The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →The NES library is included with a standard Nintendo Switch Online membership; it is not a separate collection you need to buy. “Nintendo Classics” is Nintendo’s umbrella branding for classic-game libraries across several systems. The Expansion Pack adds more platform collections, and its GameCube library is playable only on Nintendo Switch 2.
What each Nintendo Switch Online tier includes
| Membership | Classic-game collections documented by Nintendo | Key distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch Online | NES, Super NES, and Game Boy | Access to these classic games lasts while the membership is active. |
| Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack | Standard collections, plus select Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64, Virtual Boy, and SEGA Genesis games | Also includes GameCube – Nintendo Classics on Nintendo Switch 2 only, along with selected DLC and Switch 2 edition upgrade packs. |
These are Nintendo’s US plan and support descriptions; availability and benefits can vary by country and system. See Nintendo’s membership page and Nintendo Support’s classic-game FAQ for current local details.
Where the NES library fits
The NES collection is one part of the standard membership, alongside Super NES and Game Boy. Expansion Pack is an upgrade for players who also want access to its additional platform libraries; it is not required just to play the NES collection.
Nintendo’s November 25, 2025 NES update added Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos and BATTLETOADS, both listed as requiring any Nintendo Switch Online membership. Those are dated examples, not a complete list of what is available now. Nintendo’s official pages reviewed for this comparison do not establish a stable current NES-only game count, so check the live collection in your regional eShop for the current catalog.
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
What “Nintendo Classics” means—and what the title count covers
“Nintendo Classics” refers to Nintendo’s broader set of retro-game collections, not a single NES-only library or membership tier. Nintendo of America described the collections as containing over 270 titles in a June 16, 2026 news post. That is an aggregate across NES, Super NES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Virtual Boy, and selected SEGA Genesis games; it is not the number of NES games.
The count is a dated cross-platform total, not a promise that every listed platform is available on every membership or console. Consult Nintendo’s Nintendo Classics news updates and current plan details for the latest additions and eligibility.
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
Console compatibility: GameCube requires Switch 2
Nintendo states that the GameCube library is playable only on Nintendo Switch 2. Do not assume it is included as a playable collection on the original Nintendo Switch, even with Expansion Pack. Other collection availability can also depend on the system, plan, and country.
Access, renewals, and offline play
Membership access is not individual game ownership
Nintendo describes classic-game access as ongoing for members of the applicable plan while membership remains active. These collections do not function as individual game purchases that remain yours after membership ends. Nintendo’s support FAQ says active members have ongoing access to the NES, Super NES, and Game Boy collections.
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- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
Offline play has a verification condition
Nintendo UK’s support information says members can play offline, but the console must connect to the internet to verify membership at least once every seven days. That is a UK support statement; check your region’s current Nintendo support page for the applicable rule.
Check availability in your country
Nintendo says the service is not available in all countries, and the official information reviewed does not establish that catalogs are identical worldwide. Check your local eShop and Nintendo support pages for the collection, individual games, and plan benefits available to you.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Do you need the NES-style wireless controller?
No. Nintendo identifies a Nintendo Entertainment System wireless controllers 2-pack for Nintendo Switch Online members, but says the accessory is optional and not required to play NES Classics. It is relevant if you prefer an NES-style controller; standard compatible controls are sufficient to access the collection.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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