Perspective and graphics:
The game takes place in a 2D side-scrolling perspective. The player rides a motorcycle on different tracks full of obstacles and jumps. The graphics are simple, but they were very innovative for their time.
Goal of the game:
The goal is to finish the race in the shortest time, avoiding obstacles and other motorcyclists. In addition to speed, it is important to pay attention to the temperature of the engine, because overheating causes loss of time.
Controls:
The player controls the speed and incline of the motorcycle. There are four basic controls: Acceleration, braking, tilt forward and backward (to control jumps), a turbo button for extra acceleration - but it increases the temperature of the engine.
Obstacles:
The tracks are filled with various obstacles such as jumps, holes, mud sections and other motorcyclists. The player must avoid these obstacles in order to maintain speed and complete the course without incident.
Engine temperature:
Using the turbo button increases the engine temperature too much. If the engine overheats, the motorcycle stalls until the engine cools down, significantly slowing progress.
Track design:
"Excitebike" allows players to design their own tracks in the "Design Mode" game mode. This allowed for great creativity, as players could create their own tracks with different obstacles and challenges.
Game modes:
Selection A: Solo races where the player drives against time.
Selection B: Races against other drivers where the player has to pay attention to the competition, not only the time.
Design Mode: A game mode where players can create their own tracks.
Weight:
As the game progresses, the tracks become more difficult, with more complex obstacles and greater challenges. Good coordination and planning is required to achieve the best results.
The game Excitebike laid the foundation for many future racing games. It is recognized for its simple but fun gameplay, as well as for its innovative way of designing tracks. The game has become a cult classic and has appeared in numerous Nintendo collections and re-releases for various platforms such as Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, Wii and Nintendo Switch.
