Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards Joins Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack on May 20

Nintendo continues to expand its legacy gaming offerings on the Nintendo Switch with the official announcement that Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards will become available to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers starting Friday, May 20, 2022.

Originally released for the Nintendo 64 in 2000 (Japan) and 2001 (North America), this beloved platformer developed by HAL Laboratory marks the latest addition to the Nintendo 64: Nintendo Switch Online collection. Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards is celebrated for its innovative combination abilities and charming worlds, further solidifying HAL Laboratory’s status as a leading contributor to Nintendo’s platforming library.

The game invites players to join Kirby as he collects shattered crystal shards across vibrant environments, combining classic gameplay with unique power-mixing mechanics. The Nintendo 64 – Nintendo Switch Online collection, which launched in October 2021, initially debuted with nine highly regarded titles: Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Mario Kart 64, Lylat Wars, Sin and Punishment, Dr.

Mario 64, Mario Tennis 64, Operation: WinBack, and Yoshi’s Story.

Since launch, the lineup has expanded to include Paper Mario, Banjo-Kazooie, The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask, Mario Golf, and now, Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards. A spokesperson for Nintendo reaffirmed the company’s commitment to growing the platform’s retro catalog, stating that expanding access to classic titles like Kirby 64 provides both nostalgic experiences and opportunities for new players to discover iconic games. As of their latest disclosure, Nintendo Switch Online has surpassed 32 million subscribers, a significant milestone illustrating the broad appeal of the service’s online features and classic game libraries.

This growing subscriber base benefits from a tiered pricing structure: standard Nintendo Switch Online individual memberships are priced at £3.49 ($3.99) per month, £6.99 ($7.99) for three months, or £17.99 ($19.99) annually, with a 12-month Family Membership available for £31.49 ($34.99) for up to eight users. Subscribers who opt for the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack gain access to the Nintendo 64 app and additional downloadable content, including select Sega Genesis titles and other premium features.

The Expansion Pack is available as an individual plan for £34.99 ($49.99) per year or as a Family Membership for £59.99 ($79.99) annually. Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards further enriches the Nintendo Switch’s value proposition for fans of retro and classic gaming.

As Nintendo continues to invest in the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, players can look forward to more legacy titles joining the platform’s steadily growing retro library.

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