Nintendo Switch Online continues to be a treasure trove for fans of retro gaming, and this month’s update is particularly exciting for those who’ve been yearning for a taste of Japanese exclusives. Four new games have been added to the platform, three of which were previously exclusive to Japan.
This move not only expands the library of available games but also offers a unique experience for gamers outside of Japan, as many of these titles are hard to come by abroad. Here is a list of all four games that have been added:
Kirby’s Star Stacker (Super NES)
Taken at face value, Kirby’s Star Stacker looks pretty much like a Tetris clone reskinned with Kirby-themed visuals. When one digs a bit deeper, they’ll find that Kirby’s Star Stacker is… pretty much a Tetris clone reskinned with Kirby-themed visuals. Sometimes you just don’t have to reinvent the wheel, right?
Downtown Nekketsu March: Super-Awesome Field Day! (NES)
This action sports game, part of the Kunio-kun series, was initially released in 1990 for the Famicom, the Japanese version of the NES. The game allows up to four players to compete in a sports tournament where unconventional tactics, including violence, are permitted. This title was previously available in the West as part of a retro compilation but is now available separately.
Joy Mech Fight (NES)
Another Famicom classic from 1993, Joy Mech Fight, is a fighting game where two scientists create a collection of military robots. When one scientist decides to use them for world domination, the other must battle these robots to save the day. This game is known for its unique mechanics, striking visuals, and engaging fighting styles.
Quest for Camelot (Game Boy Color)
Unlike the other titles, Quest for Camelot was available both in the West and Japan. This 2D action RPG, based on the Warner Bros. animated film of the same name, was released in 1998. It stands out as one of the few film tie-ins available on the Nintendo Switch Online service.
For many, this update is a trip down memory lane, a chance to relive the nostalgia of classic Nintendo games. For others, it’s an opportunity to explore titles they might have heard of but never had the chance to play. The fact that these games are available in their original, untranslated form adds to the authenticity of the experience.
Moreover, these additions highlight the value proposition of the Nintendo Switch Online service. For a yearly subscription of $19.99 (or you can opt for the $39.99 family subscription plan), members not only get access to a rich library of NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles but also benefit from online play and cloud save features.
If you’re looking to own a Switch console, you can check out Nintendo’s holiday Switch console bundle, which includes a new Mario Kart 8 bundle and special edition Animal Crossing Switch Lite offerings. The bundle will be available in stores starting October 6.
