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.