done!

Still my favourite F-Zero game, especially with the DD Expansion Kit. I know GX tends to be the one most people praise (even though it feels like 90% of people who do so either played it on emulators after the fact, or haven’t even played it at all…). And although GX is very good, and quite pretty, X just has far more enjoyable course design to me. It’s a shame, but not a surprise, that the emulation isn’t up to par. Guess I’ll just stay with my HDMI modded N64 instead. And those who don’t have nor want a modded N64, RetroArch is a very solid emulator suite; just saying ;)

I'd take a sequel to FAST RMX at this point. But that's probably not going to happen either. :(

You made me want an F-Zero Battle Royals game now! Thanks a lot lol

We need Diddy Kong racing next!!

As a younger individuals with the title decade and half ago, the GX story mode ending was the ending point for me. That rainbow virtual world was too rough for me back then. I would like to see how I would fair now that I am nearly thirty ha ha.

Dude! How could you miss mentioning the amazing music! The rock sounds are also the better mix then in GX, which had great music too. Please Nintendo, bring GX with online AND a new F-Zero! It’s truly deserved.

Ah, yes. I know F-Zero X very well from back in the old days, and played it tons. (However, I've hardly ever played GX, so I don't know that one nearly as well.) (3:57) One time, I challenged myself to come in last place out of all survivors in each race, and still placed 1st overall in the end, because of the sheer amount of KOs I was able to cause to the competition. (5:06) 60 FPS indeed! I knew even back then that the gameplay looked a lot smoother than something like Super Mario 64 or Mario Kart 64. (5:17) Maybe that's why it feels like I've been doing far worse than I feel I should be when playing this on the Switch. Although, I think maybe the analog stick sensitivity could be partly to blame too, since I have trouble nudging it only slightly. (8:20) Yeah, I've heard more than enough garbled audio while playing other N64 games online with just one other person. Sometimes it's hilarious, but other times... "Ow, my freakin' ears!"

If it weren't for that pathetic price they're charging for the subscription, I would be hyped over this. But $50 is too much, especially after the issues you mentioned. I'd rather just play it on an emulator on my laptop. I just hope this doesn't ruin it for newcomers. Also for anyone wanting about a new F-Zero or anything, blame Miyamoto for that predicament. Sales aren't an issue with this series, it's just the lack of gimmick options that Miyamoto can't think of that's holding this ip dormant.

Shame the control of the craft isn’t the same as n64. I done about two tracks and noticed it straight away. Back into original hardware to play this I guess.

I need a F-Zero Remake right now

Gears of War's active reload mechanic always reminded me of F-ZERO's boost/energy meter.

That gameplay is super aggressive, what a terrifying driver.

they need to include a manual or button layouts, i couldn't figure out the attack methods. i knew they were there but.....

I really hope you review RedOut 2 when it released. I saw some new gameplay videos that make it my most wanted game of the year.

Give us a 30 player multiplayer online F Zero Nintendo!! And let the FAST RACING devs handle it!

really struggling to maneuver precisely with the pro controller/joycons. this is one game where input lag and slightly different stick sensitivity really make a difference, sadly.

why are you not holding Z or R when turning? anyways, yeah, the framedrops are noticeable, that sucks

The N64DD content would make for a great SP edition of F-Zero X later down the line.

Gran Turismo is amazing and I'm sure Forza is as well...BUT..the gameplay and incredibly tight controls make F-ZERO X the best racing game ever

I named my channel after this game... no lie, lol.

Didn't they recreate Heartwork by Carcass in this?

If the title of the video says F-zero is worse than how come you gave it a liked a lot At the end

I hope the controls get polish in the future. That steering issue really bothers me 😢

My favorite game sound track!

I thought you going to say it’s bad on switch, but I guess you were just actually pointing out the minor flaws and still giving a thumbs up

Funny lol I just watched some other reviews and they loved it. I guess it's all preference. Personally its fun I think but never been an F-zero fan in general.

I think I still have this game on my Wii U from using the Wii virtual console (you got access to the virtual console and the normal Wii U eshop this way). I'll probably just use that one instead.

The controls in this game are pretty much perfect, and it seems like you're just...not very familiar with them. It doesn't make them bad or cumbersome.

I never notice the frame rate dipping…! But then again, I’m not very sensitive to that 🤷🏻‍♂️

playing F zero x requires a technique that is unique to two kinds of players me, I like to be in control and tend to not slide by smashing the A button to gain control at high speeds and crossing turnpikes others would slide like hell and go at serious speeds and take more dangerous ways to gain that speed. somehow the game is built solid like a rock, supporting many ways to play it from many machines to choose from as they all affect your unique technique. its stupid fun, and for some reason makes me like it more than GX despite how gorgeous and challenging it is.

10:48, F-Zero 99...oh yeah.

Can you buy the other racers on the switch?

And so the wait for a new F-Zero title continues...

Choose the dinosaur guy if losing grip is an issue.

Oh man that f zero expansion pack , that a big Mia ☝️☝️☝️

They couldve at least added the 64DD expansion...

It's my favorite Fzero game

The game was created with n64 controller dead zone in mind. The newer controllers are much more sensitive and cuts the ship harder. Have you used your n64 controller with it? Curious to see if dead zones on those are as retro as advertised lol.

When do we get F Zero Death Race 99

You're turning incorrectly. You have to hold down the drift triggers (L or R) while turning

Tap double 'a' to recover from sliding

When I played F-Zero X on NSO, I was impressed of this game and I don’t see the problem that it’s worse just the performance or anything else It’s just a great game 9/10

My only criticism of this video is its constant comparisons between X and GX. Of course GX is the superior of the two - it was a polished sequel to an older game on an older console with a formula that just needed a bit of tweaking to reach perfection. But X still holds up great and feels as tight as ever.

While I do like both, I've always preferred X over GX.

There is no "Desicion" the real deal is select max speed at the top, Boost all the way and don't crash, thats the way to play F Zero X "specially on the higher dificulty". 🙂

Barren environments are an unfair criticism for X. It was necesarry to make it possible to run a steady 60 fps on a cartridge game from the late 90s.

I thik this one needs a HD Remake since years already. Cause the gameplay is still awesome.

Are the Switch versions generally a downgrade from the Wii VC versions? I'm surprised they didn't just use those.

So what you’re saying is this version has the same control stick dead zone the Wii U port did? They actually had to patch a Virtual Console game to fix it

oh my god this is literally the first official F-Zero to have framerate issues

Been playing this non-stop since it dropped. I didn’t notice any issues, it feels great to play

Come on, nintendo! Give us the foot racetrack!!

Jesus, I just realized there are people old enough to vote who weren't born when the last F-Zero game was released.

"Last F-Zero on switch" At the release rate Nintendo has, I'm surprised this came out, let alone if we get an actual new one.

“Release it now, fix it later” really seems like Nintendo’s tactic for releasing games on the Switch, and it’s getting old real quick. Why not just wait a few extra weeks/months to release a game to ensure it has all of its content and it works properly before releasing it?

How I am not surprised about this title

A franchise nintendo has forgotten about along side diddy Kong racing yet we get Mario kart every generation

Okay, I know you don't like it on the Switch, but I don't have an N64, but I do have the switch. And honestly, it's not that bad to me.

Winning in Master Cup Race is Nearly Impossible in this version because of how overly sensitive the controls are

The death zone of your control should be really bad to have problems with F-zero

No i'm sorry but you're just hallucinating, fzerox has a superior more realistic physics than gx, witch takes you by the hand for you not to unhook, impossible on gx. Gameplay is just more technical in X and has real physics, you lost control because you're piloting a f''''' turbojet, it doesn't stick to the ground like a magnet it's a combination of both. Those crazy physics moments combined with unplacable skill training are what make this game so amazing. Nintendo has no excuse for not including dd64 version tho...

24 years???? holy fuck I'm old, because I played it on launch, even got a Japanese import version of the game!

We need f zero new game

7:18 This is wrong. I came across this info while researching multiple time and it’s just flat out false. I came across a couple of RU-vid videos a while back of someone playing the X-Cup and the CPU’s dying to the jank track layout. A day later, I play F-Zero X’s X-Cup and I came across the exact same track in one of the videos I watched. I recorded a video showing that their are no more CPU’s on the course anymore so If you guys don’t believe me just DM me on IG. That being said, because these stages are coded into the game it raises the question “Are these tracks actually randomly generated, or were they made normally but the design of them didn’t have as much care as the main Grand Prix tracks?”. IDK where the main source came from, but if anyone knows please tell me here or on IG.