Nintendo Switch Online Gets a Retro Powered Expansion Pack
Nintendo Switch Online gets a retro gaming level up!
During the September 2021 Nintendo Direct an exciting new addition was announced for the Nintendo Switch Online service. This added cost Expansion Pack will include access to classic Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesisgames plus include the current benefits of the service. The cost for the new membership isn’t known yet but should be coming soon. In the meantime, here are some of the details around the service including launch games, controller options and more.
Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis Games
The full list of classic games launching for the Expansion Pack has been compiled below. Nintendo has stated more N64 and SEGA Genesis titles are coming in the future.
Launch Lineup of Nintendo 64 Games
Super Mario 64
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Mario Kart 64
Star Fox 64
Sin and Punishment
Dr. Mario 64
Mario Tennis 64
WinBack
Yoshi’s Story
Upcoming Nintendo 64 Games
Banjo-Kazooie
Pokémon Snap
The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards
Mario Golf
Paper Mario
F-Zero X
Launch Lineup of SEGA Genesis Games
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Streets of Rage 2
Ecco the Dolphin
Castlevania: Bloodlines
Contra: Hard Corps
Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine
Golden Axe
Gunstar Heroes
M.U.S.H.A.
Phantasy Star IV
Ristar
Shining Force
Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master
Strider
Online multiplayer support for classic games
Certain Nintendo 64 games will feature newly added online play for up to 4 players. I am extremely excited to finally be able to play some 4-player, online Mario Kart 64 games. The online component will extend to retro SEGA Genesis classics as well.
Retro N64 and Genesis controllers
This next bit of news has me very excited, especially as a N64 purist, there’s nothing quite like having that controller in your hands. Come this October, Nintendo Switch Online members will have the option to purchase full-size wireless Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis controllers. Being able to play these classic games the way they were meant to be played is key. When it comes to the Switch Joy-Cons it’s tough to emulate the controls of an 80’s and 90’s controller. It’s great to see these controllers return with wireless functionality for a new generation.