Introduction
Welcome to Mace Dark Age, a classic 3D fighting game for the Nintendo 64 console. This manual provides essential information to help you set up, play, and maintain your game cartridge, ensuring an optimal gaming experience.
Setup
Follow these steps to prepare your Mace Dark Age game for play:
- Console Connection: Ensure your Nintendo 64 console is properly connected to your television and power supply. Refer to your N64 console's manual for detailed connection instructions.
- Insert Cartridge: Gently insert the Mace Dark Age game cartridge into the N64 cartridge slot. Push down firmly until you hear a click, indicating it is securely seated.
- Power On: Power on your N64 console and television. Select the correct input channel on your TV to display the N64's video output.
- Start Game: The game's title screen should appear. If the game does not start, ensure the cartridge is fully seated and try cleaning the cartridge contacts as described in the Maintenance section.

Image of the Mace Dark Age game cartridge for the Nintendo 64 console, featuring the game's title and artwork.
Operating
Understanding the basic controls and game modes will enhance your Mace Dark Age experience:
Basic Controls
- Analog Stick: Used for character movement and navigation through menus.
- D-Pad: Can also be used for movement or specific menu selections.
- A Button: Typically used for primary attacks or confirming selections.
- B Button: Often used for secondary attacks or canceling selections.
- C Buttons (C-Up, C-Down, C-Left, C-Right): May control camera angles, specific special moves, or character taunts.
- Z Trigger (under controller): Commonly used for blocking or special actions.
- L/R Shoulder Buttons: Can be assigned to blocking, sidestepping, or other actions depending on game settings.
Note: Specific move lists for each character and advanced techniques can often be found within the game's pause menu or tutorial sections.
Game Modes
Mace Dark Age typically offers several modes of play:
- Arcade Mode: Progress through a series of opponents to reach the final boss and complete the game's story.
- Versus Mode: Engage in one-on-one battles against another player or the computer.
- Practice Mode: Hone your skills and learn character moves without the pressure of combat.
Maintenance
Proper care of your Mace Dark Age game cartridge will ensure its longevity and reliable performance:
- Storage: Always store the game cartridge in its original case or a protective sleeve when not in use. This prevents dust accumulation and physical damage.
- Cleaning Contacts: If the game fails to load or experiences intermittent issues, the gold connector pins on the bottom of the cartridge may need cleaning. Gently wipe the pins with a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Allow the pins to dry completely before reinserting the cartridge into the console.
- Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the cartridge to extreme temperatures, high humidity, direct sunlight, or strong magnetic fields.
- Handling: Always handle the cartridge by its plastic casing. Avoid touching the connector pins directly to prevent oil and dirt transfer.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues while playing Mace Dark Age, consider the following solutions:
- Game Not Starting:
- Ensure the cartridge is fully and correctly inserted into the N64 console.
- Clean the cartridge contacts as described in the Maintenance section.
- Verify all console and TV connections are secure.
- Game Freezing or Glitching:
- Turn the N64 console off, remove the cartridge, reinsert it, and turn the console back on.
- Ensure the cartridge contacts are clean and free of debris.
- No Sound or Picture:
- Confirm your television is set to the correct input channel for your N64.
- Check that all audio/video cables are securely connected to both the N64 console and your television.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Compatible Console | Nintendo 64 |
| Item Type | Video Game |
| Language | English |
| ESRB Rating | Mature |
| Item Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 8 x 4 x 10 inches |
| Manufacturer | Midway |
| Date First Available | January 1, 2000 |
Warranty & Support
As an older gaming title, specific manufacturer warranty information for Mace Dark Age is generally no longer available. For general Nintendo 64 console support or troubleshooting, please refer to official Nintendo support resources or community forums dedicated to retro gaming.





