Box art

Technical Information

Platform: NES
Versions played: Nintendo Switch Online, NES
Developer: Nintendo
Publisher: Nintendo
Other versions: Arcade
Release date: Nov/30/1984 (JP); Oct/18/1985 (US)
Genre: Racing / Motocross
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch Online

Speed Meets Strategy!

About the Game

In the world of classic NES titles, Excitebike stands out as a high-octane motocross experience that revved up the gaming scene in 1984. Forget about saving princesses or stomping on goombas; this game is all about the thrill of off-road racing. Developed by Nintendo, Excitebike brought the excitement of motocross to your living room long before extreme sports became a craze.

How Is the Gameplay

Excitebike‘s gameplay is a heart-pounding rush of adrenaline. It’s a side-scrolling racing game where your goal is to navigate through four lanes, dodging other motorcycles and obstacles along the way. The game features ramps that you can use to jump into the air and tilt your bike forward or backward to adjust your landing position, ensuring a smooth descent and the maintenance of your speed. You can also perform wheelies for added flair.

The controls are straightforward: one button serves as the accelerator, while the other provides a turbo boost. However, it’s important to use the turbo sparingly to prevent your engine from overheating. Overheating can cause your bike to stall, so you’ll need to strategically time your acceleration bursts while avoiding red-hot crashes. This twist adds a layer of strategy to the otherwise fast-paced racing action.

What’s Good About the Game

Excitebike‘s appeal lies in its simplicity and addictive gameplay. The tracks are cleverly designed, offering a mix of challenging jumps and obstacles that keep you on the edge of your seat. Mastering the art of landing after a big jump without overheating your engine becomes a thrilling test of skill.

The game also offers a Track Editor mode, allowing you to create your custom tracks. This feature extends the game’s replayability, letting you challenge your friends with your own diabolical creations.

What Isn’t So Good About the Game

While Excitebike is an exhilarating experience, it’s not without its limitations. The lack of variety in tracks can make the game feel repetitive after a while. Although the Track Editor adds some diversity, it doesn’t entirely offset this issue.

Additionally, the absence of a true multiplayer mode for head-to-head racing can be a missed opportunity for competitive fun. Playing with friends involves taking turns, which can be a bit of a buzzkill when you’re itching for a real-time race.

Technical Features

In the technical department, Excitebike isn’t a graphical powerhouse, but it gets the job done. The visuals are clean and functional, with recognizable track elements and bike designs. The simplicity of the graphics doesn’t detract from the game’s appeal; in fact, it adds to its charm.

The music is catchy in its 8-bit simplicity, with tunes that capture the excitement of the races. Sound effects, like the roar of your bike’s engine and the satisfying crunch of a crash, add to the immersive experience.

How Does It Compare

In the realm of NES classics, Excitebike is a standout title for its genre. While it may not have the same iconic status as Super Mario or The Legend of Zelda, it holds a special place in the hearts of gamers who appreciate pulse-pounding racing action.

Is the Game Worth It

Excitebike is undoubtedly worth a spin for fans of classic NES titles and racing games. Its accessible gameplay and track editor feature offer good moments of leisure. It may lack the depth and complexity of modern racers, but it more than makes up for it with sheer, unadulterated fun.

Tips and Tricks

– Master the Jumps: Timing your jumps and landings is crucial. Learn the tracks and how to handle each jump to maximize speed and avoid overheating.

– Use the Track Editor: Get creative and design your own challenging tracks. It adds a new dimension to the game and extends its replayability.

– Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t get discouraged by early crashes and overheating. With practice, you’ll become a motocross master in no time.

Game Trivia

– Excitebike was one of the 18 launch titles for the NES in North America, showcasing Nintendo’s commitment to bringing diverse gaming experiences to home consoles.

– The game’s simple yet addictive formula laid the foundation for future motocross and racing games, making it an important milestone in gaming history.

– Excitebike‘s influence can still be seen in modern racing titles, with its emphasis on skill-based racing and track design.

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