Aqua Jet Arcade Archives Release Recreates Authentic 1996 Experience on Nintendo Switch

Hamster has officially released Aqua Jet as part of its renowned Arcade Archives series, making Namco’s seminal 1996 jet ski arcade game available for home consoles for the very first time.

Now available on the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch, this faithful port brings retro arcade enthusiasts a rare opportunity to revisit the immersive, aquatic action that defined Aqua Jet’s original presence in arcades nearly three decades ago. Aqua Jet first made waves in 1996 with its innovative motion-controlled cabinet, inviting players to physically lean and maneuver as if they were riding a real jet ski.

The Arcade Archives edition recreates this experience by supporting motion sensor controls using the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Con controllers, offering a unique throwback for both veterans and newcomers. Industry veteran and arcade specialist AEX-RYU, who participated in the play testing process for this new release, demonstrated a prototype controller he developed specifically to recapture the original arcade cabinet’s signature controls.

AEX-RYU shared video footage of his bespoke device—a modification he initially prototyped while exploring options to adapt Aqua Jet’s arcade experience for smaller venues years ago. According to AEX-RYU, using the combination of the Switch port’s motion sensor controls and his custom-built controller, he was able to closely replicate the tactile feel of the arcade unit.

He explained that while he didn’t show his full body in his demonstration, the play posture precisely mirrored how players would interact with the original Aqua Jet machine.

Recalling his experience, he stated that attaching a gamepad brought back a strikingly authentic sensation, “capturing almost exactly how it felt to play back then.” He also noted that, due to current motion sensor technology, the up-and-down operations feel more like tilting forward and backward instead of the direct vertical movement experienced on the arcade cabinet.

This can result in slightly delayed responses during gameplay, though it does not detract from the nostalgia and excitement provided by this release. AEX-RYU expressed admiration for Hamster and Bandai Namco’s efforts in bringing Aqua Jet to modern platforms.

He remarked that releasing such an accomplished port is both impressive and deeply appreciated, describing ACA—the Arcade Archives series—as “truly amazing.” While the gameplay difficulty is balanced for a motion-based arcade environment and may seem less intense compared to other titles, Aqua Jet stands out as a fun and seasonal choice for Nintendo Switch players eager to revisit classic watersport action. With the release of Aqua Jet on Nintendo Switch, Hamster continues its commitment to preserving arcade history, delivering another standout title to the burgeoning library of Arcade Archives.

The game is now available for purchase via the Nintendo eShop.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Arcade Archives Hamster arcade Namco Aqua Jet Bandai Namco