Nintendo Switch Online Expands Classics Library

Nintendo Switch Online Expands Classics Library

Nintendo Switch Online expands its Nintendo Classics library with new NES and Game Boy titles for subscribers.

Eliza Crichton-Stuart

Eliza Crichton-Stuart

Updated Nov 30, 2025

Nintendo Switch Online Expands Classics Library

Nintendo has updated its Nintendo Classics collections, adding new titles to both the Nintendo Entertainment System™ (NES) and Game Boy™ libraries. The update is available to all Nintendo Switch Online members, giving subscribers access to more classic games on the Switch console.

New NES and Game Boy Titles

The latest additions to the NES collection include Ninja Gaiden II™: The Dark Sword of Chaos and BATTLETOADS™, two well-known titles that continue to draw interest from fans of retro gaming. 

On the Game Boy side, the library now features Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters and BIONIC COMMANDO, expanding the handheld console's classic offerings for players looking to revisit nostalgic experiences. All of these games are accessible at no extra cost for members of Nintendo Switch Online.

Understanding Nintendo Switch Online Memberships

Nintendo Switch Online offers two membership options, each with different features. The standard membership provides access to NES, Super NES™, and Game Boy libraries, along with online multiplayer support for compatible games. 

Members also benefit from cloud save backups for supported titles, exclusive offers, and games such as F-ZERO™ 99. The Nintendo Music app is included for access to video game soundtracks, and Nintendo Switch 2 users can use GameChat to connect with friends online.

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack includes all the benefits of the standard plan while adding access to Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64™, and SEGA Genesis™ collections. 

It also includes downloadable content for popular games like Animal Crossing™: New Horizons, Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe, and Splatoon™ 2. For Nintendo Switch 2 owners, the Expansion Pack offers access to a Nintendo GameCube™ library and upgrade packs for The Legend of Zelda™: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.

Pricing and Access

Both the NES and Game Boy Nintendo Classics collections are included free with any Nintendo Switch Online membership. All games are playable on the Nintendo Switch console, allowing players to revisit classic titles from past Nintendo systems without additional purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What new games were added to the Nintendo Classics collections?
The NES collection now includes Ninja Gaiden II™: The Dark Sword of Chaos and BATTLETOADS™, while the Game Boy collection features Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters and BIONIC COMMANDO.

Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online membership to access these games?
Yes, all Nintendo Classics games require an active Nintendo Switch Online membership.

What is the difference between Nintendo Switch Online and the Expansion Pack?
The standard Nintendo Switch Online membership provides access to NES, Super NES™, and Game Boy libraries, online multiplayer, cloud saves, and special offers. The Expansion Pack adds Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64™, and SEGA Genesis™ games, DLC for select titles, and additional perks for Nintendo Switch 2 users, including GameCube games and Zelda upgrade packs.

Are the new games free?
Yes, all newly added NES and Game Boy games are included at no extra cost with a Nintendo Switch Online membership.

Can I play these games online with friends?
Online multiplayer is available for compatible NES, Super NES™, and Game Boy titles through Nintendo Switch Online, depending on the specific game.

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updated

November 30th 2025

posted

November 27th 2025

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