Growing up with an Atari, I missed many of the iconic games released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) during the ’80s and ’90s. While the Atari had its share of great titles, the Nintendo classics held a certain allure. Now, through Nintendo Switch Online on the Nintendo Switch, I have the opportunity to experience these titles as an adult.
Nintendo Switch Online launched with 20 games, including Super Mario Brothers, Donkey Kong, and The Legend of Zelda. Since then, the library has expanded, with additional titles continuously being added. The appeal lies in the faithful recreation of the original gaming experience. The example below illustrates the visual fidelity of the Super Mario Bros re-release compared to its original NES counterpart.
Similar to the Nintendo Classic Mini and Sega Mega Drive Classics, a save-anywhere feature is included, which streamlines progression. Without this feature, completing Super Mario Bros would likely be significantly more challenging.
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service with monthly and yearly payment options. I opted for the annual subscription, as I consider it a worthwhile investment.
The games perform equally well on both the TV and in handheld mode, delivering an authentic audio-visual experience.
One minor drawback of Nintendo Switch Online is the practice of releasing “Special Versions” of certain games. While these may appear as entirely new additions to the library, they are often modified versions of existing titles. These “Special Versions” typically provide players with advantages such as advanced progress, extra lives, or enhanced weaponry. A more user-friendly approach would be to implement an in-game “boost” option, rather than re-releasing essentially the same game. This practice can feel somewhat disingenuous, as it creates the illusion of a larger content offering.
In conclusion, aside from the aforementioned issue, Nintendo Switch Online is a commendable service for enthusiasts of Nintendo and its extensive collection of retro games. Each new release is a welcome addition, providing an opportunity to experience these classics firsthand. A recommended service for both seasoned and new fans of Nintendo’s retro library!
A brief overview of the features included with Nintendo Switch Online:
