Tag: Nintendo Switch Online

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Price Increase Announced

    Nintendo Switch 2 Price Increase Announced

    Key Takeaway

    1. Nintendo is raising the prices of its Switch hardware lineup globally, starting with Japan in May 2026, followed by North America, Canada, and Europe.
    2. The price increases for the Switch consoles range from approximately ¥10,000 to $50, with the Switch 2 in Japan increasing from ¥49,980 to ¥59,980 and in the US from $449.99 to $499.99.
    3. Subscription prices for Nintendo Switch Online, including the Expansion Pack, will also increase across nearly all plans starting July 2026.

    Global Memory Crisis and Its Effect on Gaming Hardware Prices

    With the ongoing problems in the memory chip market, many makers have no choice but to bump up prices on some of their gadgets. Some companies are even delaying advanced device releases because production costs are just too high. Nintendo is the latest to join this trend by announcing new prices on their gaming hardware lines.

    Price Changes in Japan

    Initially, these changes hit Japan the hardest. Beginning on May 25, 2026, the Nintendo Switch 2 in Japanese language will be sold at ¥59,980 which is a significant jump from ¥49,980. The company said that for multi-language versions available through My Nintendo Store, the price will stay the same for now. The older Nintendo Switch consoles are also getting more expensive. The OLED model will now cost ¥47,980 instead of ¥37,980, and the original Switch goes up from ¥32,978 to ¥43,980. The Switch Lite will also see a rise from ¥21,978 to ¥29,980.

    International Price Adjustments

    Moving beyond Japan, Nintendo also announced price increases for the Switch 2 in other countries like the US, Canada, and Europe. In the US, the cost jumps from $449.99 to $499.99 starting from September 1, 2026. Over in Canada, the price will be changing from $629.99 to $679.99. And in Europe, the price on the official store shifts from €469.99 to €499.99. These raises reflect the global pressure from rising production costs affecting the gaming industry.

    Subscription Services Are Not Left Out

    The increase in prices extends to Nintendo Switch Online services too. From July 1, 2026, nearly every plan will see a hike. The annual individual plan will now cost ¥3,000 up from ¥2,400, and the family plan will go from ¥4,500 to ¥5,800. The Plus expansion pack memberships are also more pricey, with the alone yearly membership rising from ¥4,900 to ¥5,900. Family plans for the expansion now cost ¥9,900 instead of ¥8,900. Customers will have to pay more for access to online multiplayer, save data cloud services, and other features Nintendo offers.

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  • Nintendo Reveals Launch List of Virtual Boy Games

    Nintendo Reveals Launch List of Virtual Boy Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Virtual Boy launches on February 17, with pre-orders available since December 2025.
    2. The device is compatible with Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, priced at $499, requiring a Nintendo Switch Online membership for full access.
    3. Seven games will be available at launch, with more titles planned for release throughout the year.
    4. Players can create suspend points, rewind gameplay, and remap controls for an enhanced gaming experience.
    5. Users can customize screen colors within games, with options beyond the default red, but must remove the red lens cover to do so.

    It is almost time for the launch of the Nintendo Virtual Boy, which is just a few weeks away. Pre-orders have been open since December, following an announcement that took place in September 2025. To build excitement, Nintendo has shared a new promotional video along with a list of games that will be ready when the device is released.

    Compatibility and Pricing

    The Nintendo Virtual Boy works with both the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2, which can be found on Amazon for $499. However, potential buyers must have a Nintendo Switch Online membership to access the features of this new accessory.

    Launch Games

    Upon its release on February 17, there will only be 7 games available for players. Nintendo has promised that more titles will be added in the future. The games available at launch are as follows:

    Players will have the ability to create suspend points to save their game progress. They can also rewind to fix errors and remap controls during gameplay, enhancing the overall experience.

    Future Titles and Features

    In addition to the launch games, Nintendo has announced that they will introduce more games throughout the year. Titles such as Mario Clash, Mario Tennis, Jack Bros., Space Invaders Virtual Collection, Virtual Bowling, Vertical Force, and V-Tetris will be available soon. Furthermore, there are additional games that were not part of the original 1995 launch of the Virtual Boy, including Zero Racers and D-Hopper, which are set to arrive this year as well.

    Alongside new games, the Virtual Boy will receive a special feature that allows users to customize the screen colors within games. Besides the default red, players can opt for yellow, green, and white. However, this will require removing the red lens cover from the Virtual Boy.

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  • Nintendo Fixes Switch 2 GameCube Emulator for Wind Waker

    Nintendo Fixes Switch 2 GameCube Emulator for Wind Waker

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack now allows access to GameCube classics, but some games experience extra input latency compared to their original versions.
    2. The gameplay delay in titles like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker has increased on NSO, with modern screens also contributing to the issue.
    3. Players have reported slight improvements in latency for Wind Waker, with a reduction from a 6-frame delay to about 4-5 frames after recent updates.
    4. F-Zero GX may have also seen improvements, making competitive racing easier, though control sensitivity remains a concern for players.
    5. Some fans prefer third-party emulators like Dolphin for better performance, but they require a powerful PC and are more complex to set up compared to Nintendo’s offerings.

    Switch 2 users who have signed up for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can now revisit some beloved GameCube classics. Sadly, games such as The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and F-Zero GX have faced issues with extra input latency. This problem makes the gameplay feel less responsive compared to how it was on the original console. Recently, it seems that Nintendo might have improved its official GameCube emulator in an update.

    Gameplay Experience

    In the original Wind Waker, players already experienced a delay in sword attacks and other actions. This issue has been amplified on NSO, where the emulation process introduces additional latency. Furthermore, modern screens that upscale images can also contribute to this delay.

    Notable Changes

    Gamers started to notice some differences after Wario World was released on December 11th. Reactions have been mixed, but numerous Switch 2 users are seeing some enhancements in the Zelda title. A Reddit user, azer67, pointed out that speedrunners used to detect a 6-frame delay. He now believes that it has improved to about 4-5 frames, showing a slight but noticeable positive change.

    Other Game Improvements

    Another GameCube title that might have gained from this update is F-Zero GX. Given the high speeds in the racing game, having precise control over the vehicles is crucial. Many players have felt regret for selling their consoles due to the poor performance of Nintendo’s GameCube emulator.

    Feedback on the ResetEra forums indicates that competitive racing has become easier. Nevertheless, whether using the Switch 2 in handheld mode or with the updated GameCube controller, the analog sticks still feel overly sensitive. This twitchiness in controls is an issue that likely requires a separate update.

    Third-Party Solutions

    Some fans find it frustrating that third-party emulators, like Dolphin, provide better performance. However, setting them up can be more complicated, and a strong PC is necessary to harness their full potential. Nintendo Switch Online, along with its Classics library, offers a simpler option, making players appreciate the recent improvements.

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  • Nintendo Opens Virtual Boy Pre-Orders for Switch Online Members Only

    Nintendo Opens Virtual Boy Pre-Orders for Switch Online Members Only

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has started pre-orders for the revived Virtual Boy accessory for the Switch and Switch 2.
    2. The standard Virtual Boy is priced at $99.99 and requires a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership.
    3. An affordable Cardboard model of the Virtual Boy will be available for $24.99, releasing on February 17, 2026.
    4. Both versions of the Virtual Boy require the Switch or Switch 2 for use and are not compatible with the Nintendo Switch Lite.
    5. The package includes a stand, attachments for both devices, an eye shade, and a lens cover.

    Following a statement made in September, Nintendo has started to take pre-orders for the revived Virtual Boy accessory. This gadget is a replica of the original Virtual Boy that was launched back in 1995. Often referred to as one of Nintendo’s flops, the company has decided to reintroduce it for the Switch and Switch 2 handheld devices.

    Pricing Details

    The Virtual Boy is available for $99.99 and can only be bought by individuals who hold a paid membership for Nintendo Switch Online. Additionally, users will need to have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion pack membership to access and play any classic games that work with this device. Included with the Virtual Boy are a stand, attachments for both the Switch and Switch 2, an eye shade, and a lens cover.

    Affordable Option

    Nintendo is also offering the Virtual Boy (Cardboard model) at a much lower price of $24.99. Similar to the standard Virtual Boy, this cardboard version will be released on February 17, 2026.

    To utilize either version of the Virtual Boy, just insert your Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 (which can be found on Amazon for $499) into the model (note that Nintendo Switch Lite is not compatible) and enjoy a supported game with Joy-Con or Joy-Con 2 controllers.

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  • New Virtual Console Trademark Highlights Nintendo Switch Online Limits

    New Virtual Console Trademark Highlights Nintendo Switch Online Limits

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers essential online features and access to classic Nintendo games but has faced criticism for its subscription model limiting game access.
    2. A recent trademark application has raised hopes for a possible replacement for the Virtual Console, which ended for several consoles in recent years.
    3. The trademark filing may not lead to significant changes, as it could be a way for Nintendo to retain rights for future use, similar to past applications.
    4. The Switch Online model allows for the addition and removal of retro games, whereas the Virtual Console allowed users to buy and download games permanently.
    5. There is ongoing debate between the benefits of subscription services and the importance of owning physical copies or games outright for long-term access and game preservation.

    Many players consider the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack to be a great deal. It provides essential online features and access to a collection of classic Nintendo games at a fair price. On the flip side, some critics are not happy that the subscription model limits the games that can be played. Recently, a trademark application has sparked hope that a replacement for the Virtual Console might be on the way.

    A user named Mike Odyssey shared on social media that a trademark filed on April 21, 2025, is currently pending on the USPTO website. One of the categories listed in this trademark is IC 009, which includes “Recorded electronic game programs; downloadable electronic game programs; recorded video game programs.” Additionally, Nintendo has multiple active trademarks linked to the Virtual Console.

    Potential Outcomes

    As noted by Nintendo Life, it’s a possibility that this trademark filing may not result in anything substantial, similar to past Nintendo patent applications. The company might just be looking to keep rights to the name for future use. Yet, hopeful gamers are reminiscing about the benefits that the service used to provide.

    The Virtual Console for the Wii ended in 2019, and both the 3DS and Wii U lost access in 2023. There were speculations that Nintendo intended to bring it to the Switch before opting for the NSO solution instead.

    Subscription vs. Ownership

    The Switch Online and the optional Expansion Pack utilize apps specific to Nintendo Classics for each console. A significant difference is that retro games can be added or removed based on Nintendo’s preference. In contrast, Virtual Console users could buy and download games outright, without needing a subscription. Many fans argue that this provided a broader selection of Nintendo titles at any given moment.

    Advocates for game preservation argue for the importance of owning Nintendo games permanently. Players who still have older consoles can continue to enjoy their purchases from Virtual Console. However, with subscription services like Xbox Game Pass becoming popular, it seems Nintendo may be leaning towards steady income from subscriptions. Nevertheless, collectors argue that neither option replaces the value of owning physical copies.

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  • Nintendo Adds Forsaken 64 to Classics Mature App

    Nintendo Adds Forsaken 64 to Classics Mature App

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Count: Forsaken 64 is the 40th Nintendo 64 game added to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack collection as of September 4, 2025.

    2. Mature Content: Forsaken 64 is rated for mature audiences and is available only through the Nintendo 64 – Nintendo Classics: Mature 17+ app, restricting access for younger players.

    3. Game Reception: Originally released in 1998, Forsaken received positive feedback for its gameplay and is noted for its unique and striking box art.

    4. Gameplay Modes: The game features both single-player and multiplayer options, allowing players to choose between different vehicles with unique stats.

    5. Subscription Requirement: Accessing Forsaken 64 requires a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which costs $49.99 annually, while standard membership options are also available at lower prices.

    Nintendo has added to its Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack collection by bringing in Forsaken 64, a first-person shooter from Acclaim Entertainment originally launched in 1998. This addition marks the 40th Nintendo 64 game to be available as of September 4, 2025.

    Game Count and Availability

    With the arrival of Forsaken 64, the total number of games available globally hits 40. However, two other titles, Custom Robo and Custom Robo V2, are still only available to players in Japan.

    Mature Content Restriction

    Forsaken 64 is not like most Nintendo 64 classics that can be found in the regular app. It is part of a special group of Nintendo 64 games under the Nintendo 64 – Nintendo Classics: Mature 17+ app, which means younger players can’t access this particular game.

    Game Reception and Design

    This game marks the fifth entry rated for mature audiences in the lineup, joining the ranks of Turok: Dinosaur Hunter, Turok 2: Seeds of Evil, Shadow Man, and Perfect Dark. Initially released for the Nintendo 64 in 1998, Forsaken received a good amount of praise for its action-packed gameplay but also became somewhat infamous for its unique box art.

    Originally, Forsaken was developed for Windows and PlayStation before making its way to the Nintendo 64. The North American version features a striking cover with a woman shedding tears and adorned with a Forsaken tattoo, while the European PAL versions opted for a more straightforward design.

    Gameplay and Multiplayer Options

    Set in a bleak, dystopian future, players navigate through complex levels filled with robots and competing bounty hunters. The game allows for both single-player and multiplayer modes, giving players the option to choose between a bike or a pinocycle, each with different stats before diving into the action.

    Subscription Details

    To play Forsaken 64, players must have a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which costs $49.99 per year. This subscription provides access to games from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis.

    On the other hand, the standard Nintendo Switch Online membership includes NES, SNES, Game Boy, and Game Boy Color games, starting at $3.99 for one month, $7.99 for three months, and $19.99 for a full year.

    Recent Releases

    Nintendo has been quite active lately, consistently releasing retro games one after another. Not long ago, they introduced titles like Chibi-Robo! to the GameCube library, as well as Super Mario Strikers and Mario Paint.

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  • Classic Games on Nintendo Switch Online Boost Physical Game Prices

    Classic Games on Nintendo Switch Online Boost Physical Game Prices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Chibi-Robo! is gaining interest among collectors due to its limited print and upcoming availability on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack.
    2. Classic Nintendo games available digitally, like those on Nintendo Switch Online, have seen price increases, especially Nintendo 64 titles, which are up by 20-30%.
    3. GameCube games, like Soul Calibur II, have skyrocketed in value, achieving auction prices that are 73% higher.
    4. There is a strong demand for physical copies of games, with collectors willing to pay high prices for originals, even amidst the rise of digital gaming.
    5. Modern gamers show resistance to Game-Key Cards and prefer physical media, while collectors protect their vintage games for display and enjoyment.

    Gamers who have been looking for a physical edition of Chibi-Robo! got some good news recently. Since it had a limited print, the 2005 GameCube platformer has drawn a lot of interest from collectors. Subscribers of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will soon be able to play this title on the streaming service. It might not seem obvious, but this first-party Nintendo game is actually fetching a higher price now.

    Rising Values of Classic Nintendo Games

    TheGamer looked into the final sale prices of many classic Nintendo games that are now available in a digital format. While it’s still early to make any definite claims about Chibi-Robo!, other titles added to Nintendo Switch Online have seen their values rise. The Nintendo 64 games have experienced the most significant increase due to greater visibility. Titles like Shadow Man, Banjo-Tooie, and Iggy’s Reckin’ Balls are all being sold for 20-30% more on eBay since they became available on Nintendo’s platform.

    GameCube Prices Skyrocketing

    On the GameCube side, Soul Calibur II is achieving auction prices that are 73% higher. The Game Boy Advance doesn’t follow these trends as much, with F-Zero: GP Legend being one of the few games that has actually gone up in value. Still, many classic Nintendo games that are available for streaming are now seen as even more valuable by retro gaming enthusiasts.

    The Demand for Physical Copies

    Most original cartridges and their cases don’t usually exceed the $200 mark like some Chibi-Robo! sales do. Even with the ease of digital gaming, Nintendo fans continue to desire physical copies. Modern gamers have also pushed back against Game-Key Cards, showing resistance to industry practices. Bringing back emulated versions of classic games only heightens the need for physical media among fans.

    Even the prices for newer first-party Nintendo games are staying quite high. Buyers are still eager to pay full price for Switch and Switch 2 games. Many years ago, collectors saw the potential for profit and are now reaping the rewards of their investments.

    Collectors are careful not to damage their vintage cartridges. After getting games graded or putting them on display, they can enjoy revisiting them on Nintendo Switch Online without worry.

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    Classic Games on Nintendo Switch Online Boost Physical Game Prices

     

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  • Free New Game Launches on Nintendo Switch Online – A Pleasant Surprise

    Free New Game Launches on Nintendo Switch Online – A Pleasant Surprise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mario Paint Returns: The classic game Mario Paint from 1992 is now available on Nintendo Switch Online.
    2. Creative Gameplay: Players can use various tools to create art, color images, and even compose music in the game.
    3. Accessibility: Mario Paint is free for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers and can be played on both versions of the console.
    4. Mouse Options: Players can use the Joy-Con as a mouse or opt for a real computer mouse for drawing and coloring.
    5. Commitment to Classics: Nintendo’s release of Mario Paint shows its dedication to providing classic games that have impacted the gaming industry.

    Nintendo Switch Online sometimes has little treats for players all over the globe, like classic games that have left a mark on the gaming world. Since July 28, a game featuring a famous character has arrived on the platform.

    A Classic Returns

    The game is Mario Paint, which first came out on the Super Nintendo way back in 1992 and has now returned on Nintendo Switch Online. It gained recognition not just for its fun gameplay but also for its diverse features.

    In the original version, gamers could use a range of virtual tools like brushes and stamps to create their art. But that’s not everything; players could also color and animate sequences of four, six, or nine images. Furthermore, there was a music mode allowing you to create tunes by arranging various notes on a sheet. A bonus game involved using the Super Nintendo mouse to swat insects with a fly swatter.

    Accessibility and Features

    As mentioned, Mario Paint is available for free on Nintendo Switch Online for those with a subscription. It’s important to note that this game can be enjoyed on both versions of the Nintendo Switch, although the latter offers more features, like using the Joy-Con 2 on the side as a mouse. If the Joy-Con feature is not your style, which many players have debated, you can easily use a real computer mouse to draw or color.

    So, this beloved video game is back on Nintendo Switch Online, which is bound to thrill countless gamers. Additionally, this move indicates that the Japanese company aims to satisfy its audience by providing free classics that have shaped the gaming industry. We can look forward to more exciting reveals as the year comes to a close.

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  • Super Smash Bros. and Donkey Kong 64 Featured in Nintendo Classics

    Super Smash Bros. and Donkey Kong 64 Featured in Nintendo Classics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fans discovered potential new games for Nintendo 64 on Switch Online by analyzing a blurred trailer.
    2. The games speculated to be added include Donkey Kong 64, Forsaken 64, Rayman 2, and Super Smash Bros.
    3. Community members used Gaussian blur to match the box art, supporting their claims.
    4. There is skepticism since previous trailers have shown games that were never released.
    5. Timing suggests the release of Donkey Kong 64 could coincide with the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza event.

    Nintendo enthusiasts have discovered some significant new games that might be added to the Nintendo 64 section of Switch Online. A group of observant fans analyzed the CRT filter preview shown in the Nintendo 64 Trailer on YouTube. This trailer had a blurred background that displayed box art for well-known Nintendo games, prompting fans to dive into a digital investigation.

    Discovery by the Community

    The initial report came from @ImakuniVT, and many others in the community backed up this finding. They believe the blurred pictures look like box art for classic games that are not yet available on Nintendo Switch Online. After examining the trailer closely, fans figured out that the fuzzy images likely featured art for games such as Donkey Kong 64, Forsaken 64, Rayman 2, and Super Smash Bros.

    Supporting Evidence

    To strengthen their claims, fans even applied a Gaussian blur to the box art, and the outcome matched quite closely. Even though none of these beloved classics have been officially confirmed for Nintendo Switch Online, the evidence is enough to get fans excited about the possibilities.

    However, there’s still a bit of doubt within the community since Nintendo has previously shared images of games that were never released again. It’s possible that the blurred visuals could just be placeholders included in the trailer released back in May.

    Timing and Expectations

    Nonetheless, the timing seems to align well with some upcoming titles. The release of Donkey Kong 64 could match the launch of Donkey Kong Bananza. Plus, given how often the Nintendo 64 classic has been referenced in the recent announcements, the timing does appear to make sense.

    Currently, the N64 library on Nintendo Switch Online includes over 30 games, such as Mario Kart 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, GoldenEye 007, and Super Mario 64. Adding classics like Donkey Kong 64 and Super Smash Bros. could effectively address some of the significant gaps in the Nintendo 64 collection.

    Even with the detailed analysis of the blurry box art in the trailer, fans should temper their excitement because Nintendo has not yet made any formal announcements regarding additional N64 titles.

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  • Super Smash Bros. Likely Coming to Nintendo Switch Online Next

    Super Smash Bros. Likely Coming to Nintendo Switch Online Next

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fans are eager for Super Smash Bros. (N64) to be added to Nintendo’s streaming classics on Nintendo Switch Online.
    2. A recent video hinting at Nintendo Classics features includes a potentially revealing background image resembling the original Super Smash Bros. box art.
    3. Some gamers speculate that the image could also represent other N64 titles, leading to doubts about the leak’s validity.
    4. Nintendo has a history of teasing retro games in promotional videos, but the release of the N64 game may be delayed to protect Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s sales.
    5. The introduction of the GameCube controller for the Switch 2 excites competitive players, but Super Smash Bros. (N64) remains unconfirmed for inclusion.

    Super Smash Bros. for the N64 is a game that many fans wish to see added to Nintendo’s streaming classics. Recent posts on Reddit and Famiboards have uncovered hints that this title could soon be available on Nintendo Switch Online. This possible leak comes from a video showcasing Nintendo Classics features that was released on June 5th. Although it’s not definitive, a background image in the video looks very similar to the box art of the original Super Smash Bros. from 1999.

    Clues in the Video

    At around 40 seconds into the video, viewers can spot a blurry mix of colors in the lower right section of the screen. At this moment, Nintendo is highlighting the CRT filter that’s now on the Switch 2. When comparing the visuals in the clip to the Super Smash Bros. cover, you can see some matching colors in the logos and characters, including Mario. However, some doubtful gamers think the image could also resemble other N64 titles, such as Banjo-Kazooie and Mischief Makers.

    Past Teases and Future Possibilities

    Historically, promotional videos have hinted at Nintendo Classics that never came to light. Nonetheless, Nintendo has been focusing more on bringing retro games to both the Switch and Switch 2. There are some players who speculate the company might be holding back on releasing the N64 game to avoid hurting Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s sales. But it’s been seven years since the original game launched for the Switch. It’s likely that series creator Masahiro Sakurai will work on another game, though right now, he seems to be concentrating on Kirby Air Riders for the Switch 2.

    Exciting Developments for Competitive Players

    The introduction of the GameCube controller for the Switch 2 thrilled fans of competitive Super Smash Bros. Melee. Sadly, even though this console is part of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, the game itself isn’t included. If the latest leak about the box art is accurate, then it appears that the original Super Smash Bros. could be the most probable title to make a comeback.

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