Nintendo added Golden Axe II, Alien Storm, Columns and Virtua Fighter 2 to the SEGA Genesis – Nintendo Switch Online library on December 15, 2022. The update is historical, not a new October 2026 release; Nintendo’s U.S. catalog still lists all four games as of October 8, 2026.
Which SEGA Genesis games were added with Golden Axe II?
Nintendo of America announced the four-game update on December 15, 2022, saying the titles were “playable right now.” The additions were:
- Golden Axe II
- Alien Storm
- Columns
- Virtua Fighter 2
Nintendo’s current U.S. catalog continues to list the four titles in its SEGA Genesis collection. Nintendo of America’s announcement documents the original update; the Nintendo catalog reflects its current listing.
What membership do you need to play them?
The SEGA Genesis collection is included with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Nintendo says access to Expansion Pack libraries requires an active membership. The classic games are not sold individually through this service.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →#1 Best Overall
- The iconic SEGA Genesis console that defined a generation of gaming returns in a slick, miniaturized unit.
- The SEGA Genesis Mini console is loaded with 42 legendary games and is plug and play ready right out of the box!
- Box contents: Sega Genesis Mini console and 2 wired controllers, 40 games + 2 bonus games, power cable and USB adapter, and HDMI cable.
Members can play the games offline, but Nintendo requires an online membership check at least once every seven days. Nintendo also says Expansion Pack membership download codes may be available through select retailers; current stock and availability vary.
What features and multiplayer options are available?
Nintendo’s catalog lists rewind and save-state features for the collection. Online play depends on what the original game supports: games with multiplayer can support online competitive or cooperative play, while friends can take turns or watch when a game is single-player. The service does not make every title multiplayer.
Rank #2
- The iconic SEGA Genesis console that defined a generation of gaming returns in a slick, miniaturized unit.
- The SEGA Genesis Mini console is loaded with 42 legendary games and is plug and play ready right out of the box!
- Box contents: Sega Genesis Mini console and 2 wired controllers, 40 games + 2 bonus games, power cable and USB adapter, and HDMI cable.
Do you need a SEGA Genesis-style controller?
No. Nintendo offers an optional, full-size SEGA Genesis-style Control Pad, but says it is not required to play the Genesis library. The standard Switch controls remain an option; the pad is for players who prefer a controller styled after the original hardware.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Does this update predict the next Genesis release?
No. Nintendo does not publish a fixed schedule for future classic-game additions, so the December 2022 update does not establish when another SEGA Genesis game will arrive.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Includes 80 16-bit Games
- Two User Friendly Wireless Controllers
- SEGA Genesis Greatest Hits Included: Beloved Sonic the Hedgehog Series
- Features Virtua Fighter 2 and Streets of Rage 1-3
- Compatible with SEGA Genesis Cartridges
Rank #3
- Genesis Classic Console by AtGames
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.
