Rare Gems: Nintendo Switch Online Delivers Retro Nostalgia with Five Classic Titles from Rare

From Battletoads to Blast Corps: A Look at the Latest Additions to the Nintendo Switch Online Service

NEWS  Games  February 22, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

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In the latest Nintendo Direct, retro gaming enthusiasts received exciting news as Nintendo announced the addition of five classic titles from renowned developer Rare to the Switch Online service. This move has sparked cheers among retro gamers, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those fond of Rare's iconic creations.

The newly added titles, spanning Nintendo's older home consoles, comprise Snake Rattle 'N Roll and R.C. Pro-Am for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Battletoads in Battlemaniacs and Killer Instinct for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), and Blast Corps for the Nintendo 64 (N64). Each of these games holds a special place in gaming history, contributing to Rare's legacy as a pioneer in the industry.

One notable decision by Nintendo was the inclusion of the SNES version of Killer Instinct, rather than its N64 counterpart, Killer Instinct Gold. While the latter closely mirrors the original arcade version, the choice to feature the SNES edition adds an interesting twist to the lineup, showcasing a different iteration of the beloved fighting game franchise.

Furthermore, this release marks a significant milestone for Battletoads in Battlemaniacs. Since its debut on the SNES in 1993, the game has remained exclusive to the platform until now.

Its availability on the Nintendo Switch Online service opens new avenues for players to experience this cult classic, breaking free from its decades-long confinement on a single console.

It's worth mentioning that while several Rare titles, including some of those featured in this release, have been accessible on Xbox platforms for some time, the addition of these games to the Switch Online service expands their reach to a broader audience of Nintendo fans.

This move underscores Nintendo's commitment to preserving and celebrating gaming history while making it accessible to modern audiences.

Players eager to dive into these retro adventures can do so immediately, as the titles are available for play today via the Nintendo Switch Online service. However, it's important to note that Blast Corps requires an upgrade to the Expansion Pack due to its placement on the N64 platform.

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