The Nintendo 64 had no shortage of colorful, charming platformers, but Yoshi’s Story stands out as one of the most visually distinct and charming games on the system. Released in 1997, this follow-up to Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island embraced a unique, storybook aesthetic that looked like an explosion in a Crayola factory—in the best possible way. From its endearing art style to its addictive soundtrack, Yoshi’s Story is a game that sticks with you long after you’ve put down the controller.
A Visual and Auditory Delight
Even by today’s standards, Yoshi’s Story is visually stunning. While the N64 was known for its blocky polygons and blurry textures, this game took a different approach, featuring a handcrafted, pop-up book style filled with bright colors, fabric textures, and charmingly animated environments. It still looks like a living storybook, making it one of the most timelessly beautiful games on the system.
The music is another highlight. The cheerful, sometimes absurdly catchy tunes will ingrain themselves in your brain, playing on a permanent loop long after you’ve stopped playing. Each level’s theme perfectly complements its setting, whether it’s a joyful bounce through grassy meadows or an eerie, dreamlike trek through shadowy caves.
Simple Yet Satisfying Gameplay
At its core, Yoshi’s Story is a relatively simple platformer, but that doesn’t mean it lacks depth. Rather than a traditional level-based progression, the game challenges players to explore and collect fruit to complete levels, with the goal of making Yoshi as happy as possible. While it may not be the most complex game on the system, the fast-paced platforming, hidden secrets, and the strategic choice of which fruit to eat add a surprising amount of replayability.
The controls are tight, making it easy to run, jump, and flutter through levels. The egg-throwing mechanic remains as fun as ever, allowing for precise shots and clever puzzle-solving. While the challenge isn’t overwhelming, completionists will find plenty to dig into, as unlocking every level and achieving the highest scores requires skill and strategy.
Final Verdict
While some may argue that Yoshi’s Story is too short or too easy, it delivers exactly what it sets out to: a fun, visually stunning, and irresistibly charming platformer that feels like pure joy to play. It may not have the same level of depth as some other N64 platformers, but its unique style and unforgettable soundtrack ensure it remains a beloved classic.
If you’re looking for a game that’s bursting with charm and personality, Yoshi’s Story is a must-play. 5 stars out of 5.
BCB Collects 