For many, the primary reason to maintain a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is the Nintendo Classics library. While the release cadence remains slow—typically just two or three titles a month—the second quarter of 2026 brought a handful of interesting, if eclectic, additions to the service.
NES Gems and Arcade Classics
The Nintendo Entertainment System app received its only update of the year so far on April 9, bringing three titles to the platform. The most recognizable of the bunch is the NES port of Pac-Man. While it is a faithful recreation, it serves mostly as a standard maze game compared to the more compelling Ms. PAC-MAN.
More noteworthy is Mendel Palace, the first game from Game Freak, which saw its North American release in 1990. It is a creative puzzle game where players navigate themed levels by sliding floor tiles to trap enemies against walls. The game features distinct enemy gimmicks and challenging boss fights—one of which can even transform the player character. It is a hidden gem that benefits significantly from the Switch Online rewind feature, especially given the strict timers that can turn enemies into more dangerous variants if you aren't quick enough.
Rounding out the April batch is the 1985 Famicom port of The Tower of Druaga. This arcade action-puzzler tasks players with scaling 60 floors, often requiring specific, esoteric actions to uncover essential items. While the game features a challenging time limit and a particularly brutal penultimate floor, it provides a unique experience for those willing to utilize a guide.
Virtual Boy Curiosities
May 14 saw a significant expansion for the Virtual Boy library. While Virtual Fishing remained a Japanese exclusive, Nintendo added five other titles to the international service. Virtual Bowling, another former Japan-exclusive, offers a clean experience, while Vertical Force provides a top-down shoot 'em up that utilizes the console's 3D depth, though it can be difficult to track enemies against the red-on-red background.
The update also included V-Tetris, which stands out for its "Type C" mode—a version where players manage a cylinder of blocks rather than a flat board. Space Invaders Virtual Collection was also added, though it is largely a straightforward port of the original games with 3D visuals that do little to elevate the experience. For those looking for a highlight, Jack Bros. is the standout; this Shin Megami Tensei spin-off is a fast-paced maze shooter that offers a genuine challenge, even if it does cause a bit of eye strain without dedicated VR hardware.
Rare's Donkey Kong 64 Debuts
The Nintendo 64 library saw a single, long-awaited addition on June 4: Donkey Kong 64. As an expansive collectathon featuring five playable characters, it is a massive title that was previously a notable omission from the service. While the original camera controls can feel clunky, the Switch Online emulator’s button-mapping features offer a helpful workaround for modern players. Whether you are returning for the nostalgia of the Kremlings or exploring the island for the first time, it is a substantial addition to the Expansion Pack library.