Nintendo Switch Online Games List 2024: Play These Now!

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Nintendo Switch Online Games List 2024: Play These Now!

Hey guys! Ready to dive into the awesome world of Nintendo Switch Online? If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for the best games to play. And with 2024 rolling in, it's time to update that list! So, let's jump right into the ultimate guide to the must-play games on Nintendo Switch Online this year. Whether you're a retro enthusiast or a modern gamer, there’s something here for everyone.

What is Nintendo Switch Online?

Before we get into the games, let’s quickly recap what Nintendo Switch Online actually is. Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) is a subscription service that enhances your Nintendo Switch experience. For a monthly or annual fee, you get access to a bunch of cool features that make your gaming life way more exciting. One of the biggest perks? Online multiplayer! That means you can team up with friends or challenge rivals from all over the globe in compatible games. Think Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 3, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Without NSO, you're kinda stuck playing solo, and who wants that?

But that’s not all! NSO also includes a growing library of classic NES and SNES games. We’re talking about the games that shaped our childhoods – Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Super Metroid, and so many more. It’s like having a time machine that takes you back to the golden age of gaming. Plus, you get cloud saves for most games, so you don’t have to worry about losing your progress if something happens to your Switch. And if you upgrade to the Expansion Pack, you get even more goodies, like Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance games. Seriously, NSO is a must-have for any Switch owner.

Classic NES Games on Nintendo Switch Online

Alright, let's kick things off with the classics! The NES library on Nintendo Switch Online is a treasure trove of retro goodness. These games might be simple by today's standards, but they're packed with charm and nostalgia. Plus, they're a great way to appreciate how far gaming has come. Now, I'm going to share my top picks.

  • Super Mario Bros.: Come on, you knew this was coming! Super Mario Bros. is the game that started it all. It's the quintessential platformer, and it's just as fun today as it was back in 1985. Whether you're jumping over Goombas, collecting power-ups, or rescuing Princess Peach, this game is pure joy.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Before Breath of the Wild, there was this gem. The Legend of Zelda is an epic adventure that takes you on a quest to save Hyrule from the evil Ganon. Explore dungeons, collect items, and uncover secrets in this timeless classic.
  • Metroid: In Metroid, you play as Samus Aran, a bounty hunter on a mission to stop the Space Pirates from using the Metroids for their nefarious purposes. Explore a sprawling alien world, upgrade your suit, and battle creepy creatures in this groundbreaking action-adventure game.
  • Donkey Kong: Before he was a solo star, Donkey Kong was the bad guy! In Donkey Kong, you play as Mario (or Jumpman, as he was originally known) and try to rescue Pauline from the clutches of the giant ape. It's a simple but addictive arcade game that's perfect for quick bursts of fun.
  • Kirby's Adventure: One of Kirby's earliest adventures, Kirby's Adventure showcases the pink puffball's unique ability to copy enemy powers. This game is colorful, creative, and full of surprises.

Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) Games

Now, let’s crank up the nostalgia with some SNES titles! The SNES era was a golden age for gaming, with incredible graphics, immersive stories, and unforgettable characters. The SNES library on Nintendo Switch Online is packed with gems, and these are some of my absolute favorites.

  • Super Mario World: This is where Mario truly came into his own. Super Mario World introduces Yoshi, a rideable dinosaur, and takes you on a colorful adventure through Dinosaur Land. The level design is genius, and the game is just plain fun to play.
  • The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past: Many Zelda fans consider this the best in the series. A Link to the Past expands on the original Legend of Zelda with a deeper story, more complex dungeons, and a vast overworld to explore. It's a must-play for any Zelda fan.
  • Super Metroid: Widely regarded as one of the greatest video games ever made, Super Metroid takes you back to Zebes for another thrilling adventure as Samus Aran. The atmosphere is incredible, the level design is masterful, and the game is just plain awesome.
  • Super Mario Kart: The game that started it all! Super Mario Kart introduced the world to kart racing, and it's still a blast to play today. Race as your favorite Mario characters, use power-ups to mess with your opponents, and compete for the checkered flag.
  • Donkey Kong Country: Rare's Donkey Kong Country was a graphical powerhouse when it was released, and it still looks great today. Play as Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong as you try to recover your stolen banana hoard from the Kremlings. The music is fantastic, and the gameplay is addictive.

Nintendo 64 Games on Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack

Alright, let’s talk about the Nintendo 64 games available through the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. This is where things get really interesting! The N64 was a revolutionary console, bringing 3D graphics and innovative gameplay to the masses. And now, you can relive those memories on your Switch.

  • The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Widely considered one of the greatest video games of all time, Ocarina of Time set the standard for 3D action-adventure games. Explore a vast world, solve puzzles, and battle enemies in this epic quest to save Hyrule.
  • Super Mario 64: This game redefined the platformer genre. Super Mario 64 takes Mario into a fully 3D world, where he can explore Peach's castle and collect stars to unlock new areas. It's a groundbreaking game that's still fun to play today.
  • Mario Kart 64: The quintessential kart racer! Mario Kart 64 features classic tracks, memorable characters, and chaotic multiplayer action. It's the perfect game to play with friends, and it's guaranteed to bring back some fond memories.
  • Star Fox 64: Do a barrel roll! Star Fox 64 puts you in the cockpit of an Arwing as you battle the forces of Andross. The game is fast-paced, action-packed, and full of memorable moments.
  • Banjo-Kazooie: Developed by Rare, Banjo-Kazooie is a delightful platformer that follows the adventures of a bear and a bird as they try to rescue Banjo's sister from the evil witch Gruntilda. The game is full of charm, humor, and creative challenges.

Game Boy Advance (GBA) on Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack

Now, let’s move on to the Game Boy Advance games available through the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. The GBA was a powerhouse handheld console, and it had a ton of amazing games. Now you can play them on your Switch, which is super cool! Let's check out some must-play titles.

  • The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap: Another fantastic Zelda title, The Minish Cap features a unique shrinking mechanic that allows you to explore the world from a new perspective. The game is full of charm, puzzles, and exciting battles.
  • Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3: This is a enhanced version of Super Mario Bros. 3, one of the greatest platformers of all time. With new features, levels, and challenges, this is a must-play for any Mario fan.
  • Metroid Fusion: A direct sequel to Super Metroid, Metroid Fusion takes you on another thrilling adventure as Samus Aran. The game is darker, more story-driven, and full of suspense.
  • Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga: This game kicks off the Mario & Luigi series with its unique blend of RPG mechanics and quirky humor. Control both Mario and Luigi simultaneously as you explore the Beanbean Kingdom and rescue Princess Peach.
  • Kirby & The Amazing Mirror: In this unique Kirby adventure, the pink puffball must travel through a mysterious mirror world to stop an evil force. The game features a nonlinear world, multiple endings, and plenty of Kirby's signature copy abilities.

Other Notable Games on Nintendo Switch Online

Beyond the retro classics, Nintendo Switch Online also offers a selection of other notable titles that are worth checking out. These games might not be as well-known as the Mario and Zelda games, but they're still a lot of fun.

  • Tetris 99: This is Tetris like you've never seen it before! Tetris 99 pits you against 98 other players in a battle royale of falling blocks. It's intense, addictive, and totally unique.
  • Pac-Man 99: Similar to Tetris 99, Pac-Man 99 takes the classic arcade game and turns it into a battle royale. Eat pellets, chase ghosts, and compete against 98 other players to be the last Pac-Man standing.
  • F-Zero 99: In F-Zero 99, you race against 98 other players in high-speed races inspired by the classic SNES game F-Zero. The game is fast, chaotic, and full of adrenaline-pumping action.

Final Thoughts: Is Nintendo Switch Online Worth It in 2024?

So, is Nintendo Switch Online worth it in 2024? Absolutely! For a relatively small fee, you get access to online multiplayer, a growing library of classic games, cloud saves, and exclusive deals. If you're a Switch owner, it's a no-brainer. And if you upgrade to the Expansion Pack, you get even more value with Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance games.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of Nintendo, there's something for everyone on Nintendo Switch Online. So, grab your Switch, subscribe to NSO, and start playing! You won't regret it.