For years, online subscription services for video games have been the topic of much discussion within the gaming circles. While certain features of online services for PlayStation and Xbox consoles have been locked behind a paywall for quite some time now, Nintendo only recently followed suit withNintendo Switch Onlineback in 2018, which introduced the company’s first paid online service. Now, it is much of an industry standard to require a membership to play many non-free-to-play games online with others.
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NES and SNES Library
While Nintendo doesn’t seem to keep a regular or monthly schedule when it comes to releasing new NES and SNES games for NSO members, it’s worth noting that the library of games is always growing. Services likePS Plus and Xbox Live Goldtend to make its free games available for download only during a certain month, while Nintendo Switch Online members always have access to every game added to the library of classic games. This is likely due to the decreased value of older games in a digital format, which may also play into the lower $20/year price point of the online service.
Tetris 99, Pac-Man 99, and More
Back in February of 2019, Nintendo Switch Online members were given free access toTetris 99, a battle royale-styled version of the age-old puzzle game. Ever since release, the game, developed by Arika, has received updates and events to keep players coming back, as well as additional paid DLC containing new game modes. As a part ofSuper Mario Bros.’s 35th anniversary celebrations, Nintendo and Arika brought fans a similar battle royale-styled version of the classic NES game, withSuper Mario Bros. 35,where 35 players competed to remain the last Mario standing.
Of course,Super Mario Bros. 35is no longer available for download or play now that Nintendo has ceased celebrations for the plumber’s 35th birthday, but developer Arika snapped right back shortly after,bringing NSO membersPac-Man 99.Like thegames before it,Pac-Man99is the classic arcade game with a multiplayer battle royale spin. While these games aren’t on the same level as free PS Plus games likeControlorFinal Fantasy 7 Remake, they are neat additions to Nintendo Switch Online, at least adding a bit more value to the more budget-friendly subscription service.
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Game Trials
