Nintendo Switch Online members are in for a treat as three new Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) games have been added to the service, prominently featuring a title making its North American debut after decades. The highlight is Mario & Wario, a unique puzzle-platformer from 1993, notably developed by Game Freak—the studio that would later create the Pokémon phenomenon. Despite its initial confinement to Japan, the game has always included English text, making its delayed US release even more intriguing.
This classic adventure tasks players with guiding Mario to safety after Wario has, true to form, placed a bucket over his head. Players control a forest fairy to clear obstacles across 100 levels. Uniquely, Mario & Wario requires mouse controls. While the original game utilized a traditional mouse, the newer Switch 2 allows for intuitive control using a Joy-Con held on its side, adapting the experience for modern hardware.
More Retro Gems Join the Library
Accompanying Mario & Wario are two other beloved retro titles now available to subscribers:
- Bubsy in: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind: An opportunity to revisit or get acquainted with the wise-cracking bobcat.
- Fatal Fury Special: A classic fighting game that lets players step into the shoes of various characters, including Axel Hawk, who was a formidable CPU boss in the original Fatal Fury 2.
Expanding the Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Beyond these SNES additions, Nintendo continues to expand its premium Switch Online + Expansion Pack offerings. Last month, it was announced that the Virtual Boy platform would arrive for members, although an accessory is required for play. Earlier this year, classic GameCube games also made their way to Switch 2 owners subscribed to the Expansion Pack.
The Switch Online + Expansion Pack continues to grow its library with additions like classic GameCube titles.
For those looking to join, a basic Switch Online membership costs $20 annually for individuals ($35 for a family plan), while the Expansion Pack tier is priced at $50 annually ($80 for families), providing access to an even broader library of classic games and additional benefits.