The System: Released in 1996, the Nintendo 64 was named for its 64-bit processor. It used cartridges even after the release of disc-based competitors such as the Sony Playstation and the Sega Saturn. The downside to using cartridges was that they could not store as much data as a disc. Many developers did not make games for the Nintendo 64 because of the space that were on the cartridges, preferring disc-based alternatives. At least you did not have long loading times with the cartridges. When the Nintendo 64 was first released there were only two games at launch, Super Mario 64 and Pilotwings 64. Only 296 games were released for the Nintendo 64 in North America, much less than the Playstation did and it also did not sell as well as the Playstation. Several of these games are among my favorite games of all time. I love the Nintendo 64 for the many fun games released for it.

The Controller: The Nintendo 64 controller has three handles on it. The one on the left has a directional pad, the one in the middle has the analog stick, and the buttons on the right. There is also a spot in the back where you can plug in accessories. This controller seems to be made for people with three hands. The position you place your hands on the controller depends on the game that you are playing. The controller isn't bad but it is weird.

Accessories: There have been several accessories released for the Nintendo 64. Here is a look at some of them.

Controller Pak: This is the system's memory card. It plugs into the back of the controller. It is used for games that did not save onto the cartridge or is used to save extra game data for some games that do save onto the cartridge.

Expansion Pak: This goes into the slot in the front of the console in place of the Jumper Pak and it doubles the Nintendo 64's RAM. It is required for some games such as Donkey Kong 64 and Majora's Mask, while other games such as Perfect Dark require it for some features. It also increases the resolution of a few other games.

Rumble Pak: This plugs into the back of the controller and it vibrates during gameplay. It does not add much to the gameplay, it is just a fun experience. It allows you to use the Stone of Agony in Ocarina of Time.

Transfer Pak: This plugs into the back of the controller and it has a cartridge slot for Game Boy games you can transfer data between your Game Boy game and your Nintendo 64 game to unlock extra content on some games such as Pokemon Stadium.

Console Variations: Besides the standard dark gray console, the Nintendo 64 has been released in several different colors and styles.

• Jungle Green
• Ice Blue
• Grape Purple
• Fire Orange
• Smoke Black
• Watermelon Red
• Gold
• Pikachu