Spiritual sequel to Wave Race 64, jet-ski races with proper wave feel and dynamic weather. Top-tier water sensation, technical courses and visuals stunning for their time. Light on long-term content but the core stays enchanting. Too often underrated.
Your verdict
Category
Racing1 player3+
Description
Jet-ski riders race waves in this Nintendo GameCube Wave Race Blue Storm. Published by Nintendo, released in Japan in May 2002. Jet-ski simulation with realistic water physics, varied circuits in different weather conditions and competitive modes.
Wave Race - Blue Storm review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
4/5
Music
★★★★★
"Excellent"
1/5
Story
★★★★★
"Anecdotal"
Blue Storm makes water its visual star: dynamic waves that swell and rear up, wakes, spray and shifting weather, from bright sun to fog and storm. The jet ski hugs every swell in a then-stunning liquid rendering. An art direction centered on water simulation, a technical showcase of Nintendo's craft at the console's launch.
The soundtrack wraps the water races in sunny energy: catchy rock-electro rhythms, vitamin-charged melodies and swells that match the jet skis' speed. The music sustains the sporty, summery mood, between carefree fun and the adrenaline of the waves. A peppy, refreshing accompaniment, true to the fun spirit of the Wave Race franchise.
Gameplay
"Excellent"
Fun
"From the very first minutes"
Addictiveness
"Engaging"
Difficulty
"Balanced"
Lifespan
"Average"
Technical info
💾1 GB📅14/09/2001
Published by Nintendo
Wave Race - Blue Storm (GameCube) price, value & rarity
The Japanese edition of Wave Race Blue Storm is the original pressing of the Nintendo NST game, distributed by Nintendo in Japan. Its collector value comes from the fact that it is the last officially released Wave Race, the franchise having remained on hiatus since this installment.
Is Wave Race - Blue Storm still worth playing in 2026?
A spiritual sequel to Wave Race 64, Blue Storm delivers jet ski racing with a particularly convincing wave physics system. Changing weather conditions modify pilot behaviour during races, creating real tactical variety. The sunny art direction and the fluid rendering remain pleasant. More demanding than its N64 elder, the title asks for mastery but largely rewards the investment. For anyone who loves demanding and fine water based racing, a valid recommendation today still on the Nintendo machine here easily for any newcomer.
