Nintendo has dropped four more retro titles onto the Nintendo Switch Online library, spanning both the NES and Game Boy apps. All four games are available now.
The newly added games are Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos, Battletoads, Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters, and the Game Boy take on Bionic Commando — all available now for all Nintendo Switch Online members.
Now, I’ve been away from the world of Switch Online for a while, but I really fancy taking a proper look at Ninja Gaiden 2, which I played fleetingly many years ago… (I mean, I’m not stupid enough to waste my life trying to play Battletoads, although the 8-bit version is coming to Evercade.)
A look at the new additions
Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos (1990, NES)
Ryu Hayabusa returns to take down Ashtar in this fast, flashy sequel. New tricks include wall-climbing, wall-held ninjutsu, and the series-defining Alter Ego shadows that expand your attack range.
Battletoads (1991, NES)
Famous, infamous — take your pick. This brutal but creative action platformer mixes beat-’em-up stages with vertical climbs and high-speed hoverbike chaos across 12 memorably tough levels.
Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters (1991, Game Boy)
A North America–only release until now, Pit’s handheld adventure blends vertical and horizontal exploration with shops, challenge rooms, and classic platforming across three themed worlds.
Bionic Commando (1992, Game Boy)
Rad Spencer swings through enemy fortresses using his signature grappling wire — no jumping allowed. Multiple weapon types and communication rooms add strategy to this portable reboot.
How to play these games on your Nintendo Switch
If you’re new to the service, getting started is simple:
- Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online (individual or family membership).
- Download the free NES and Game Boy apps from the Nintendo eShop.
- Launch the apps, and the newly added titles will appear in the library automatically—no extra purchases required.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
