Nintendo Switch Online subscribers are in for a nostalgic treat as the service adds three new Super Nintendo classics, with one particular title finally stepping onto the Western stage after a remarkable three-decade hiatus.
In a move that’s sure to delight retro gaming aficionados and curious newcomers alike, Nintendo has expanded its Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) library with a trio of vintage Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) titles. While any addition to the service is welcome, the undeniable star of this latest wave is a game many in the West have only heard whispers about: Mario & Wario.
The Three-Decade Journey of Mario & Wario
Released originally in 1993 exclusively in Japan, Mario & Wario has spent the better part of three decades as an elusive entry in Mario`s extensive bibliography. Developed by a studio that would later become synonymous with collecting adorable creatures—none other than Game Freak, the creators of Pokémon—this puzzle-platformer offers a unique glimpse into the developer`s pre-Pikachu era. It`s a rather peculiar piece of gaming history, especially considering that the game reportedly featured English text from the start, patiently waiting for its international spotlight to finally arrive.
What`s the Wario-induced Predicament?
The premise of Mario & Wario is delightfully absurd. The villainous Wario, in a characteristic display of mischief, has managed to plant a bucket firmly on Mario`s head, rendering the iconic plumber sightless. Players don`t actually control Mario directly. Instead, you guide a forest fairy named Wanda, using her magical abilities to clear paths and manipulate the environment, ensuring Mario navigates 100 levels safely. It`s a charmingly inventive concept that emphasizes strategic thinking over direct action.
A notable aspect of the original 1993 release was its reliance on mouse controls, a rather unconventional input method for a console game of that era. For its Nintendo Switch Online debut, Nintendo, ever resourceful, has adapted this unique control scheme. Current Switch owners can now utilize a Joy-Con controller held sideways to mimic the precise movements of a mouse, making this classic accessible without needing a vintage peripheral or a USB mouse (though that option remains available for those who prefer the authentic experience). It’s an elegant solution to a very 90s problem, proving that sometimes, you just need to tilt a controller to bring the past to life.
More Retro Riches: Bubsy and Fatal Fury Special
While Mario & Wario steals the headlines, the other two SNES additions are no less significant for fans of classic gaming:
- Bubsy in: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind: For those with a penchant for platforming mascots of the 90s, Bubsy`s inaugural adventure is now available. This title introduces players to the wisecracking bobcat whose notoriety often precedes his actual gameplay. It`s a chance to revisit a polarizing character, perhaps in preparation for any potential future endeavors he might embark on—or simply to appreciate a piece of platforming history.
- Fatal Fury Special: Fighting game enthusiasts can dive into this expanded iteration of SNK`s classic. Fatal Fury Special builds upon Fatal Fury 2, bringing a larger roster and refined gameplay. Players can now take control of characters like Axel Hawk, who previously only appeared as a CPU boss, offering a deeper dive into the King of Fighters` precursor universe.
The Ever-Growing Nintendo Switch Online Library
These latest SNES additions underscore Nintendo`s ongoing commitment to enriching the Switch Online service. The platform has been steadily expanding its retro offerings, reaching further back into gaming history. Recently, the premium Expansion Pack tier saw the surprising, albeit accessory-dependent, introduction of Virtual Boy games. Earlier this year, Nintendo also delighted subscribers with the arrival of GameCube titles for Expansion Pack members, continually bridging generations of Nintendo consoles.
A Note on Pricing:
For those considering subscribing, the basic Nintendo Switch Online tier costs $20 annually for individuals ($35 for a family plan). The Expansion Pack, which grants access to a broader selection of retro platforms and additional benefits, is priced at $50 annually for individuals ($80 for families).
The arrival of Mario & Wario, especially after its lengthy absence from Western markets, is more than just another game addition; it`s a small but significant moment for video game preservation and a delightful discovery for many. Nintendo Switch Online continues to serve as a digital archive, allowing players new and old to experience the evolution of gaming, sometimes even unearthing forgotten gems developed by future titans of the industry.
