All Japanese gaming consoles share one thing in common: a huge library of Japan-only titles that never made it to the US market. The N64 is a marked exception. Unlike the Saturn, Dreamcast, PlayStation or Super NES, the Japanese Nintendo 64 received not only far fewer games, but also far fewer good games. Case in point: Wipeout 64, Rocket, Battle for Naboo, Conker's Bad Fur Day, Ridge Racer 64, Spider-Man, Pokémon Puzzle League, World Driver Championship, The World is Not Enough, StarCraft 64, Vigilante 8, and Rayman 2 never came out in Japan.
It's no surprise then that N64 import gaming is mostly limited to die-hard gamers trying to get certain Nintendo-made titles ahead of time. That's not to say there aren't any good Japan-only N64 games worth importing. You just have to know what to look for. That's where we come in.
On the following pages, we break down all the games worth getting -- and which ones to avoid. If you want to know how to modify your US Nintendo 64 to play Japanese titles, check our Nintendo 64 Import Game Modding Guide.
Top Nintendo 64 Imports
1. Sin & Punishment: Successor to the Earth
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Treasure | Genre: Action | Players: 2
If you're a fan of old-school action shooters, then you owe it to yourself to import this true gem. Developed by Treasure, the same guys who were responsible for Gunstar Heroes and Radiant Silvergun, (and before that Contra and Castlevania for the SNES), Sin & Punishment is a mix between Panzer Dragoon, Galaga and Contra. The game is a bit on the short side, but if it went on any longer, you'd probably blow a fuse. The action in this on-rails shooting extravaganza is beyond intense. While the graphics are a tad too blurry and the voice acting is awful, the special effects and enemy designs are top notch. Best of all, everything is in English. Since Nintendo has still not announced a US version (the game came out last year in Japan), it's time to pay your local import store a visit.
2. Dezaemon 3D
Publisher: Athena | Developer: Athena | Genre: Action/Editor | Players: 2
Why, oh why did Nintendo not release this game in the US? Well, we know why. Nobody would have bought it. Athena's Dezaemon 3D is basically a "build-your-own-shooter" creativity app. Using an extensive graphical menu system, players can create their own levels, cut-scenes, polygon models, backgrounds, textures, enemy AI, and even compose their own music. Whether you want to make a Star Fox clone, an overhead shooter or a sidescroller, if you can think it up, you can build it. While the menus are all in English, the tutorial and manual are in Japanese which means you will have to invest quite some time to figure it all out. But if you've always dreamt of making your own game, this is your best chance.
3. Doubutsu no Mori (Animal Crossing)
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1 (with trade options)
The last first-party title to be released for the Japanese N64 is also one of the quirkiest. Billed as a communication game, players are free to roam about a small forest community, talk to animals, run chores and slowly learn what peace and harmony are all about. While there is tons of Japanese text to wade through, the gameplay is very rewarding. The graphics are typical Nintendo fare ¿ cute, but imaginative enough to appeal to older gamers as well. But perhaps the most attractive part of the game to foreign players are the many emulated NES classics you can play as you progress through the game. The game was rereleased in updated form on GameCube.
4. Custom Robo and Custom Robo V2
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Noise (Marigul) | Genre: Action | Players: 2 and 4
Think Virtua On meets Pokémon. Although the gameplay is very "US-friendly", Nintendo was too chicken to bring either Custom Robo game stateside, probably because of the SNES-style 2D map graphics. The story mode has you challenge rival Robo owners to duels against your own custom mech. Every win yields a new weapon or enhancement for your robot, which you can then also use in the game's excellent two-player versus mode. V2 has a four-player tag-team mode and a longer story mode, but gameplay-wise and graphically both titles are the same. There is plenty of Japanese text in the story mode, but it's easy to figure out what to do even if you don't know Japanese.
5. F-Zero Expansion Kit
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo | Genre: Racing/Level Editor | Players: 4
This is one of two reasons to own a 64DD. Design your own tracks, cars and Championship from scratch, then race your buddies or the 29 computer opponents on your new creations. The industrial-strength track editor is the high point of the package, but the new stereo tunes and bonus courses aren't anything to scoff at either. If you're an F-Zero fan, this add-on disk is a must-have. Sadly, 64DDs are already scarce in Japan, so you may have to search high and low to get your hands on one. Remember that you need the Japanese version of F-Zero X to run the Expansion Kit. The US edition won't work with the 64DD.
6. Mario Artist: Talent Studio
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo | Genre: Who knows? | Players: 1
Talent Studio was essentially NCL's killer app for the 64DD. This hilarious "game" includes a capture cartridge device that lets you import a face snapshot and use it to build a virtual character. Using hundreds of clothes and accessories, you then dress up your little Frankenstein and watch him or her (or it) perform on screen. You can even use your characters to create simple movies, complete with sound, music and special effects. Sounds complicated -- but the graphical interface is so easy to use that anyone can figure it out after a few minutes.
7. Tetris 64
Publisher: Seta | Developer: Amtex | Genre: Puzzle | Players: 4
If it wasn't for the lackluster presentation and sound, Tetris 64 (aka Bio Tetris) would be the clear winner of the Nintendo 64 puzzle wars. But even if it can't compete with the slick presentation and score of The New Tetris, Tetris 64 eclipses them all with a better four-player mode and much more gameplay variety. To round off the whole package, this oddball title is compatible with a Bio Sensor that uses your heart rate to either slow down or speed up the gameplay (depending on whether you want to relax or get excited). It's a bit hard to find nowadays, but if you see this game for a reasonable price in an import store, grab it before it's gone forever.
8. Nushi Tsuri 64
Publisher: Victor Interactive | Developer: Pack-in Soft | Genre: Fishing-RPG (that's totally a thing) | Players: 1
Who would have thought that a fishing game could be this fun -- and this deep! Once slated for US release as Legend of the River King 64, this Japan-only RPG/fishing game from the makers of Harvest Moon combines lifelike 3D graphics of fish and insects with horribly outdated 2D map graphics. There's plenty of Japanese text, as you're required to put together your own equipment and talk to countless NPCs. Unlike other fishing games which are all about catching the biggest fish in the lake, this game is essentially about "catching 'em all". A sequel is also available, but although it features improved graphics, it isn't quite as charming as it lacks many of the original's RPG elements.
9. Susume!! Taisen Puzzle Dama
Publisher: Konami | Developer: Konami | Genre: Puzzle | Players: 2
The anime-inspired 2D graphics of this Puyo Puyo-like puzzle game may not appeal to a mainstream audience, but few players can put this one down after giving it a try. Like with all puzzle games, speed is important ¿ but pre-planning combos and chains is what separates a novice from a master. The Parodius-style characters are seriously funny, if a bit on the "are you sure this isn't too much, Anoop?" frightening side... If you mostly play puzzle games alone or with one other player, Taisen Puzzle Dama even beats out PuyoPuyon Party. But if it's four-player puzzle action you seek, stick with Tetris 64 or PuyoPuyon.
10. Bakuretsu Muteki Bangaioh
Publisher: ESP | Developer: Treasure | Genre: Action | Players: 1
Did you know that Mischief Makers and Sin & Punishment weren't Treasure's only N64 games? Released only in very limited numbers, Bakuretsu Muteki Bangaioh falls somewhere in between an action shooter and a puzzle game. Players steer a tiny flying mech through extensive mazes littered with enemies and turrets. The game's 2D graphics make it look more like a left-over from the 16-bit days -- but the action once again hits the mark. A true collector's item, due to the low release numbers. A Dreamcast version also exists.
More Japanese N64 Imports (Honorable Mentions)
Although they didn't make our Top 10, here are a couple of other quality titles that are worth a look. Dance like Minnie! Yeah!
Dance Dance Revolution: Disney's Dancing Museum
Publisher: Konami | Developer: KCEK | Genre: Dancing Game | Players: 2
A great game for kids, but only if you also buy the dancing mat controller. Grown-ups beware, the midi renditions of the Disney tunes will quickly drive you crazy. You can play the game with the standard N64 controller, but it doesn't take much skill then.
Japan Pro Golf Tour 64 (64DD)
Publisher: Seta | Developer: Media Factory | Genre: Sports | Players: 4
This is the best golf game on N64. Too bad it's on the 64DD, where very few gamers got to play it. Japan Pro Golf was compatible with Nintendo's Randnet DD service, so you could even participate in world-wide rankings and online tournaments.
J-League Eleven Beat 1997
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Sports | Players: 4
Simple but fun super-deformed soccer action. Worth a look if you like action-oriented multiplayer sports games. Don't expect in-depth gameplay like in the ISS series -- think more along the line of the old Konami arcade sports games.
Mario Artist: Paint Studio (64DD)
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo/Software Creations | Genre: Editor | Players: 4
The 64-bit version of Mario Paint may have lost some of its appeal due to the availability of PC art programs, but it's still a very well designed creativity app. Plenty of stuff to do -- especially good for kids. You don't need to know Japanese to understand it.
Shigesato Itoi's #1 Bass Fishing
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: HAL | Genre: Fishing | Players: 1
Not to be outdone by US developers, Nintendo's second party HAL created this strange, yet very realistic bass 3D fishing simulation starring 2D animals. The makers of Kirby are in unfamiliar territory, but the fishing engine is still very convincing.
Mysterious Dungeon 64: Shiren the Wanderer
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: ChunSoft | Genre: RPG | Players: 1
This latest installment in Chun Soft's RPG franchise is a quality game, but you need to be proficient in Japanese to enjoy it. Sadly, the first batch of carts had a fatal crash bug in it.
Rakuga Kids
Publisher: Konami | Developer: KCEO | Genre: Fighting | Players: 2
You either love it, or hate it. Konami's 2D fighter takes its inspirations from both Street Fighter and PaRappa the Rapper. Good two-player action, but the design isn't for everyone. A PAL version was also released to limited success.
Nushi Tsuri 64 2 / Legend of the Sea King
Publisher: Victor Interactive | Developer: Pack-in Soft | Genre: Fishing | Players: 1
The sequel to Legend of the River King drops the RPG elements, but still features enjoyable ocean fishing and great polygonal fish models. The scrolling is smooth this time around, but somehow the game isn't as fun to play as the original.
Puyo Puyon Party
Publisher: Compile | Developer: Compile | Genre: Puzzle | Players: 4
Both Puyo Puyo Sun 64 and this four-player sequel are great puzzle games that are worth owning. If only they had slapped the Kirby or Mario license on this one -- and left Doctor Mario alone... Simple graphics, but great characters make #4 (Hence Puyo Pu"yon" -- yon is Japanese for "four") one of the best installments in the series.
Jikkyo Powerful Pro Baseball
Publisher: Konami | Developer: KCEO | Genre: Sports | Players: 4
Konami's long-running series never made it out here because of the big-head character designs. That's a real shame, because the Powerful Pro games are truly excellent. The latest in the series is Jikkyo Powerful Pro Baseball Basic 2001.Hey, it's WWF No Mercy with Japanese guys!
Virtual Pro-Wrestling 1 & 2
Publisher: Asmik | Developer: Aki | Genre: Wrestling | Players: 4
The Japanese versions of THQ's wrestling games may have not have the same wrestlers, but they usually had more options and better modes. However, each new US release improved over the Japanese version ¿ so only get VPW if you're into Japanese wrestling.
Bomberman 64
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Racjin | Genre: Battle | Players: 4
Not to be confused with the Bomberman 64 released in the west (which is known as Baku Bomberman in Japan), this was actually the last game to come up for N64 in Japan (in 2001). It's a return to the classic 2D gameplay from N64's predecessors.
Middle of the Road Imports
The following games aren't bad, especially if you can pick them up for a few bucks. Don't spend too much money, though.
Air Boarder 64
Publisher: ASCII | Developer: ASCII | Genre: Action | Players: 2
Agetec was so close to releasing this game in the US, Nintendo Power actually reviewed it. Good thing it never came out as this hoverboarding game is merely average. A PAL version with a slightly changed soundtrack also made it out, but NTSC gamers will have to import if they want to play this mediocre alternative to Tony Hawk.
Choro-Q 64 2
Publisher: Takara | Developer: Takara | Genre: RacingPlayers: 4
The sequel to Choro Q, which was released in the US as Penny Racers, is more of the same. Not a great game, but a fun diversion for fans of miniature car racing.
Densha De Go! 64
Publisher: Taito | Developer: Taito | Genre: Simulation
Players: 1
There's even a train controller to go along with this JR train and subway simulation. Sadly, gameplay is very limited, and not just because trains are stuck on rails.
Doraemon 2 & 3
Publisher: Epoch | Developer: Epoch | Genre: Adventure | Players: 1
Epoch's two sequels to the original Doraemon Mario 64 clone add more adventure elements, and consequently have more appeal than their bland predecessor.
Famista 64
Publisher: Namco | Developer: Namco | Genre: Sports | Players: 2
Namco tested the waters with this SD baseball game and quickly bowed out of N64 publishing when the title didn't sell. Fun game, but Konami's Powerful Pro Series is better.
GI Stable
Publisher: Konami | Developer: Konami | Genre: Sports | Players: 4
Konami's SD horse racing sim isn't bad, but it's doubtful that it will find many fans outside of Japan. Unlike you like raising and betting on tiny, fat horses.
Goemon Mononoke Sugoroku
Publisher: Konami | Developer: Konami | Genre: Board Game | Players: 4
Yes, it's only a board game. But it stars Goemon characters and is actually a lot of fun if you put some time into it.Knock the graphics all you want. The game's not bad at all.
Hoh no Challenger: Denryu Ira Ira Bou
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Action | Players: 2
Stands for Burning Challenger: Irritating Electric Stick. The graphics are beyond boring, but the parlor game inspired action is actually quite fun.
J-League Dynamite Soccer
Publisher: Imagineer | Developer: Genki | Genre: Sports | Players: 2
Another super-deformed soccer title, this time from Imagineer. Not as good as Eleven Beat, but not a bad game overall.A neat 64DD game with major control issues.
Kyojin no Doshin
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Param (Marigul) | Genre: Adventure | Players: 1
Param's 64DD title shows glimpses of ingenious game design, but the controls and cameras bring the game down a few notches. This Doshin the Giant game never made it out on N64.
Kokuukan Naita: Pro Baseball King 1 & 2
Publisher: Imagineer | Developer: Genki | Genre: Sports | Players: 2
Not to be confused with Konami's Powerful Pro series, these Imagineer SD baseball games are decent, but not great.SimCity for the 64DD (not SimCity 2000).
SimCity 64
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: HAL | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1
This 64DD of the classic city building sim has some awesome new features, but the sluggish graphics earn this one a "for fans only" warning.
Power League 64
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Sports | Players: 2
The N64's very first realistic baseball sim. Not as good as All-Star Baseball or Ken Griffey, but a valid first attempt from Hudson.Before Mario Tennis, there was Let's Smash.
Let's Smash Tennis
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Sports | Players: 4
Also released in Europe, this cutesy tennis game lost most its appeal once Mario Tennis came out. An average game with some outlandish courts and a character creator.
Super Robot Battle (Taisen)
Publisher: Bandai | Developer: Banpresto | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1
Turn-based combat simulation featuring the (in Japan) ultra-popular mech characters. The graphics may be ugly, but the gameplay is surprisingly good.
Super Robot Spirits
Publisher: Bandai | Developer: Banpresto | Genre: Fighting | Players: 2
Super Robot Spirits is a somewhat sluggish fighting game with flying mechs. There are some good ideas here, but the execution could have been much better. To be honest, this one almost slipped into the "avoid at all costs" category, but some of the special moves are pretty cool.
J-League Tactics Soccer
Publisher: Athena | Developer: Athena | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1
This soccer RPG/sim is packed with details and micromanagement, but why can't someone build one of these games around a great soccer engine (like Konami's ISS/Jikkyo, for example)? Don't mistake this game for a standard soccer game. It's not about actually playing -- it's more akin to a roleplaying game than a sports title.
Wonder Project J2
Publisher: Enix | Developer: Enix | Genre: Adventure | Players: 1
One of only two games Enix created for the N64, this sequel to the SNES character RPG can be amusing if you know Japanese, but it's far too short. The big difference to the predecessor? The main character is a girl (ooooo!) -- and there are a few polygonal cut-scenes in addition to all the 2D anime-inspired artwork.
Don't Touch!
The following titles aren't worth your while. Collectors only, please. Nooooo! A Tamagotchi game!
64 De Hakken! Tamagotchi
Publisher: Bandai | Developer: Bandai | Genre: Board Game | Players: 4
Just as forgettable as the bleeping pet fad that swept Kindergartens a few ears ago. Nice presentation, but limited board game gameplay.
64 Hanafuda
Publisher: Altron | Developer: Altron | Genre:Players: 2
Is there really a reason why you would want to play a Japanese Hanafuda card game with such a bad interface on your N64? Come on!
64 Oozumo 1&2
Publisher: Bottom-Up | Developer: Bottom-Up | Genre: Simulation | Players: 2
A good Sumo simulation would be a welcome addition to the N64 lineup. Sadly, these two super-deformed sumo management sims are sloppy and unappealing.
64 Trump Card Collection
Publisher: Altron | Developer: Altron | Genre: Card Game | Players: 4
Yawn. Play 13 different card games on your Nintendo 64. Alternatively, you could also buy a real card deck for a buck and save yourself some money.
Doraemon
Publisher: Epoch | Developer: Epoch | Genre: Adventure | Players: 4
Uninspired Super Mario 64 clone starring the popular blue cartoon cat robot. The two sequels are marginally better.
Eiko no St. Andrews (St. Andrews Old Course Golf)
Publisher: Seta | Developer: Seta | Genre: Sports | Players: 2
Holds the dubious honor of being the worst golf game on Nintendo 64. The famous St. Andrews Old Course has never looked uglier.
Getter Love!
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1
A dating sim with more Japanese text than the Kojiki. I've tried to find something good in this game, but had to give up... Getter out of here!Perhaps one of the worst pieces of software on N64 (and 64DD).
Kyojin no Doshin -- Kaihou Sensen Chibikko Chikko Daishuugou
Publisher: Param (Marigul) | Developer: Param (Marigul) | Genre: None | Players: 1
Aaaah! What is this abomination? If you happen to buy a 64DD and this add-on disk is included, lock it away immediately so that nobody gets hurt!
Heiwa Pachinko World 64
Publisher: Shouei System | Developer: Shouei System | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1
Woohoo, a Pachinko sim. Sorry, but playing for virtual prizes just isn't the same. If I can't have that coffee machine, I don't want to subject myself to million silver ball Hell.
Last Legion UX
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Action | Players: 2
A mech battle game for up to two players that was once scheduled for US release. The bland graphics ruin any feel of excitement.
Pachinko 365 Days
Publisher: Seta | Developer: Seta | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1
Better than Heiwa Pachinko World... but again, Pachinko isn't exactly such a captivating game that it deserves its own title. Gets boring after one, not 365 days.No control. Just like watching anime.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Publisher: Bandai | Developer: Bandai | Genre: Action | Players: 1
Don't even get this game if you are a fan of the anime. This "interactive cartoon" makes Dragon's Lair look like Mario 64.
Shin Nihon Pro Wrestling: Toukon Road 1 & 2
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Wrestling | Players: 4
The New Japan wrestling league license is the best thing about these Hudson games. The gameplay is so-so and the graphics are nasty.The title screen. The best things about this game.
Onegai Monsters
Publisher: Bottom-Up | Developer: Bottom-Up | Genre: RPG | Players: 1
Everyone wants to cash in on Pokémon. The name relation didn't work for "Onemon", a sub-par RPG from the makers of 64 Oozumo.
SimCity 2000
Publisher: Imagineer | Developer: Genki | Genre: Simulation | Players: 1
Everything is wrong in this lackluster port of the PC classic. The flicker graphics will give you a seizure within minutes.
Super B-Daman: Battle Phoenix 64
Publisher: Hudson | Developer: Hudson | Genre: Action | Players: 2
Another gun game without a gun controller. There are better mini-games in Donkey Kong 64 and Jet Force Gemini.Can you read that? No? Then don't import this "game."
Yakouchuu II
Publisher: Athena | Developer: Athena | Genre: Graphic Novel | Players: 1
Athena's graphic/sound novel plays out a murder mystery on a cruise ship. Don't buy this unless you are 100% fluent in Japanese and think shelling out $60 for a novel with midi music is a good idea.
Ultraman Battle Collection
Publisher: Bandai | Developer: Bandai | Genre: RPG | Players: 1
Woooah, what is this smell? Don't import this game! It's great for a few laughs, but please don't shell out money to play this turd of a strategy game. Another flawed RPG for the N64.
Zool
Publisher: Imagineer | Developer: Imagineer | Genre: RPG | Players: 1
Often mistakenly called Zoor (Zool combines the words Zoo and school), this lackluster RPG effort from the makers of Quest 64 will bore you to tears. Don't import this one.
Japan vs. USA: Nintendo 64 Game Differences
Did you know that there are some differences in certain games that were released in both territories? Apart from the fact that almost all Japanese box art eclipses the US designs, here are some of the most important ones:
Harukanaru Augusta Masters '98
Nintendo changed the featured course to Waialae and released it here as Waiaelae Golf. Still only one course, though.
Super Smash Bros.
The (older) Japanese version is superior to the US one. NOA messed with some of the sound effects to make the battles appear less violent. Plus, the laser swords sound like lightsabers.
Goemon's Great Adventure
The US version doesn't feature many of the delightful digitized songs that appear in the Japanese release.
Pokémon Stadium
The original Japanese Pokémon Stadium only featured a third of the Pokémon available in the GB games. Pokémon Stadium 2, which was released in the US as Pokémon Stadium, fixed this limitation.
Pokémon Stadium 2
The US version features changed championships and a Snap mode absent from the Japanese release.
Top Gear Rally
The Japanese release was improved over the US version. Many bugs were fixed and Kemco added an EEPROM to save your game on cart.
Super Mario 64
The US version was improved with more voice samples and bug fixes, but NCL later re-released the US Super Mario 64 with Rumble Pak support in Japan as Shindou ("Rumble") Super Mario 64.
Wave Race 64
Like Mario 64, this game was also re-released in Japan with Rumble Pak support (Shindou Wave Race 64).
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Blood in a Nintendo game? Yep, Japanese players got to see Ganon bleed red in the final battle. No big deal, though. US gamers got golden cartridges. Plus, the first few batches of the US Ocarina of Time also featured the red blood. It was removed later, presumable after some parents complained.
The PAL Connection
Playing European or Australian games on a US N64 is more difficult due to the different TV standards (they use PAL, we use NTSC). There are plenty of converters out there that work, but given the few PAL-only titles, it's not really worth it.
Taz Express
Released on PAL, this game never made it to the US. Too bad, it's actually one of the better Looney Tunes games out there.
HSV Adventure Racing
This Australian version of Beetle Adventure Racing is exactly the same as the US one -- with one marked exception. All the Beetles have been replaced with HSV cars.
Premier Manager
The last installment in the long-running soccer management sim. Fun, if you prefer managing a team over actually playing.
F-1 World Grand Prix 2
Hey, we never got this sequel! Hey, looks like they just updated the rosters challenges and didn't really improve anything else!
F1 Racing Championship
Now this one would have been nice to have. Like the excellent Monaco Grand Prix, but with full FIA licensing.
A few Japanese games, like Air Boarder 64 also made it out in Europe, but if you've got a US system stick to the Japanese NTSC versions. That's all, folks. If you want to know how to modify your US Nintendo 64 to play Japanese titles, see here how to mod your N64 to let it fit Japanese cartridges. If you're planning to play PAL games, you need to pick up a universal converter (which requires a US/Japanese cartridge to boot the PAL title).
If you're just looking for the best games on Nintendo 64, make sure to check out our Top 25 Nintendo Games list. So if you're bored with your N64 and want to breathe some new life into the now classic machine, why not try out some import titles?
There are numerous stores, both online and in the real world, that carry them. Some online retailer suggestions, in case you don't know where to start, here are some important shop names you can look up: National Console Support, Buyrite, Upstate Games, The Rage.
Have fun!