Nintendo Switch Online Adds Classic Rare Games In Major Update

Nintendo Switch Online Adds Classic Rare Games In Major Update...

Nintendo Switch Online subscribers in the U.S. gained access to four classic Rare-developed titles today, sparking excitement among retro gaming fans. The newly added games include Banjo-Kazooie, Jet Force Gemini, Blast Corps, and R.C. Pro-Am—all originally released for the Nintendo 64 in the late 1990s.

The update marks Rare's first major presence on Nintendo's subscription service since Microsoft acquired the studio in 2002. Fans have long requested these titles, which were absent from previous Nintendo re-releases due to licensing complications. The games are now playable via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier.

Social media reactions surged after Nintendo's surprise announcement this morning, with Banjo-Kazooie trending on Twitter. The 1998 platformer remains one of Rare's most beloved titles, and its inclusion could drive new subscriptions. Nintendo has not confirmed whether more Rare games will follow.

The addition comes as Nintendo prepares for its rumored Switch successor console, expected later this year. Industry analysts suggest this move may be part of a broader effort to strengthen the Switch's legacy before transitioning to new hardware. Nintendo Switch Online currently has over 38 million subscribers worldwide.

Players can access the games immediately through the Nintendo 64 app on Switch. The service also includes online multiplayer functionality for supported titles, allowing fans to revisit these classics with friends. This marks Nintendo's most significant N64 library expansion since GoldenEye 007 was added in 2023.

Rare's games join over 130 NES, SNES, Game Boy, and N64 titles already available on the service. Nintendo has not announced pricing changes, with the Expansion Pack tier remaining at $49.99 annually for individual memberships. The update is currently live in all regions where Nintendo Switch Online is available.