It has been over 25 years since “GoldenEye 007” was released for Nintendo 64. The Rare-developed game was a landmark title, proving first-person-shooters could work on a home console. The genre had mostly been defined by PC titles like “Doom” and “Wolfenstein 3D.” Sure those titles had ports to the SNES, Sega Genesis, and more, but they didn’t play the same or feel the same. “GoldenEye 007” had the distinction of being made for consoles of the time, and now you can finally feel that sensation again as the James Bond title hits Xbox Game Pass and the Nintendo Switch Online this week!
While ostensibly the same game on both platforms, there are some noteworthy differences. For starters, the Xbox version should not be confused with the previously reported HD remake of “GoldenEye 007” that leaked onto the internet last year. Both the Nintendo Switch release and the Xbox version are ports of the original N64 game. That being said, the Xbox version has been “recreated” and “enhanced” for its new debut. Reportedly it will be running at a higher frame rate, support 4K visuals, and offer dual analog control. Don’t let the 4K hype you up too much though, we’re still talking about N64 polygons and textures here.
The Nintendo Switch version may actually have a higher frame rate than the N64 as well based on previously reissued games for the online service. “Pilotwings 64” runs noticeably smoother on the Switch than it ever ran on the original hardware. Based on this, it’s likely that “GoldenEye 007” could also perform with a more consistent frame rate as well. That will certainly be put to the test though in the online multiplayer, which is something the Switch version has that the Xbox version does not. Both will support local split-screen multiplayer, but only the Switch is bringing the battles online.
In favor for the Xbox though is the dual analog control support. For those who may not be familiar with the original N64 version of the game; it was developed for a console that only had one analog stick. Bond’s movements in the game were a bit stiff with just the single stick for movement. Aiming up and down had to be accomplished either through the use of the C-buttons on the N64 controller, or holding the R button down to stop moving and aim in a particular location. Strafing was also mapped to the C-buttons, creating what would be a very awkward set-up by todays control standards. Sure the Switch’s two Joy-Con sticks help mitigate that to an extent, but the right Joy-Con is basically emulating the four C-buttons, not acting as a true multi-directional analog controller.
It’s likely that the Xbox version will end up looking and feeling better than the Switch version but either one beats having to break out an N64, old component cables, and a cumbersome three pronged controller. And remember for Switch owners, in order to have access to “GoldenEye 007,” you need to not only be a subscriber to the Switch Online service but you need to pay for the expansion pack too. With that, you’ll have access to all of the previously released N64 titles for the Switch Online in addition to James Bond’s rollicking adventure on the console.
While you’re waiting to relive your childhood gaming experiences, watch Pierce Brosnan and Jimmy Fallon play “GoldenEye 007” multiplayer from a few years ago on “The Tonight Show.”
“GoldenEye 007” hits Xbox and Nintendo Switch January 27th, 2023.
