Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Arcade, Racing, Sport
- Platforms: Arcade, Family Computer, Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii, Wii U
- Developers: Nintendo
Excitebike (1984): The Original Motocross Classic
Released in 1984 for the Famicom in Japan and in 1985 as a launch title for the NES in the West, Excitebike is a motocross racing game that quickly became a classic. With its simple graphics and addictive gameplay, Excitebike is still enjoyed by gamers today.
Gameplay
Excitebike is a top-down motocross racing game. The player controls a rider on a motorcycle and must race against other riders to the finish line. The game features five different tracks, each with its own unique challenges.
One of the things that makes Excitebike so addictive is its simple yet challenging gameplay. The controls are easy to learn, but it takes practice to master the game’s physics and track design. The game also features a variety of obstacles, such as jumps, bumps, and logs, that the player must navigate.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Excitebike’s graphics were impressive. The game’s top-down perspective allowed for a large and detailed track design. The riders and motorcycles were also well-animated, and the game’s use of color was vibrant and eye-catching.
The game’s sound is also noteworthy. The engine noises of the motorcycles are realistic, and the game’s music is catchy and upbeat.
Design and Innovation
Excitebike was one of the first games to feature a track editor. This allowed players to create their own custom tracks, which added to the game’s replayability.
The game also introduced a number of innovative gameplay features. For example, the player can use the game’s “turbo boost” to give their motorcycle a burst of speed. The player can also perform stunts, such as wheelies and backflips, to earn points.
Legacy
Excitebike was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its addictive gameplay, simple graphics, and innovative features. Excitebike has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game today.
The game’s success spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Excitebike 64 (1998), Excite Truck (2006), and Excitebots: Trick Racing (2009).
Conclusion
Excitebike is a classic motocross racing game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. With its simple graphics and addictive gameplay, Excitebike is a must-play for any fan of racing games.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you master Excitebike:
- Use the turbo boost sparingly. The turbo boost can give you a burst of speed, but it will also drain your energy.
- Learn to use the game’s physics to your advantage. You can use the game’s jumps and bumps to gain speed and perform stunts.
- Practice makes perfect. The more you play Excitebike, the better you will become at the game.
Trivia
- Excitebike was originally released in Japan as “Exciting Bicycle.”
- The game’s music was composed by Hirokazu Tanaka, who also composed the music for the Super Mario Bros. series.
- Excitebike was one of the first games to feature a track editor.
- The game has been ported to a number of different platforms, including the NES, SNES, Game Boy, and Wii.
- Excitebike is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is considered to be one of the classic motocross racing games of all time.
Review Score
8.5/10
