Nintendo Switch Online + N64: Your Ultimate Guide

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Nintendo Switch Online + N64: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey gaming fanatics! Ever since the Nintendo Switch Online service launched, it's been a game-changer. It's like having a digital arcade in your pocket, right? And when Nintendo decided to add the Nintendo 64 library into the mix, things got seriously exciting. If you're wondering what the fuss is all about, how to get in on the action, or just want a refresher course, you've stumbled upon the right place. Let's dive deep into everything you need to know about Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, and how it’s bringing those classic N64 vibes back to life!

What is Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack?

Alright, let's break this down for you, guys. Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that unlocks a bunch of cool features for your Nintendo Switch. It's your ticket to playing online multiplayer games, backing up your save data, and getting access to a growing library of classic games. Now, the original NSO gives you access to NES and SNES games, which is awesome in itself. But then, Nintendo went and dropped the Expansion Pack, and that’s where things get really interesting. The Expansion Pack is a premium tier of NSO that gives you access to even more retro goodness, including, you guessed it, Nintendo 64 games and Sega Genesis games! This means you can relive your childhood (or discover some awesome retro games for the first time) with a library of classic titles right on your Switch. Plus, you get access to DLC for some popular games, like the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass. It's like the ultimate retro gaming package, all wrapped up in one subscription. Think of it as the VIP pass to the Nintendo Switch Online party. You get the basic perks like online play, save data cloud storage, and access to NES and SNES classics. But with the Expansion Pack, you're getting a whole lot more! Let's get into the specifics, shall we?

Included Benefits

  • Online Multiplayer: The core feature: play with your friends and other gamers online. Games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and many more come alive with online battles and races. This is the cornerstone of the whole service, keeping you connected with your friends and other players.
  • Cloud Saves: No more worrying about losing your precious game progress! Cloud saves back up your game data so you can pick up where you left off, even if you switch consoles or your Switch takes a tumble. It's an essential feature for peace of mind.
  • Classic Game Libraries (NES & SNES): Access a library of retro games from the NES and SNES era, a delightful trip down memory lane. Games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Super Metroid are available to play. It's like having a virtual retro console at your fingertips.
  • Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis Games (Expansion Pack): The real stars of the show! The Expansion Pack grants you access to a selection of beloved N64 and Sega Genesis games, like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Sonic the Hedgehog 2. The ability to play these nostalgic titles on the Switch is a game-changer for many.
  • DLC Access (Expansion Pack): Select titles get extra content, like the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass which gives you access to a bunch of new tracks. It's a nice bonus to sweeten the deal.

How to Get Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Alright, so you're itching to get your hands on those classic N64 games, huh? The process is super straightforward. First, you'll need a Nintendo Switch and an active internet connection. Then, you'll have to choose a subscription plan. You can opt for the standard Nintendo Switch Online plan, which gives you access to NES and SNES games, online play, and cloud saves. But, if you want to get into the Nintendo 64 action, you'll have to go for the Expansion Pack. This is a higher tier that includes everything in the base plan, plus the N64 and Sega Genesis games. The Expansion Pack is available as an individual or family membership, so you can choose whichever suits your needs best. Once you've chosen your plan, just head over to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch, find the Nintendo Switch Online section, and subscribe. You can pay with a credit card, PayPal, or even Nintendo eShop cards. Once you're subscribed, the N64 and Sega Genesis games are all yours to download and enjoy! It's that simple, guys. Now you can get those retro games on your Switch!

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Have a Nintendo Switch: This is kind of a no-brainer. If you don't have one, you won't be playing anything.
  2. Internet Connection: You'll need a stable internet connection to download games and play online.
  3. Choose a Subscription Plan: Decide between the standard Nintendo Switch Online or the Expansion Pack. If you want N64 games, you must choose the Expansion Pack.
  4. Visit the Nintendo eShop: Open the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
  5. Find Nintendo Switch Online: Look for the Nintendo Switch Online section.
  6. Select a Plan and Subscribe: Choose your desired plan (individual or family) and follow the prompts to subscribe. You'll need to enter your payment information.
  7. Download Games: Once subscribed, you can download the available N64 and Sega Genesis games from the Nintendo Switch Online section.
  8. Start Playing! Fire up those classic games and enjoy the nostalgia!

What Games are Available on Nintendo 64?

Okay, let's talk about the good stuff. The Nintendo 64 library on the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is a real treat for retro gaming enthusiasts. The list includes some of the most iconic and beloved games of all time. We're talking about games that defined a generation, guys. At launch, the library included Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. These are titles that have stood the test of time, still delivering amazing gameplay experiences even decades later. Over time, Nintendo has added more games to the lineup. Some other titles you can expect to find include Star Fox 64, Yoshi's Story, Banjo-Kazooie, and F-Zero X, with more promised in the future. It’s like a never-ending gift, a growing collection of titles to keep you busy. This constant addition of games makes the Expansion Pack even more worthwhile. The games have been optimized for the Switch, so you can enjoy them with modern features and conveniences. Nintendo is committed to keeping the library fresh, and we can look forward to more classic games being added in the future. This commitment to adding new games is one of the biggest draws of the service. You can expect to see titles like Pokémon Snap and Pilotwings 64. This ensures that there is always something new to enjoy. With a growing library, there is always a reason to come back and replay your old favorites, or experience them for the first time. The variety of games ensures that there is something for everyone. Whether you are into action, racing, adventure, or puzzle games. The Nintendo 64 lineup is pretty diverse.

Notable N64 Games

  • Super Mario 64: The game that revolutionized 3D platforming. It's a must-play for any Nintendo fan.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Often hailed as one of the greatest games of all time. A true masterpiece.
  • Mario Kart 64: Classic kart racing fun with friends and family.
  • Star Fox 64: Blast through space in your Arwing and take down the evil Andross.
  • Banjo-Kazooie: A charming platformer with plenty of collectibles and wacky characters.
  • Yoshi's Story: A colorful and delightful platformer starring everyone's favorite dinosaur.
  • F-Zero X: A high-speed futuristic racing game that pushes the limits of speed.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Alright, let’s talk about the moolah, the dough, the cold hard cash. How much is this going to set you back? The cost of Nintendo Switch Online depends on the plan you choose. The standard plan, which gives you access to NES and SNES games, online play, and cloud saves, is the more affordable option. You can subscribe on a monthly, 3-month, or 12-month basis, with the annual plan offering the best value. The cost is quite reasonable, especially if you're a regular online player. Now, when it comes to the Expansion Pack, the price goes up a bit. This is because you're getting access to the N64 and Sega Genesis games, plus DLC for some games. The Expansion Pack is available as an individual or family membership. The individual membership is good for one person, while the family membership allows up to eight users to access the service. The family membership is a great deal if you have multiple Nintendo Switch consoles in your household or if you want to share the cost with friends. It's important to remember that these are subscription services, so you'll need to renew your membership to keep playing the games. But, when you consider the value you get – the online play, cloud saves, the libraries of classic games, and DLC – the price is well worth it, in my opinion. Overall, the pricing is fair and offers good value for the features you receive. It's all about deciding which plan fits your gaming needs and budget. But for any fan of retro games, the Expansion Pack is a worthy investment.

Nintendo Switch Online Pricing Breakdown

  • Nintendo Switch Online (Standard):
    • Individual (1 month):