The legendary UK developer Rare has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Many of the titles from the studio showcase a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and memorable characters. From the days of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) to modern platforms, Rare has consistently delivered groundbreaking and beloved titles. In this article, we delve into the seven best games crafted by Rare, celebrating the studio’s remarkable contributions to gaming history.
It’s widely known that the Rare of modern times is not the same company as the mid-’90s heyday. Many key personnel have left the company and the way in which it operates internally has changed significantly. That’s not to say there aren’t still some great games coming from the studio. However, for every Sea of Thieves, we have twice as many Kinect Sports games.
In this article, we face the hard challenge of choosing the seven best Rare games from the studio’s long history. Rare is credited with having input into the development of 125 games to date. But what makes Battletoads better than Beetlejuice? Read on to find out!
7 Best Rare Games
Banjo-Kazooie (1998)
Banjo-Kazooie is a timeless classic that stands as one of Rare’s crowning achievements. Originally released for the Nintendo 64, this 3D platformer follows the adventures of Banjo, a bear, and Kazooie, a bird, as they embark on a quest to rescue Banjo’s sister from the evil witch Gruntilda. Known for its vibrant worlds, charming characters, and engaging gameplay, Banjo-Kazooie remains a beloved title that showcases Rare’s prowess in crafting exceptional platformers.
GoldenEye 007 (1997)
GoldenEye 007 revolutionised the FPS genre and set the standard for console-based multiplayer gaming. Developed for the Nintendo 64, this game is an iconic adaptation of the James Bond film of the same name. With its memorable single-player campaign, innovative level design, and groundbreaking local multiplayer mode, GoldenEye 007 left an enduring impact on the gaming landscape and solidified Rare’s reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.
Check out Chit Hot’s Complete GoldenEye 007 Walkthrough Guide if you’re enjoying the modern re-release!
Donkey Kong Country (1994)
Donkey Kong Country, released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), marked Rare’s collaboration with Nintendo and introduced groundbreaking pre-rendered 3D graphics. The game follows Donkey Kong and his sidekick Diddy Kong. The pair embark on a journey to reclaim their stolen banana hoard. With its visually stunning graphics, inventive level design, and memorable soundtrack, Donkey Kong Country became an instant classic and showcased Rare’s ability to push technical boundaries.
Perfect Dark (2000)
Perfect Dark, a spiritual successor to GoldenEye 007, continued Rare’s legacy of delivering exceptional first-person shooters. Released for the Nintendo 64, the game featured Joanna Dark, a secret agent investigating a conspiracy in a futuristic setting. With its robust single-player campaign, immersive multiplayer modes, and advanced AI for the time, Perfect Dark demonstrated Rare’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was possible on console hardware.
Conker’s Bad Fur Day (2001)
Conker’s Bad Fur Day was a departure from the usual family-friendly fare associated with Rare. The game presented a mature and irreverent take on the 3D platformer genre. Released for the Nintendo 64, the game follows Conker, a foul-mouthed squirrel, as he navigates a world filled with humor, pop culture references, and unique gameplay mechanics. Conker’s Bad Fur Day stands as a testament to Rare’s ability to experiment with different tones and themes. It’s a true showcasing the studio’s versatility.
Battletoads (1991)
Battletoads, an action-packed beat ’em up, gained a reputation for its challenging gameplay and memorable characters. Initially released for the NES, the game follows three anthropomorphic toads—Rash, Zitz, and Pimple—as they embark on a mission to save their kidnapped comrade. Known for its punishing difficulty, unique art style, and cooperative multiplayer, Battletoads has become a cult classic, demonstrating Rare’s ability to create memorable experiences across various genres.
Viva Piñata (2006)
Viva Piñata represents a departure from Rare’s traditional genres, offering a delightful and colorful simulation game for the Xbox 360. Players cultivate a vibrant garden to attract and care for piñata creatures, each with its unique characteristics. The game’s charming art style, deep simulation mechanics, and unexpected depth make Viva Piñata a standout title in Rare’s portfolio. This game showcases Rare’s capacity to innovate and explore new genres, captivating players with its whimsical world and addictive gameplay.
In conclusion, Rare’s legacy in the gaming industry is nothing short of extraordinary, and these seven best games are a testament to the studio’s enduring impact. From groundbreaking platformers to genre-defining shooters, Rare’s contributions have shaped the gaming landscape and continue to be celebrated by players worldwide. As Rare continues to evolve and explore new horizons, the influence of these iconic titles will forever be etched in the annals of gaming history.
What’s your pick for the best Rare games? Did we miss any of your favourites? Let us know in the comments below!
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