Hard Route Guide - Star Fox 64 3D Guide - IGN (2024)

One of the most distinguishing features from the original Star Fox 64 was the ability to go alternate routes. Depending on which path you take in a given level, which planet you go to next alters, as do the events that take place leading up to the final fight with Andross. Having a branched progression system that affects the story was a huge achievement back in the N64 days, and remains one of the more memorable parts of the game's legacy.

Not surprisingly, this awesome mechanic is back for the game's remake, Star Fox 64 3D. You can find out more about what we thought of the newest version of this N64 classic in our Star Fox 64 3D review. But in the meantime, we thought we'd help satiate your hunger for all things Star Fox with a quick guide to flying with the best of 'em. Once you get your copy tomorrow (or if you feel like giving your N64 some love), use the following guide to fly the hard route, make Falco proud and face Andross' true form in the final battle.

And don't forget to do a barrel roll while you're at it. Lots of them, in fact.

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Corneria to Sector Y

The first level of any Star Fox 64 playthrough begins with Corneria under attack. The game wastes no time testing players who want to go the hard route -- this is where you'll find your first challenge. After the checkpoint, what you need to do is boost forward to catch up with and destroy the three enemy aircrafts tailing Falco.

A short ways later, you'll come across some water with a series of stone arches. Fly under all seven of them. Halfway through Falco will compliment you on your flying, and after successfully flying through the final one he'll lead you on the secret route through the waterfall and to an alternate boss fight.

Star Fox 64 3D - Falco's Route

Sector Y to Aquas to Zoness

To continue on the hard path, Aquas will be your next goal. All you need to do to earn this path is get 100 or more kills in Sector Y. Once you've arrived on Aquas, you'll get your first chance to pilot Slippy's new invention, the Blue-Marine.

This submarine differs from the Arwing in that you can't charge your laser, but you do have unlimited torpedoes at your disposal. Use them, and use them often. To get to your next stop, Zoness, just make it through Aquas and defeat the boss.

Pretty cool machine, Slippy... but I'll take the sky any day.

Zoness to Sector Z

Hitting all the red lights is the name of the game in Zoness, and that's exactly what you'll need to do to progress to Sector Z. To do so you've got to be quick, miss a single one and you'll be forced to either give up the hard route or restart the level. Zoness is also where you run into Katt, a flirtatious kitty with eyes for Falco. Keep her alive and she'll help you take out the lights.

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Sector Z to Area 6

In Sector Z, the Great Fox is under attack. Oh no! This aircraft serves as the home base for Fox and crew, and it's up to you to keep it free from damage if you want to make it to Venom. To do so, stop the series of missiles that will be lobbed at it throughout the level. At first there will only be one missile to take out, followed by two, then finally three. Since you came from Zoness, Katt will be around to help you fight the good fight. If your beat the level without letting a single one get through, then it's off to the hard version of Venom with you.

Area 6 to Venom

If you went the hard route, you'll face off against team Star Wolf here on Venom. These guys are far more advanced than the other enemies you've faced up until now, so be on your guard. Use u-turns and somersaults to throw them off your tail when they're following you, and keep an eye on the other members of your team, otherwise they're goners.

If you beat Area 6, Fox will move on to face Andross. Only by going the hard route will you get to witness Andross' true form, which is... well, you'll just have to get there yourself to find out.

So there you have it, our guide to going the hard route in Star Fox 64 3D. Of course, you don't have to go this exact route if you don't want to, but it's a fun challenge to put to yourself if you think you have what it takes. Happy flying, folks.

Source: Can You Handle the Hard Route?

Up Next: Boss Fights Guide

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Hard Route Guide - Star Fox 64 3D Guide - IGN (1)

Star Fox 64 3D

Nintendo

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Nintendo 3DS

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Hard Route Guide - Star Fox 64 3D Guide - IGN (2024)
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