Nintendo has rolled out an exciting update for fans of the high-speed racing game F-Zero 99, officially marking the arrival of version 1.5.0. This latest update, released on October 1, 2024, introduces a host of new features, including five thrilling tracks from the classic BS F-ZERO GRAND PRIX and a special one-year anniversary event.
New Tracks and Features
The update adds five new tracks that are sure to enhance the racing experience. These tracks—MUTE CITY IV, SAND STORM I, BIG BLUE II, SAND STORM II, and SILENCE II—are derived from the Ace League of the BS F-ZERO GRAND PRIX, which was initially available through the Super Famicom’s Satellaview service. Alongside the new tracks, the Grand Prix Ace League has also been integrated into the game.
Players can now enjoy an expanded Practice Mode that allows them to hone their skills on the newly introduced Ace League tracks. Additionally, a Grand Prix Ace League tab has been added to the leaderboard, providing a platform for players to track their progress and achievements in this competitive mode.
For those looking to dive deeper into the game, track information related to the Ace League has been added to the TRACKS and PRIX sections in the Workshop. Completing the Grand Prix Ace League will reward players with a unique decal inspired by the BS F-ZERO GRAND PRIX machine, adding a collectible aspect to the gameplay.
One-Year Anniversary Event
In celebration of F-Zero 99’s one-year anniversary, Nintendo is hosting a limited-time event packed with rewards. Players can earn a total of 12 exclusive anniversary badges, backdrops, borders, and emotes. To participate, players need to match at least one Lucky Rank, which is updated daily, to receive one of the anniversary rewards. For those who manage to collect all 12 items, a bonus decal for each machine will be unlocked, enhancing customization options.
During the anniversary event, players will notice that Ace League tracks will appear more frequently, creating more opportunities to race on these exciting new circuits. To keep track of their progress, players can press the L Button on the Main Menu, which will display the status of their anniversary rewards and the remaining time for the event.
For players who may miss out on the anniversary rewards during the event, there’s good news. Any items that could not be obtained during the event will still be available through regular Lucky Ranks after the event concludes. Furthermore, the unlock requirements for bonus decals will remain in effect, allowing dedicated players to continue their pursuit of rewards.
Once players have collected all the one-year anniversary items during the event, they will revert to regular Lucky Rank rewards. Additionally, any Bounty Chips earned from Lucky Ranks prior to the event will be retained, ensuring that players can seamlessly continue their progress when the event ends.
New Emote Features
As part of the anniversary celebration, players will also receive four new emotes as a gift upon launching the game. This update introduces a feature that allows players to customize which emotes they wish to enable during gameplay. Players can access this feature through the Workshop menu by selecting EMOTES, where they can set their preferences.
Moreover, players can now configure their emotes to automatically display at specific times, adding a layer of personalization to their racing experience. This new functionality not only enhances player interaction but also adds a fun element to the competitive nature of the game.
F-Zero 99 continues to evolve, offering players fresh content and engaging features that keep the racing experience exhilarating and new. With the introduction of new tracks, an exciting anniversary event, and enhanced emote capabilities, players have plenty to look forward to in this beloved franchise.
