Nintendo Switch Online has become the main place for gamers to access Nintendo's library of classic titles. The service currently offers a number of incredible games, including titles that were once considered a lost cause, such as Banjo-Kazooie and Golden Eye 007. However, to say that NSO has every classic title a gamer could ask for would be a stretch.
Although it has an impressive library, NSO still misses many of Nintendo's classic games. These absences are a huge disappointment, as they deny Nintendo fans an accessible way to experience these much-loved titles. Fortunately, NSO is constantly updating, which means there's always a chance that some of these classics will be added eventually. In fact, with the Switch 2 just around the corner, 2025 could be the perfect time to prove to gamers that Nintendo remains committed to supporting NSO in the next generation.
10
Donkey Kong
First released for Game Boy in 1994
Initially, Donkey Kong for Game Boy doesn't feel like a necessary addition to NSO, as it feels like a simple port of the arcade classic. However, Donkey Kong It's misleading in that way, hiding an avalanche of creative and challenging levels behind the initial arcade game the players are well adjusted. Donkey Kong goes from a simple version to an excellent platformer and puzzle game, serving as a precursor to success Mario vs. Donkey Kong series of puzzle games.
Even though it's a great title, Donkey Kong has not always received the recognition it deserves. In the 30 years following its launch, Donkey Kong it was only re-released once for the 3DS Virtual Console, severely limiting its reach to current Nintendo gamers. It's a shame that many players don't get to experience what this game has to offer, making Donkey Kong a necessary addition to the NSO.
9
Kid Icarus: of myths and monsters
First released for Game Boy in 1991
THE Icarus Boy the series has never had the best of luck. With just three noteworthy titles, the series inspired by Greek myth joins names like F-Zero and Star Fox as a beloved IP that remains largely forgotten by Nintendo. Because of this, some of Pit's adventures are often kept in the shadows, and this is especially true in his second outing, titled Of Myths and Monsters.
Similar to Donkey Kong, Of myths and monsters saw only one re-release for the 3DS Virtual Console. However, Of myths and monstersthe absence of is arguably more disturbing, as it is one of the few games that players should remember Icarus Boy put. Of myths and monstersAdding NSO to NSO would not only be a great addition for members to try out, but it would be a necessary step to avoid the Icarus Boy series fell into obscurity.
8
WarioWare: Twisted!
First released for Game Boy Advance in 2005
WarioWare: Twisted!The lack of recognition is almost tragic, as the game serves as a pivotal point in Nintendo's history. The implementation of the gyroscope sensor in Twisted!The cartridge was considered revolutionary at the time. The use of the gyroscope was a perfect complement to the game's gameplay. Twisted!with the frantic movements only adding to the chaos and adrenaline that is a central part of the Wario Ware series.
Twisted! is an early example of Nintendo's fascination with gyroscope controls that would carry over to the company's later consoles, making it an important title in its history. A game with so much meaning deserves the chance to be experienced by players old and new to NSO. Twisted! It's also a perfect game for Switch, which uses gyroscope controls for several of its flagship titles, meaning new players won't miss out on the original experience.
7
Conker's Bad Skin Day
First released for N64 in 2001
Conker's Bad Skin Day is arguably the strangest of Rare's many beloved platformers. The unlikely mix of cartoonish visuals and crude adult humor is a stark contrast to the more light-hearted tone of something like Banjo-Kazooie. However, it was this conflict of elements that gave Conker its charm, resulting in rave reviews upon release.
The recent addition of other beloved rare originals to NSO such as Golden Eye 007 and Perfect Darkfrom the Conker the chance to make a long-awaited return. The game's aim for an older audience also makes it a perfect inclusion in NSO's mature N64 library.which desperately needs more titles. There are so many reasons why Conker it would be a great addition to the service, making its absence truly disconcerting.
6
Sonic Advance Trilogy
First released for Game Boy Advance from 2001 to 2004
THE Sonic Advance the trilogy of games remains an important part of the Blue Blur story. While Sonic Team explored the mascot's jump to 3D on home consoles, developer Dimps continued the character's 2D outings on the GBA, finding new and inventive ways to advance the formula. From the new playable characters to the option to pair any character in Sonic Advance 3, Dimps was committed to taking the 2D series forward, creating an excellent series of platformers.
THE Sonic Advance the trilogy would serve as a great addition to NSO, making its return to a Nintendo console for the first time since its initial release (excluding the Japan-exclusive re-release on Wii U). Sega has shown interest in the past in making its titles available to Switch players, with NSO including a library of Sega Genesis games. This would give the trilogy the perfect opportunity to get the same recognition from gamers that Sonic's Genesis outings consistently receive.
5
Diddy Kong Racing
First released for N64 in 1997
Rare's take on a kart racing game was truly unique. Diddy Kong Racing is full of personality and varietywith players capable of facing each other on the ground, in the air or even in the water. The addition of an adventure mode, with multiple worlds and bosses to race through, only solidified the title as one of the most creative racing games of the time, and made Diddy Kong Racing a genuine Mario Kart competitor.
Diddy Kong Racing remains one of the few rare titles on the N64 that has yet to appear on the NSO. Aside from a remake on the Nintendo DS, the title has often been left behind by Nintendo, denying newer players the chance to experience such an inventive kart racing game. With the warm reception given to Rare's other classics on the service, it would certainly be a boost for NSO to add Diddy Kong Racing to your library in 2025.
4
Super Smash Bros.
First released for N64 in 1999
The original Super Smash Bros. it was unlike any other fighting game at the time. The main objective of driving characters off the stage created a unique premise that contrasted with the likes of street fighter and Mortal Kombat. Furthermore, the idea of a fighting game that included some of Nintendo's best franchises would have sounded like a pipe dreamyet Smash Bros. made it happen.
That's shocking Smash Bros. was not added to NSO. The original game is still excellent to play today, while its polygonal art style offers Smash Bros. this unique charm that is different from the other titles in the series. Smash Bros. remains an important game that deserves to be recognized for its impact on the fighting genre.
3
Chrono Trigger
First released for SNES in 1995
Chrono Trigger It's still as timeless as when it was released. To this day, the game is still considered a fundamental title for the RPG genre and for games in general. Everything from the controls, story, presentation, and soundtrack has solidified Chrono Triggeras one of the greatest RPGs ever made.
With such a high status, Chrono Trigger has made multiple appearances across multiple consoles, giving the beloved classic ample opportunity to be experienced by as many people as possible. And yet, the game still doesn't have a re-release for current Switch players to enjoy. Chrono TriggerAdding NSO to NSO seems like a no-brainer considering the game's popularity and impact, making it a top priority for the service in 2025.
2
Pokémon Red and Blue
First released on Game Boy in 1996
Current support for Pokemon on NSO it's incredibly confusing. As of December 2024, the service features a variety of beloved titles from the series, including Pokémon Snap and Pokémon Stadium. However, despite all of these titles being included, NSO appears to be ignoring the games that started it all.
Pokémon Red and Blue These are titles that are still held in high regardshowcasing the series' many features and capabilities that make the franchise so beloved. Red and BlueThe addition of NSO to NSO would be a perfect opportunity for players to visit the place where the entire series began. Furthermore, its inclusion can be a good starting point for new players who may be more daunted by the abundance of content included in later generations.
1
Mother 3
First released on the Game Boy Advance in 2006
Years after its first release, Mother 3 It may still be the most requested Nintendo game to be brought to the West. EarthboundIts status as one of the greatest RPGs of all time should be reason enough to Mother 3 receive the global recognition it deserves. Unfortunately, this has not yet happened, with Mother 3 being kept exclusive to NSO in Japan in December 2024.
However, there may still be hope for Mother 3 as Nintendo has shown interest in bringing more Japanese-exclusive titles to NSO in the West. More recently, Nintendo released F-Zero Climax to Nintendo Switch Online across the world, marking its first release outside of Japan. With more games being brought to the West, then maybe, just maybe, we'll finally be able to get our hands on Mother 3 in 2025.