Is F-Zero (SNES) Still Worth Playing Today?

Yes, F-Zero is still worth playing today as evidenced by Nintendo reviving the with F-Zero 99. As an arcade-style racing game, F-Zero possesses a unique quality that insulates it from becoming obsolete, even in the face of genre advancements. Or this is may be the case that there arcade racing had seen so few releases that any arcade racing title is good enough.

Are there F-Zero sequels?

Yes, there are several sequels to F-Zero SNES. The first one was F-Zero X for the Nintendo 64 in 1998, which introduced 3D graphics, 30 racers on screen, and a track editor. The second one was F-Zero GX for the GameCube in 2003, which was developed by Sega and featured a story mode, voice acting, and online multiplayer. The third one was F-Zero GP Legend for the Game Boy Advance in 2004, which was based on an anime series of the same name and had two different gameplay modes. The fourth and F-Zero Climax for the Game Boy Advance in 2004, which was only released in Japan and had a custom track editor.

Has F-Zero been released on modern platforms (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC)?

The original F-Zero can only be accessed on the Nintendo Switch via Nintendo Switch Online service. F-Zero and F-Zero X are both available on the Expansion Pack tier of the service. One cannot play the original on any other platform except for emulation.

Are there remakes or remasters? If no, is there a chance?

Yes, there is a sort of F-Zero new release but it is neither a remake or a remaster. Back in 2013, Shigeru Miyamoto has stated that they evaluate remakes or new games only with an innovative or interesting concept, and they have not found one for F-Zero yet. Ignoring this obvious lip service from Nintendo, it is pretty obvious why F-Zero will never be considered to be remade or, even a release of new entry because it is not a seller. Every release of the game saw declining sales figures.

As the monkey paw curled, F-Zero 99 was released. F-Zero 99 is a new game that blends the classic Nintendo racer with a battle royale twist. It is not a remake or a remaster of the original game, but rather a new game that is based on the original game’s gameplay and graphics. F-Zero 99 is different from the original game in several ways, such as:

F-Zero 99 supports up to 99 players online, while the original game only had one player mode or two player mode with split-screen.
F-Zero 99 has different modes that rotate throughout the day, such as Mini Prix, Grand Prix, Team Battle, and Pro Tracks. The original game only had Grand Prix mode with four cups and Practice mode.
F-Zero 99 allows players to customize their F-Zero machines with different colors, decals, and boost effects. The original game only had four machines to choose from, each with fixed colors and stats.
F-Zero 99 has a Skill Rating system that tracks players’ performance and unlocks more customization options. The original game did not have any ranking or progression system.
F-Zero 99 has a Spin Attack feature that lets players defend themselves from other racers by spinning their machines. The original game did not have any offensive or defensive abilities.

F-Zero 99 is a free game that is available only to active Nintendo Switch Online members. It was released on September 14, 2023, as part of the celebration of the 35th anniversary of the F-Zero franchise. It is a homage to the original game that started the series, but also a fresh and exciting take on the racing genre.

Games Similar to Gradius III Released During Its Time

Rock N’ Roll Racing: This is a racing game for the SNES and Sega Genesis that features cars equipped with weapons and a soundtrack of rock and metal songs. The game has a comic-book style and a variety of tracks and characters. The player can upgrade their car and weapons with money earned from races. The game was developed by Blizzard Entertainment and published by Namco in 1993.
Biker Mice from Mars: This is an action-adventure game for the SNES that is based on the animated series of the same name. The game follows three anthropomorphic mice who ride motorcycles and fight against the evil Plutarkians who want to steal Earth’s resources. The game has different modes, such as racing, shooting, and platforming, and features voice clips from the show. The game was developed by Konami and published by Nintendo in 1994.
Battle Cars: This is a vehicular combat game for the SNES that is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a violent sport called “Battle Cars” is popular. The player can choose from three different cars and compete in various tracks and arenas. The game has different weapons, such as missiles, disks, and grenades, that can be used to destroy opponents. The game was developed by Malibu Interactive and published by Namco in 1993.

Modern Games Similar to F-Zero

Below are the latest games which share the same genre as F-Zero.

FAST RMX

FAST RMX is a futuristic racing game that feels like a spiritual successor to the F-Zero series. It has sleek and fast vehicles, stunning and varied tracks, and intense and exhilarating gameplay. It also uses a unique mechanic called “phase switching”, which requires the player to change the color of their vehicle to match the color of the boost pads on the track. The following are its features:

Features fast-paced anti-gravity racing with online multiplayer
Boasts 30 tracks, including 6 new tracks
Has good production values in terms of visuals and soundtrack

Redout: Enhanced Edition

Redout: Enhanced Edition is a racing game that pays homage to classic arcade racing games like F-Zero, WipeOut, Rollcage, and POD. It features fast, challenging, and satisfying driving experience with realistic physics and stunning graphics. The game supports VR and has multiple modes, tracks, ships, and upgrades. It also has a soundtrack, a digital artbook, and several DLC packs available.

These are the features of Redout: Enhanced Edition:

Supports VR and has multiple modes, tracks, ships, and upgrades. You can customize your ship’s appearance, performance, and weapons.
Features a dynamic soundtrack that adapts to your playstyle and your performance on the track. The soundtrack is composed by Armin Ibrisagic, a former game designer at Coffee Stain Studios.
Offers a diverse world with 25 tracks in 5 locations, and 11 event types to keep players entertained.

ZEROCAR: Future Motorsport

ZEROCAR: Future Motorsport is an early access racing game that is inspired by classic arcade racing games. The game lets you drive powerful electric hypercars in a near-future setting and challenge your reflexes and skills. The game supports VR, has multiple modes, tracks, and upgrades, and features a dynamic soundtrack by Armin Ibrisagic.

Below are some features of the game:

Has electric powered hyper-cars that can reach speeds of 500 MPH.
Includes three different game modes: Drift, Accelerator, and Time Trial
Has Steam leaderboards and partial controller support.