Nintendo Switch Online has released its latest set of updates for January, providing members with new ways to enjoy both modern and retro games. The service continues to offer access to online multiplayer, a library of classic titles, exclusive rewards, and community-driven features, with several additions now available for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 users.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Adds Free Resort Update
A free update is now available for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, bringing new customization options and gameplay features. Players can now decorate resort hotel rooms for visiting guests, enhancing the cooperative and creative aspects of island life. Nintendo Switch Online members can also access Slumber Island, a shared dreamspace where friends can visit and build together. This update adds fresh content for returning players and provides a starting point for new players to dive into island management and creative design.
Virtual Boy Games Come to Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can now pre-purchase exclusive accessories to play select Virtual Boy titles with stereoscopic 3D visuals. These accessories are compatible with both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, opening up classic Virtual Boy experiences for a modern audience. This initiative expands the service’s retro gaming offerings and continues Nintendo’s effort to preserve older titles within its digital library.
New Retro Titles Added for Classic Gaming
The January update introduces several new Nintendo Classics to the service. Players with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership can access Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance on Nintendo GameCube, as well as Rayman 2: The Great Escape and Tonic Trouble on Nintendo 64. Game Boy and Game Boy Advance classics, including Game & Watch Gallery 3 and Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones, are also available, allowing members to earn My Nintendo Platinum Points while revisiting nostalgic titles. The inclusion of these games reinforces the platform’s focus on retro content and provides long-time fans with new reasons to explore older games.
Multiplayer and Cooperative Experiences
Nintendo Switch Online continues to expand its multiplayer offerings. LEGO Party! now supports four-player local or online sessions, featuring Challenge Zones and minigames across LEGO franchises such as LEGO Pirates, LEGO Space, and LEGO Ninjago. The service’s multiplayer support encourages players to connect with friends and family while enjoying both casual and strategic gaming experiences.
Sports and Adventure Titles
Alongside classic content, Nintendo Switch Online also supports modern titles such as EA SPORTS FC 26 and Hello Kitty Island Adventure. EA SPORTS FC 26 has updated gameplay modes, offering more responsive and consistent controls in Career Mode and Football Ultimate Team. Hello Kitty Island Adventure provides a cozy exploration experience, letting players restore a deserted island while uncovering hidden secrets. Both titles are available for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, with upgrade packs available for the newer system.
Music and In-Game Rewards
The update also brings new rewards and music features. Nintendo Switch Online members can now listen to the soundtrack from Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance through the Nintendo Music app. Additionally, players can earn My Nintendo Platinum Points by completing missions in classic titles, which can be redeemed for in-game-themed rewards. These additions highlight Nintendo’s focus on blending retro and modern content to enhance the subscription experience.
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that provides online multiplayer access, a library of classic games, exclusive content, and other benefits for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 users.
Which games were added in the January update?
New additions include Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance (GameCube), Rayman 2: The Great Escape and Tonic Trouble (Nintendo 64), and Game & Watch Gallery 3 (Game Boy). Several modern titles, such as LEGO Party!, EA SPORTS FC 26, and Hello Kitty Island Adventure, also received updates or support.
Do I need a special membership to access these games?
Yes. Standard Nintendo Switch Online membership provides access to most classic and multiplayer content, while the Expansion Pack is required for Virtual Boy titles, Nintendo 64, and GameCube games.
Can I earn rewards while playing classic games?
Yes. Playing select Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and other Nintendo Classics titles allows members to earn My Nintendo Platinum Points, which can be redeemed for retro-themed rewards.
Is online play required for all features?
No. Some updates, such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons content or Nintendo Classics games, can be accessed offline. However, online connectivity is required for multiplayer games and features like Slumber Island and LEGO Party! online sessions.
Where can I find more information about membership requirements?
Membership details, pricing, and terms are available on the official Nintendo website. A Nintendo Account is required for access to online features and reward redemption.
