Nintendo Switch Online + N64: Your Ultimate Guide

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Nintendo Switch Online + N64: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey gamers! Are you ready to dive back into the golden age of gaming? I am talking about the Nintendo 64 era, a time of groundbreaking 3D graphics, unforgettable characters, and iconic games. And guess what? You can experience all of that goodness on your Nintendo Switch! Thanks to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, you can access a library of classic Nintendo 64 games. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch Online + N64 service, from the games available to the features and benefits. Let's get started!

What is Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack?

So, what exactly is the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack? Well, it's an upgraded tier of the standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription. The base Nintendo Switch Online service gives you access to online multiplayer, cloud saves, and a library of classic NES and SNES games. The Expansion Pack takes it a step further, adding a rotating selection of Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis games, plus access to DLC for some popular Switch titles. Think of it as a premium pass for retro gaming, providing a gateway to relive your childhood favorites or experience them for the first time. Getting a Nintendo Switch Online subscription unlocks a treasure trove of content that's sure to keep you entertained for hours.

Now, the big question on everyone's mind is always going to be: Is it worth it? The answer, as with most things, depends on you and what you're looking for. If you're a big fan of N64 games, or if you're curious to try them out, then the Expansion Pack is a solid deal. The price is a bit higher than the base Nintendo Switch Online subscription, but you're getting a lot more content, including some of the best games ever made. Plus, it's a great way to experience these games on the go. You can play them on your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode, or you can hook it up to your TV for a more classic console experience. Another plus is that if you have friends that are also interested, then you can team up and play online together. You can enjoy the multiplayer modes of some of these classic games with your buddies.

Before you go ahead and commit, it's always a good idea to consider what the subscription offers, and whether or not that aligns with your gaming interests. Consider your budget and whether or not it's something you're comfortable with spending money on. If you're looking for more classic games beyond the NES and SNES offerings, or if you simply want to experience the magic of the Nintendo 64 once again, then the Expansion Pack is a no-brainer. This makes it an especially attractive option for those who are all about playing retro games! Seriously, the nostalgia is worth it!

Nintendo 64 Games Available

The heart of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is, of course, the N64 game library. The list of games has been growing since the service launched, and Nintendo has been adding more titles over time. This is awesome because it keeps the service fresh and exciting, and gives players more reasons to keep coming back. Some of the iconic N64 titles are:

  • Super Mario 64: This game is a true classic and a must-play for anyone who loves platformers. It's the game that launched Mario into the 3D world, and it's still just as fun today as it was back in the day.
  • Mario Kart 64: Get ready to race, guys! This is a legendary kart racer that's perfect for playing with friends. The battle mode is fantastic, and the tracks are iconic. This is where the blue shell was first introduced, and it's something that changed the landscape of racing forever.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Arguably one of the greatest games ever made, Ocarina of Time is an epic adventure that will transport you to a magical world. If you've never played this game, you're missing out! This is one of the most important games of all time and is a must-play title for any gamer.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask: This game is a bit darker and more mysterious than Ocarina of Time, but it's still an amazing experience. It's a cult classic that many people consider to be one of the best Zelda games ever.
  • Star Fox 64: Blast off into space and battle against the forces of Andross in this action-packed shooter. It's a blast to play, and it's a great way to experience the magic of the N64.
  • GoldenEye 007: A groundbreaking first-person shooter that redefined the genre, featuring a fantastic single-player campaign and addictive multiplayer.
  • Banjo-Kazooie: This charming platformer is full of quirky characters, vibrant worlds, and clever gameplay. It's another classic that's a lot of fun to play, and it's a great choice for kids and adults alike.
  • Pokémon Stadium: Battle your favorite Pokémon in exciting 3D arenas with this fun and nostalgic game. This game is one that is an absolute must-have for all of the Pokémon fans out there. It's just a lot of fun to play, and it's a great way to experience the magic of the Pokémon universe.
  • Paper Mario: A unique and charming RPG with a distinctive paper-themed aesthetic. It's a great game that's perfect for anyone who loves RPGs, and it's a great way to experience the magic of the Paper Mario universe.

And many more! Nintendo continues to add new games to the library, so you can expect the selection to grow over time. This is awesome because it means that there's always something new to play. When selecting games for the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, Nintendo is very strategic. They release games to keep the service fresh and exciting, and they often consider what games are going to make the most impact.

Keep in mind that the availability of specific games may vary depending on your region. Make sure to check the official Nintendo website or the Nintendo Switch Online app for the most up-to-date list of available titles in your area. This will make it easier for you to plan out your gaming experience and determine what games you want to play. Remember, all of the games are available at no additional cost to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers.

Features and Benefits

Beyond the library of games, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers several features and benefits. These enhancements greatly improve the overall gaming experience.

  • Online Multiplayer: Relive the thrill of playing classic N64 games with friends online! This is a fantastic way to experience these games with your friends, and it's a great way to make new friends. You can team up with your friends and battle each other, or you can work together to complete challenges.
  • Save States: Take a break whenever you need to! This is a great feature that allows you to save your progress at any time. This is especially helpful if you're playing a long game, or if you just need to take a break.
  • Rewind Feature: Made a mistake? Don't worry! The rewind feature lets you go back in time to fix it. This is a game-changer for those tricky platforming sections or intense boss battles.
  • Controller Options: You can use the standard Joy-Cons, the Pro Controller, or, for the most authentic experience, the Nintendo 64 controller, available for purchase separately. This allows you to customize your gaming experience to your liking.
  • Regular Updates: Nintendo is committed to adding more games and features to the Expansion Pack, so you can expect a growing library and new experiences over time. This keeps the service fresh and exciting, and gives players more reasons to keep coming back. Nintendo is constantly listening to the fans and bringing them what they want. They always want to be at the forefront of the gaming community, and one way they do that is by providing awesome updates to their services.

How to Get Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Getting started is easy! If you're already a Nintendo Switch Online subscriber, you can upgrade to the Expansion Pack directly through the Nintendo eShop. The process is very straightforward, and you can usually have access within minutes. If you are not a subscriber, you'll need to purchase a membership.

There are two main membership options:

  • Individual Membership: This is for a single user and is a great option if you're the only one in your household who wants to play. It's affordable and gives you access to everything the Expansion Pack has to offer.
  • Family Membership: This covers up to eight Nintendo Accounts, making it a great deal if you have a family or a group of friends who want to share the benefits. This is a fantastic option if you have friends that also play video games on the Switch. It's a fun way for everyone to enjoy the benefits of the service.

Once you've subscribed, you can download the N64 games from the Nintendo eShop, and you're ready to start playing! You can find the games in the dedicated N64 section of the eShop. Just search for the game you want and download it. You can access the N64 games from the main menu of your Nintendo Switch.

Tips and Tricks for Playing N64 Games

  • Controller Setup: Experiment with different controller options to find the one that feels most comfortable for you. Some people prefer the Joy-Cons, while others love the Pro Controller. The N64 controller is the most authentic experience.
  • Adjusting Graphics: Nintendo Switch Online offers some customization options for the games, such as display settings. You can adjust the graphics to your liking, and you can also choose between different aspect ratios.
  • Mastering the Controls: The N64 games were designed with a specific control scheme in mind. Take some time to get familiar with the controls before diving into the game. It will make your gaming experience much better! If you're struggling to understand the controls, then consider going online and looking for tips and tricks.
  • Embrace the Nostalgia: Take a moment to appreciate the history of these games. Remember, these games were groundbreaking at the time, and they helped shape the gaming landscape as we know it today. Just take a deep breath and have fun. That's the most important thing!
  • Explore Online Multiplayer: If a game has online multiplayer, don't be afraid to try it out! It's a great way to connect with other gamers and relive the magic of these classic titles. The online community is very friendly, and you're bound to make some new friends.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is a fantastic way to revisit the Nintendo 64 era and enjoy some of the greatest games ever made. With a growing library, online multiplayer, and other features, it offers a lot of value for retro gaming fans. If you're a fan of classic games, this is definitely something you should consider. So, dust off your old memories, grab your controller, and get ready for a trip down memory lane. I hope this guide has helped you! Happy gaming!