As rumors swirl about an impending new Nintendo console, the Switch’s long and successful lifespan nears its end. 2024 is likely to be the system’s last full year, with a successor on the horizon. This transition is reflected in Nintendo’s recent game offerings, with a focus on remasters and niche curveballs. With exclusives like Endless Ocean: Luminous failing to ignite excitement, you may find yourself searching for reasons to reconnect with your Switch.
Fortunately, Nintendo Switch Online subscribers have a wealth of classic games at their disposal. The service features an extensive library spanning from the NES to the Nintendo 64. Even seasoned gamers may encounter undiscovered gems within Switch Online’s offerings. This weekend, we present three recommendations for those seeking to delve into some retro gaming greatness. These selections are not random; they have been carefully chosen for their spiritual connection to some of this spring’s most anticipated releases.
Kirby and the Amazing Mirror:
This year has been a banner year for the Metroidvania genre, with releases like Tales of Kenzera: Zau, and the excitement is only escalating. Next week, the highly anticipated Animal Well from publisher Bigmode will hit the scene. While there are many excellent Metroid games available on Switch Online to satisfy your cravings, we suggest venturing off the beaten path with Kirby and the Amazing Mirror.This Game Boy Advance title is one of the most unusual and inventive games in the Kirby franchise. It breaks away from the traditional 2D stage format and instead presents players with a labyrinthine map of interconnected stages. Progress through these stages requires Kirby to return with specific abilities, adding a unique twist to the gameplay. This unconventional approach may not resonate with everyone, but it offers a fascinating perspective for enthusiasts of the genre’s history. Kirby’s skill set surprisingly aligns with the Metroidvania style, and we can only hope that the series will continue to experiment with this format in the future.
Ecco the Dolphin:
The latest major Switch release, Endless Ocean: Luminous, has taken us on a journey of underwater exploration. While it is a welcome return for a beloved franchise, Luminous’s lack of substantial content leaves something to be desired. However, you can experience the essence of underwater exploration without spending a dime by simply diving into Sega Genesis app on Switch Online and playing Ecco the Dolphin.This Sega classic places you in control of a dolphin as you navigate an underwater adventure. If you have yet to experience it, you are in for a treat. Ecco the Dolphin captivates with its enigmatic atmosphere and boasts one of the most soothing video game soundtracks ever created. Its influence is apparent in Endless Ocean: Luminous, which shares a similar fascination with aquatic mysteries. Together, these two games make for an ideal pairing, representing the past and present of underwater exploration on Nintendo consoles.
Sin and Punishment:
While April was relatively quiet in terms of major releases, one game made a significant impact: Stellar Blade. This PS5 exclusive garnered critical acclaim for its stylish combat. Although Digital Trends expressed some reservations due to its weak story and monotonous mission design, it left us yearning for more innovative and audacious action games. If you share this sentiment, then Sin and Punishment is a must-play.Nestled within the Nintendo 64 app on Switch Online, Sin and Punishment is a hidden gem waiting to be unearthed. This on-rails arcade shooter tasks you with saving the world from a monstrous uprising. It excels in its original creature designs, thrilling action set pieces, and intricate storyline twists. Sound familiar? Games like Sin and Punishment may not be as widely recognized, but their influence can be seen in titles like Stellar Blade. Sin and Punishment stands as a daring action game that fearlessly pushed boundaries, making it well worth revisiting this weekend.
These three Nintendo classics on Switch Online offer a diverse range of experiences that resonate with the latest gaming trends. Whether you’re a long-time fan of these titles or discovering them for the first time, they are sure to provide hours of entertainment. So dive into Kirby and the Amazing Mirror, immerse yourself in Ecco the Dolphin, and experience the audacity of Sin and Punishment. Let these retro gems remind you of the enduring power of classic gaming and inspire your anticipation for the future of Nintendo consoles.
