Among the leading gaming platforms, each offers its exclusive subscription service, unlocking added perks and game access for a recurring monthly fee. Xbox showcases Game Pass, PlayStation delivers PlayStation Plus, and Nintendo Switch presents the Nintendo Switch Online program.
Nintendo’s offering may not match the extensive offerings of its counterparts, but it delivers a rich collection of classic retro games, providing a nostalgic journey for players. Moreover, with the Expansion Pack upgrade, the gaming library expands to include N64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance titles, along with DLC packs for select Switch games. The base version of Nintendo Switch Online brings online play functionality and a selection of NES and SNES games to subscribers.
Whether you’re on the standard subscription or have opted for the upgraded Expansion Pack, Nintendo’s subscription service offers an array of fantastic games to indulge in. But what titles stand out as the best among them?
Mario Kart 64
| Specs | |
| Genre | Racing |
| Developer | Nintendo EAD |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Release | 14th December 1996 |
Racing games have much to thank the Mario Kart series for, especially the Nintendo 64 instalment, fittingly named Mario Kart 64. This title built upon the foundations laid by its SNES predecessor, enhancing both visuals and controls. With a plethora of tracks, it boasts immense replayability, featuring detailed level designs that surpass its predecessors. Mario Kart 64 unites players and remains accessible, catering even to those less familiar with gaming.
Super Mario Bros. 3 – Nintendo Entertainment System
| Specs | |
| Genre | Platform, Adventure |
| Developer | Nintendo EAD |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Release | 23rd October 1988 |
Labelling a Super Mario game as essential might seem overdone, but this one unquestionably deserves its place on our list. Super Mario Bros. 3 remains a pinnacle in platform gaming, refining the exceptional mechanics from its predecessors. Its enduring charm and timelessness owe much to Nintendo’s impeccable design. Among its many noteworthy features, the game’s introduction of an overworld fundamentally reshaped how platformers were presented. Moreover, its level design stands out as some of the finest in the entire Mario series, setting the standard for the genre and leaving an indelible mark on video game history.
Streets of Rage 2 – Sega Genesis
| Specs | |
| Genre | Beat ‘em up, Arcade |
| Developer | Sega, Ancient, Overworks, Mindware, Sega AM1, Shout!Designworks Co., Ltd. |
| Publisher | Sega |
| Release | 20th December 1992 |
Streets of Rage 2 boasts an array of enticing qualities: stunning sprite-based visuals, an electrifying soundtrack, and refined beat ’em up mechanics that surpass its predecessor. Few Sega Genesis titles can match its enduring appeal, standing out as a timeless gem in the gaming world. Its significance remains pronounced, especially considering the recent resurgence of the beat ’em up genre with acclaimed titles like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, River City Girls, and Streets of Rage 4. If you’ve savoured any of these modern titles, experiencing Streets of Rage 2 is an absolute must.
Super Mario World – Super Nintendo Entertainment System
| Specs | |
| Genre | Platform, Adventure |
| Developer | Nintendo EAD |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Release | 21st November 1990 |
There’s no need to weigh the merits of Super Mario Bros. 3 against Super Mario World; both stand as legendary titles worthy of acclaim, each carving its unique path in gaming history. Super Mario World distinguishes itself by its abundant secrets woven into the stages, offering players more hidden delights to discover. Its breathtaking visuals, for some, surpass the accomplishments of its predecessors. Like its forerunners, Super Mario World embodies innovation, timelessness, and pure gaming delight.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past – Super Nintendo Entertainment System
| Specs | |
| Genre | RPG, Adventure |
| Developer | Nintendo, Nintendo EAD |
| Publisher | St. GIGA, Nintendo |
| Release | 21st November 1991 |
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past remains an inviting adventure even amidst its successors. Its enduring appeal lies in its top-down perspective and sprite-based graphics, which have aged gracefully compared to the N64 Zelda games. Celebrated as one of the greatest games ever, it adeptly refines designs introduced in earlier instalments. A Link to the Past marks a significant evolution across gameplay, visuals, and audio, crafting an epic journey teeming with distinctive characters and a vast world to traverse, setting the stage for immersive action experiences.
EarthBound – Super Nintendo Entertainment System
| Specs | |
| Genre | Japanese role-playing game |
| Developer | HAL Laboratory, Ape, Inc. |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Release | 27th August 1994 |
Earthbound stands as an unparalleled gem in the realm of turn-based RPGs. Even after nearly three decades, its unique blend of heart and charm remains unmatched. While most RPGs dwell in fantasy realms, Earthbound stands out by centering its narrative around a group of relatable kids. Instead of wielding swords and bows, players battle using everyday items like baseball bats and frying pans. Despite its absurd moments, such as an alien invasion, Earthbound’s strength lies in its departure from traditional fantasy RPGs of its time. Its witty, hysterical writing, captivating visuals, and surprisingly engaging storyline collectively set it apart.
Super Metroid – Super Nintendo Entertainment System
| Specs | |
| Genre | Shooter, Platform, Adventure |
| Developer | Nintendo, Nintendo R&D1 |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Release | 19th March 1994 |
Super Metroid excels in various aspects, seamlessly blending its pacing and atmosphere with stunning visuals. The game expertly strips away your abilities, gradually restoring them as you progress, offering a gratifying sense of advancement. Its vast world teems with opportunities for exploration, urging players to uncover hidden upgrades that subtly ease their journey. Notably, the game’s creatures stand out as a highlight, complementing its intricate level design and contributing to an immensely enjoyable exploration experience.
Final Words
Nintendo Switch Online, though not as expansive as its competitors, offers a nostalgic trip through classic retro games and extends its library with the Expansion Pack. From iconic titles like ‘Super Mario Bros. 3’ and ‘Super Metroid’ to the timeless appeal of ‘Mario Kart 64’ and ‘The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past,’ these games define gaming excellence across various genres. Whether indulging in platformers, RPGs, or action-adventures, Nintendo Switch Online caters to a diverse gaming palate, presenting timeless classics worth revisiting and discovering.
