Every F-Zero Game, Ranked (2024)

F-Zero is one of the coolest Nintendo series ever. This futuristic sci-fi racer debuted on the Super Nintendo in 1991 and has been a technical marvel on every console it appeared on. After a nearly two-decade-long hiatus, F-Zero triumphantly returned in September 2023 thanks to F-Zero 99 for Nintendo Switch.

Most people recognize Captain Falcon thanks to his famous Falcon Punch attack from the Super Smash Bros games, so it's easy to forget that he and his series have been around even longer than Mario Kart. Almost every F-Zero game is worth playing, so if you want to see the F-Zero games ranked, buckle up for one thrill after the other.

8 F-Zero Maximum Velocity Is A Swing And A Miss

F-Zero’s first handheld outing is a mixed bag. Maximum Velocity is a spiritual successor to the original F-Zero game, with graphics, level design, and gameplay perfectly mimicking the SNES classic. While it’s impressive for the Game Boy Advance, it feels like a step back for the series since it’s missing much of what the N64 installment added three years prior, including the spin attack and risk-versus-reward boost mechanic.

The most baffling omission is the lack of returning F-Zero characters, including Captain Falcon. Instead, there’s a new cast to choose from while you race through four new Grand Prix cups. Zooming past your opponents at high speeds is as exhilarating as ever, but the lack of content and depth ensures that Maximum Velocity is far from the best F-Zero game.

7 F-Zero Started A Legend

It's impossible to talk about the best F-Zero games without mentioning the one that started it all. The original F-Zero was a launch title for Super Nintendo and showed the world what this fancy new piece of hardware was capable of. While it seems bare-bones today compared to its sequels, this 16-bit classic is still worth revisiting.

F-Zero created some of the most iconic racing tracks of all time, and they're still a joy to speed through. Each stage has a variety of devilishly placed traps and obstacles to keep you on your toes, ensuring each race feels unique and exciting. The gameplay isn't as complex as its sequels, but the original F-Zero still provides plenty of fast-paced, action-packed fun.

6 F-Zero Climax Takes A Big Leap Forward

It’s a shame that F-Zero Climax is Japan-exclusive because it’s a major improvement over Maximum Velocity. The gameplay perfectly blends SNES-inspired level designs with mechanics from F-Zero X on N64. The spin attack and risk-versus-reward boost system are back and add much-needed depth and strategy to the gameplay.

Captain Falcon and other fan-favorite characters finally return after being absent in Maximum Velocity. As the cherry on top, the visuals get a refreshing new coat of paint with more detailed textures and sprites. It may not be the best F-Zero game, but F-Zero Climax is worth trying if you can track down a copy.

5 F-Zero AX Is An Arcade Classic

F-Zero AX launched for arcades in Japan, North America, and Europe, making it the trickiest F-Zero game to find. If you come across one at an arcade, get ready for a heck of a ride. The machine is designed to look like the co*ckpit of Captain Falcon’s ship, complete with a steering wheel you use to speed through several exclusive tracks.

As a bonus, if you bring a GameCube memory card with data from F-Zero GX, you can transfer custom ships to the arcade machine. The gameplay is almost identical to F-Zero GX, with more of an arcade feel to give it a little individuality. Plus, sitting in the Blue Falcon while you zoom into first place makes for the most immersive experience in the series.

4 F-Zero GP Legend Is The Best F-Zero Game On Game Boy Advance

The Game Boy Advance F-Zero games get better with each installment, and F-Zero GP Legend is the pinnacle of the GBA trilogy. Not only was this the last F-Zero game before the series' hiatus, but it's also a tie-in to the F-Zero anime.

If you need a break from the Grand Prix, there's a story mode with eight campaigns, each with unique missions, cutscenes, and stories. Missions range from destroying an enemy ship, helping an ally during an intense car chase, and reaching the finish line within the time limit. There's a ton of content and fantastic tracks, making it the best F-Zero game on the Game Boy Advance.

3 F-Zero 99 Revived The Series

For almost 20 years, it seemed like there would never be a new F-Zero game. F-Zero fans finally breathed a sigh of relief when Nintendo shadow-dropped F-Zero 99 for Nintendo Switch. It's not the big HD comeback most people hoped for, but don't let that discourage you. This title is one of the best F-Zero games by far.

F-Zero 99 adds a battle royal twist to the series, putting you and 98 other players in a chaotic free-for-all as you race for first place. The game pays homage to the SNES title with gorgeous pixel art that adds some modern pizzazz to the sprites. Races are short yet thrilling, making it the perfect game to pick up and play. Don’t sleep on this one if you have a Nintendo Switch Online account.

2 F-Zero GX Is A Must-Play GameCube Game

Picture this: you're racing down a road at ridiculous speeds when gravity starts to shift, and you're suddenly upside down with the road above and the sky below. Welcome to F-Zero GX, the series’ fastest and most intense game.

F-Zero GX has some of the most adrenaline-pumping, exhilarating tracks in racing game history. The game always finds new twists to throw at you, like antigravity segments and a mercilessly challenging story mode that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The difficulty curve may be too much for some people, but if you're up for the challenge, GX is one of the best F-Zero games and a must-play for GameCube owners.

1 F-Zero X Is The Best F-Zero Game

F-Zero GX may have the fancier graphics, but nothing beats this N64 masterpiece. F-Zero X is the video game equivalent to required reading if you have the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pass. It's beyond astounding that something this fast-paced can run on the N64, and the hardcore metal soundtrack never fails to get your heart pounding.

F-Zero X stands out from its GameCube successor because of its difficulty, which feels challenging without being unfair. The tracks are the most engaging and memorable in the series, and with 30 racers to choose from, there's a ton of replay value. It's the best F-Zero game and the perfect entry point for the series.

NEXT: The Best Racing Games, Ranked By How Terrifying They’d Be To Participate In