Operation Night Strikers Release Date Announced for Nintendo Switch in Japan

Taito and developer M2 have officially confirmed that Operation Night Strikers, a highly anticipated arcade compilation, will launch for Nintendo Switch on August 7, 2025, in Japan.

Known for their expertise in preserving and revitalizing classic games, Taito and M2 have curated an exciting collection of retro shooters, each presented in both console and arcade formats.

Operation Night Strikers first made headlines in November when it was announced for Steam, generating interest among arcade fans and collectors.

The Taito blog has since confirmed that Nintendo’s hybrid platform, the Switch, will also be included in the release lineup, bringing the beloved series to a new generation of players.

While the current release date is only officially set for Japan, global fans eagerly await news of a wider launch, as the collection's Steam page still states a general '2025' window. The compilation initially featured two classics: the NES title Operation Wolf and the MEGA CD’s Night Striker.

Thanks to the Switch announcement, the roster has expanded to include the SNES shooter Thunderbolt and the Master System's Space Gun.

This robust selection ensures that Operation Night Strikers delivers an authentic and comprehensive experience for both new players and longtime arcade enthusiasts. Operation Night Strikers is more than just a nostalgic trip.

The compilation adds numerous modern features to enhance gameplay, such as save states, customizable video filters that mimic classic arcade monitors, the ability to upload and view top-ranking player data, and support for the Cyber Stick intelligent controller.

Additionally, players can enjoy viewing play data and using gadgets that display helpful information on either side of the game's display.

Another notable addition is Night Striker Gear, a brand-new game in the Night Striker franchise.

According to the latest information from Taito, this exclusive title will be available as a bonus for those who pre-order the collection.

This news follows a growing trend of including new, original content alongside retro compilations, further increasing the value and appeal for fans. For reference, here’s a quick rundown of the included games in Operation Night Strikers: - Operation Wolf: Navigate hostile territory solo, utilizing a machine gun and rocket-propelled grenades to rescue hostages and ensure their safe extraction. - Operation Thunderbolt: Join Roy Adams and Hardy Jones in a daring hostage rescue mission across Africa, facing dangerous odds in this sequel to Operation Wolf. - Night Striker: Take on the role of a United Nations Special Action Force member piloting a high-speed combat hovercraft in a futuristic showdown against a terrorist organization. - Space Gun: Set in the year 2039, players must overcome terrifying extraterrestrial threats during a rescue mission on a space station, armed with a versatile rifle. Operation Night Strikers aims to capture the essence of ’80s and ’90s arcade gaming while providing a suite of enhancements for modern audiences.

The collection will be available via the Nintendo Switch eShop in Japan starting on August 7, 2025, with further updates expected regarding an international release.

For the latest details and future announcements, keep an eye on official Taito channels and Nintendo Direct presentations.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Japan Switch Taito arcade M2 Operation Night Strikers