Snowboard Kids 2 (N64)

Game Overview

Building on what made the original game a multiplayer favorite, Snowboard Kids 2 blends traditional snowboarding with wacky, kart-style weapon combat. Players select from a roster of energetic kids—complete with returning favorites and new additions—and race down imaginative downhill tracks packed with jumps, rails, and branching paths.

A defining element of the series is the use of "lifting gear" (snowboards outfitted with engines and items); players must grab money scattered across the course to buy items like frying pans, rocks, and homing missiles to blast opponents out of the lead. The sequel also introduces a dedicated trick system that rewards players for pulling off mid-air grabs and spins, alongside a whimsical story mode featuring cutscenes and diverse boss battles. With its catchy soundtrack, colorful cartoon art style, and fantastic four-player split-screen multiplayer, it remains one of the hidden gems of the N64 library.

Quick Specifications

• Platform: Nintendo 64

• Developer: Racdym

• Publisher: Atlus

• Release Date: February 18, 1999 (Japan), March 31, 1999 (North America), June 1999 (Australia)

• Genre: Arcade Snowboarding / Kart Racing

• Modes: Single-player Story Mode, Time Attack, Multiplayer (up to 4 players)

• Peripheral Support: Nintendo 64 Controller Pak, Rumble Pak

Key Features

• Imaginative Downhill Courses: Race across wildly diverse tracks set in snowy mountains, pirate theme parks, haunted houses, alien worlds, and sunny beaches.

• Chaotic Weapon Mechanics: Collect money during races to purchase offensive items and disrupt your rivals right before the finish line.

• Expanded Trick System: Execute mid-air grabs, spins, and flips to earn extra boost speed and fill your special meter.

• Story Adventure Mode: Experience a whimsical narrative campaign complete with character dialogue, unique objectives, and boss battles.

• Four-Player Couch Multiplayer: Compete against friends in chaotic local split-screen racing and battle modes.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

How do weapons work in Snowboard Kids 2?

Unlike traditional kart racers where items are picked up instantly from boxes, players must collect money on the track and manually purchase items from vending machines placed along the course or use their accumulated cash.

Does Snowboard Kids 2 feature a multiplayer mode?

Yes, the game supports up to four players simultaneously in local split-screen multiplayer, offering both standard races and fun battle mini-games.

How does the trick system work?

By launching off ramps and executing specific combinations of buttons and control stick directions, players can perform aerial tricks that grant speed boosts upon landing safely.

Does the game require a Controller Pak to save progress?

Yes, a Nintendo 64 Controller Pak is necessary to save game progress in Story Mode, high-score records in Time Attack, and unlocked characters or boards.