Nintendo just gave retro gamers another reason to celebrate. The beloved Nintendo Switch Online service has expanded its NES and Game Boy libraries once again, adding four more classics that promise both nostalgia and challenge in equal measure. But here’s where it gets interesting — this mix of titles bridges two generations of gaming, showing how Nintendo continues to fuse the old with the new.
The November update for Switch Online’s ‘Nintendo Classics’ collection has just landed, and it’s packed with vintage gems. For NES fans, get ready to dive back into Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos and the famously tough Battletoads. Both titles defined an era of controller-breaking difficulty and unforgettable gameplay — and now they’re back, ready to test a new generation of players.
Meanwhile, Game Boy enthusiasts aren’t left out either. The update introduces Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters, a charming yet underappreciated adventure that expands on the original’s mythological themes, and Bionic Commando, a cult favorite known for its unique grappling-arm mechanics that set it apart from other platformers of its time. In short, this update delivers a well-rounded dose of gaming history.
Japanese players are receiving the same lineup, keeping the global library in sync. To access these classics, you’ll need an active base-tier Nintendo Switch Online subscription. This rollout follows October’s addition of the original Luigi’s Mansion on the GameCube app — a strong signal that Nintendo is doubling down on its mission to make more retro experiences accessible in one ecosystem.
Here’s where opinions may differ: Was this the right mix of games to add? Some fans were hoping for Super NES or N64 entries instead. Others view this as proof that Nintendo still values its 8-bit and handheld roots. Where do you stand on this? Are these additions must-plays, or do they feel like filler while waiting for bigger announcements?
Share your thoughts below — are you excited to revisit these pixel-perfect legends, or do you wish Nintendo would switch things up (pun intended) with newer retro additions?
