Summary

As a standout title on the N64, Jet Force Gemini captivates with its rich storytelling, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters, making it a must-play for fans of action-adventure games.

• Release Year: 1999
• Genres: Adventure, Platform, Shooter
• Platforms: Nintendo 64
• Developers: Rare
• Publishers: Gradiente, Rare

Introduction

Embark on a galactic mission to save the universe from the clutches of the evil Mizar in Jet Force Gemini, a classic Nintendo 64 title that blends intense shooting action with strategic exploration.

Synopsis

“Jet Force Gemini” is a third-person shooter video game developed and published by Rare for the Nintendo 64 console in 1999. The game blends elements of shoot ’em up and action-adventure genres, drawing inspiration from 80s arcade games and more recent titles of the time, such as Super Metroid and Super Mario 64.

The game’s narrative revolves around three members of a galactic law enforcement team: twins Juno and Vela, and their dog Lupus. Their mission is to stop a horde of drones led by an insectoid called Mizar. The team must free the Tribals, a race of survivors who have been enslaved and imprisoned by Mizar.

The gameplay of “Jet Force Gemini” places a strong emphasis on shooting large numbers of enemies while dodging their attacks. The player controls the character from a third-person perspective in a 3D environment. The weapons arsenal is diverse, including grenades, a pistol, a machine gun, a sniper rifle, a flamethrower, and rocket launchers.

In addition to combat, the game incorporates platforming elements. The player has the ability to jump, hang from ledges, swim, and fly using jet packs. The game also features a manual aiming system with a targeting camera fixed behind the character’s head. When using this technique, a crosshair appears on screen and the player character becomes translucent, allowing players to aim and shoot with finesse.

The single-player mode requires the player to explore a galaxy composed of 15 nonlinear worlds. The game also includes a multiplayer mode where two to four players can compete in traditional deathmatch games.

Despite its positive reception and praise for its detailed graphics and lifespan, “Jet Force Gemini” faced criticism for its confusing controls and the requirement to save every Tribal to fully complete the game. Nevertheless, the game’s influence has endured, and it was included as part of the Rare Replay video game compilation for Xbox One in 2015. It was also re-released via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack in 2023.

Characters

Juno – A battle-hardened warrior. Vela – Juno’s equally skilled twin sister. Lupus – The team’s loyal canine companion. Mizar – The central antagonist, a tyrannical alien overlord.

Gameplay

Players navigate 3D environments, engaging in combat, solving puzzles, and rescuing Tribals. The game incorporates a vast array of weapons and items, with the ability to switch between characters to utilize their unique abilities.

Conclusion

Despite its challenges, Jet Force Gemini remains a beloved gem in the N64 library, offering a unique blend of shooting, exploration, and strategy that stands the test of time.

Review Score

8.2/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern