Published on: April 23, 2025
Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones Launches on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Nintendo has expanded the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack roster with yet another acclaimed strategy release: Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones.
Originally launched in 2005 for the Game Boy Advance, this critically celebrated tactical RPG is now accessible to a new generation of players through the Nintendo Switch eShop, provided they have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription.
A Cornerstone in Tactical Role-Playing Game History
Developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo, Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones stands out as one of the most highly-regarded entries in the Fire Emblem franchise.
Set in the embattled kingdom of Renais, the game follows royal siblings Eirika and Ephraim as they set out to reclaim their homeland from invading forces.
Combining deep strategic gameplay with memorable characters and a compelling narrative, The Sacred Stones is often cited as a must-play for fans of the strategy RPG (SRPG) genre.
This release comes in tandem with the official soundtrack for Fire Emblem Engage, shining a renewed spotlight on the franchise’s ongoing legacy and musical achievements.
In a statement from Nintendo regarding this update, the company emphasized that Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones is more than a classic title; it's a superior SRPG experience that long-time fans and newcomers alike should revisit or discover for the first time.
Challenging Gameplay and Classic Features
Like its predecessors, The Sacred Stones features permadeath—a system where defeated units are lost permanently, reinforcing the weight of each tactical decision.
Players must employ careful positioning, take advantage of terrain, and utilize the iconic weapon triangle system to maximize their chances of survival.
The game’s unique branching class system also supports a high level of replayability and strategy-focused customization.
How to Play Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones on Switch
Subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can now access Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones at no extra cost with the latest update to the Game Boy Advance app.
To play, users can visit the eShop, download the app, and immediately jump into this SRPG classic.
The addition of The Sacred Stones not only enriches the Nintendo Switch Online library but also underlines Nintendo’s commitment to preserving key titles from its extensive back catalog.
Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones remains a testament to excellent game design, offering challenging turn-based combat and a rich storyline.
With its arrival on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, both dedicated tacticians and a new generation of players have the opportunity to experience this Game Boy Advance gem firsthand.
Nintendo Switch Fire Emblem Nintendo Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack Switch Online Switch eShop