By Jon Scarr
Nintendo has updated its Nintendo Classics library once again, bringing a new batch of retro titles to Nintendo Switch Online. If you enjoy revisiting older games or just want to fill in gaps in your collection, this update adds a nice mix across the NES and Game Boy libraries.
Here’s what’s new.
Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Classics
• Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos
The sequel to the original action-platformer brings tougher stages, new moves, and some of the most memorable boss encounters on the NES.
• BATTLETOADS
Known for its fast-paced combat and infamous difficulty spikes, this NES classic remains one of the most talked-about retro beat-’em-ups.
Game Boy – Nintendo Classics
• Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters
The Game Boy follow-up to the original Kid Icarus brings new levels and upgrades as Pit battles through a fresh set of underworld challenges.
• Bionic Commando
A handheld version of Capcom’s swing-based action platformer. No jumping here — just grappling, climbing, and blasting through side-scrolling missions.
I’m pretty excited about this update. Each of these games hits a different memory for me. Ninja Gaiden II was one of the first NES games that genuinely pushed my patience, but finally clearing a stage always felt great. Battletoads was pure chaos back then, and I remember handing the controller to a friend whenever the Turbo Tunnel came up because I could never get through it cleanly.
On the Game Boy side, Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters was one of those games I played on long car rides, and seeing it pop up again brought back that same feeling instantly. And Bionic Commando was the one game that taught me you don’t always need a jump button to have fun. Having all four back on Nintendo Switch Online makes it a lot easier to revisit them, and I’m looking forward to jumping back in.