Published on: February 25, 2025
Nintendo Switch Online has taken another significant step in enriching its retro games library, delighting fans with the addition of several classic Game Boy Advance (GBA) titles.
As part of the latest Nintendo Switch Online update, announced via the official Nintendo Direct presentation, these beloved GBA games are now accessible to subscribers with an active Expansion Pack membership.
Nintendo’s strategic expansion of its online service underscores the company’s commitment to preserving its legacy content while offering new experiences to both nostalgic gamers and newcomers.
Having launched in September 2018, Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) has grown from supporting essential multiplayer features to providing an ever-expanding catalog of classic NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, and SEGA Genesis titles.
The integration of GBA games marks a pivotal moment, bringing highly requested handheld classics to the eShop’s digital shelves.
"Our goal has always been to give Nintendo Switch Online members more value," a Nintendo spokesperson stated.
"By introducing Game Boy Advance titles to our lineup, we’re delivering on our promise to make timeless classics available wherever and whenever our community wants to play."
The newly added GBA library features critically acclaimed titles such as 'The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap,' 'Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros.
3,' and 'Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga.' These games have been faithfully emulated to capture their original charm while benefiting from modern Switch features, including online multiplayer and save states.
Gamers can now enjoy couch co-op, challenge friends online, or simply revisit favorites with the convenience of the Nintendo Switch’s hybrid functionality.
Since its inception, Nintendo Switch Online has achieved remarkable milestones, with Nintendo reporting over 36 million subscribers as of May 2023.
The addition of Game Boy Advance games is expected to further enhance its appeal and market position, reinforcing Nintendo’s commitment to long-term software support and retro game preservation.
Access to GBA games requires the NSO Expansion Pack, which debuted in October 2021, bundling in additional Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis content for an annual fee.
This tiered service structure has been widely praised for its value proposition, and industry commentators note the steady cadence of new content updates as a factor in NSO’s sustained growth.
As Nintendo continues to roll out classic titles on the eShop, the Switch is increasingly cementing its status as a hub for retro gaming enthusiasts.
With regular updates, ongoing support, and a responsive approach to fan requests, Nintendo Switch Online remains a must-have subscription for both seasoned fans and newcomers seeking timeless gameplay experiences.
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