What Systems Was GoldenEye On?
GoldenEye 007, the iconic first-person shooter originally released in 1997, has captivated gamers for over two decades. Originally a Nintendo 64 exclusive, its enduring popularity has led to its revival on modern platforms. The crucial question on the minds of many gamers is: what systems can I actually play this classic on? The answer is straightforward, the original GoldenEye 007 was exclusively released on the Nintendo 64. The remastered version of GoldenEye 007 is now available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.
GoldenEye 007: A Legacy Revisited
The original GoldenEye 007 was a landmark title, setting a new standard for console first-person shooters. Its tight gameplay, engaging multiplayer modes, and faithful adaptation of the James Bond film resonated deeply with players. For years, Nintendo 64 owners were the only ones who could experience its magic. Fast forward to today, and the game has received a new lease on life, expanding its reach to modern consoles while retaining its classic charm.
The Remastered Experience
The recent revival has brought GoldenEye 007 to a wider audience, marking the game’s debut on Xbox consoles. The game’s remastered version boasts improved visuals, a smoother framerate, and other modern enhancements. Notably, the controls have been optimized for contemporary standards, making the game more accessible to a new generation of players.
Platform Availability
Here’s a breakdown of where you can experience GoldenEye 007:
- Nintendo Switch: The original GoldenEye 007 is available through the Nintendo Switch Online service. This version offers a faithful recreation of the Nintendo 64 classic, including its original controls and online multiplayer functionality. It does not include the modernized control scheme that is present on the Xbox version.
- Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S: The remastered version of GoldenEye 007 is accessible on these consoles via Xbox Game Pass. The Xbox version comes with a modernized control scheme, updated visuals, a smoother framerate, and includes achievements, but does not include online multiplayer. Additionally, players who own the digital copy of Rare Replay can download the game at no extra cost.
Notable Absence: PlayStation
Despite its wide reach on other platforms, GoldenEye 007 remains absent from the PlayStation consoles, specifically the PS4 and PS5. This is due to licensing reasons, as Sony was never a license holder of the original game (like Nintendo) or the owner of the developer that made it (like Microsoft).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I play the original GoldenEye on modern consoles?
Yes, you can play the original GoldenEye 007 on the Nintendo Switch through the Nintendo Switch Online service.
2. Is GoldenEye 007 remastered on all platforms?
The remastered version of GoldenEye 007 is available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. The Nintendo Switch version is the original Nintendo 64 version.
3. Why isn’t GoldenEye available on PlayStation?
The absence of GoldenEye 007 on PlayStation is primarily due to licensing restrictions and historical ownership of the game’s development. Sony was neither the license holder of the original game (like Nintendo), nor the owner of the developer, Rare, that created it (like Microsoft).
4. Is GoldenEye better on Xbox or Switch?
Both versions offer distinct advantages. The Xbox version has superior controls and runs smoother with upgraded visuals and frame rate. The Switch version has online multiplayer and offers a closer experience to the original game with retro controls and slightly better audio. Neither version does full justice to the legacy of the original game.
5. Is GoldenEye 007 free on Xbox?
GoldenEye 007 is available through Xbox Game Pass. Additionally, players who own the digital copy of Rare Replay can download the game at no extra cost.
6. Does the remastered GoldenEye 007 include online multiplayer?
The remastered version of GoldenEye 007 available on Xbox consoles does not include online multiplayer. However, the Nintendo Switch version, being the original Nintendo 64 version, does have online multiplayer via the Nintendo Switch Online service.
7. What are the main differences between the Xbox and Switch versions of GoldenEye?
The Xbox version has updated visuals, a smoother framerate, a modern control scheme and includes achievements. The Nintendo Switch version is the original Nintendo 64 game with its original control scheme and offers online multiplayer.
8. Which version of GoldenEye has the modernized controls?
The Xbox version of GoldenEye 007 has the modern first-person shooter control scheme.
9. Was GoldenEye ever banned?
Yes, GoldenEye 007 was banned in Germany for several years due to its violent content and perceived glorification of violence, particularly due to its perceived potential harm to minors. It was later removed from the German list of “Media Harmful to Young Persons” in late 2021.
10. Is the Gold PP7 the strongest gun in GoldenEye?
Yes, the Gold PP7 is widely considered the most powerful weapon in GoldenEye 007, possessing the same damage as the Golden Gun, but with a full clip and no need to reload if you miss your first shot.
11. What is considered the hardest level in GoldenEye?
The level “Aztec” is widely regarded as the hardest mission in GoldenEye 007 due to its complex and confusing layout and is frequently cited as one of the most difficult levels in video game history.
12. Is GoldenEye 007 still worth playing today?
Yes, many players agree that GoldenEye 007 is still worth playing today. While it’s a 25+ year old game, the remastered versions include quality-of-life improvements that make it relevant to a modern audience. Its solid gameplay, unique soundtrack, and nostalgic charm are still as potent as they were when it was first released.
13. What does the “M” stand for in James Bond?
In James Bond lore, “M” stands for the title given to Bond’s boss, the head of MI6, later revealed to be Vice Admiral Sir Miles Messervy. In recent films, M has been portrayed by a woman, Judi Dench.
14. Was Pierce Brosnan the fifth James Bond actor?
Yes, Pierce Brosnan was announced as the fifth actor to portray James Bond in 1994.
15. What is the age rating for GoldenEye 64?
GoldenEye 007 is rated “Teen” due to its first-person shooter perspective, featuring violence with guns, grenades, and hand-to-hand combat.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of James Bond, GoldenEye 007 offers a compelling experience across its available platforms. The ability to play both the original and a remastered version ensures that players can enjoy this classic title in their preferred way. While the game’s absence on PlayStation may disappoint some, its availability on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S ensures that GoldenEye 007‘s legacy lives on for a new generation of gamers to enjoy.