Ridge Racer 64 is available through the Nintendo 64 Classics library on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. It joined the Japanese service on May 16, 2025, and Nintendo UK currently lists it in the N64 Classics catalog. It is not a separately purchased Switch game.
How to play Ridge Racer 64 on Switch
Open the Nintendo 64 Classics collection from the Nintendo Switch Online app and select Ridge Racer 64. Nintendo says access to Nintendo 64 Classics requires a paid Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. The game is provided through that catalog, rather than sold as an individual Switch download. Catalog availability can vary by region and may change over time; Nintendo UK currently includes the game on its Nintendo 64 Classics service page.
When did Ridge Racer 64 arrive on Switch Online?
Nintendo Japan announced that Ridge Racer 64 was added to its Nintendo 64 Nintendo Switch Online catalog on May 16, 2025. The announcement framed the date as the game’s service release in North America and noted that it had not originally been released in Japan. That regional history matters: the May 2025 announcement does not mean the game first launched on Nintendo 64 then. Nintendo UK lists its original UK Nintendo 64 release date as April 7, 2000.
What is in the Nintendo 64 game?
Ridge Racer 64 is a Nintendo 64 racing game from 2000. Nintendo UK credits Nintendo as both its developer and publisher. The game offers solo racing and multiplayer, with drifting central to handling tight turns.
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- Wireless controller fully compatible with Switch 1 / Switch 2 and N64 console
- Lag-Free 2.4 GHz wireless, 10m/33ft range, no delay, plug & play
- Built-in rumble vibration for immersive gameplay. No Extra Rumble Pak Required
- Built-in rechargeable battery, 10-hour runtime
- The 3D analog stick provides nuanced control for precise movements and enhanced gameplay comfort.
Modes and driving
Nintendo Japan describes Grand Prix races against 11 cars, Time Attack, and Car Attack, in which beating a rival earns that rival’s car. Its announcement also highlights acceleration drifting and brake drifting. For multiplayer, it lists three modes and support for up to four players.
Track count: Nintendo’s regional pages differ
Nintendo Japan describes nine courses across three areas, while Nintendo UK’s original-game page lists eight tracks. Nintendo’s pages do not explain the difference, so neither number should be treated as an uncontested universal count.
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Nintendo UK also lists more than 20 cars, four speed classes, and automatic or manual transmission options on its Ridge Racer 64 game page.
Can you play Ridge Racer 64 online with friends?
Nintendo’s game descriptions establish multiplayer for up to four players, but Nintendo’s game descriptions do not specify that those modes support online play. Do not assume that four-player support means you can race friends over the internet; check the service’s current regional game listing for the connection options it offers.
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- 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
Do you need an N64 controller?
No. Nintendo says its N64 controller is optional, not required to play the classics collection. It is designed for Nintendo 64 Classics, but Nintendo does not guarantee compatibility with other Switch games. The controller is wireless, rechargeable over USB-C, and includes built-in rumble, according to Nintendo Support. Availability and price depend on region.
Nintendo UK says controls can be customized. Its service page also says Nintendo Switch 2 includes a rewind feature for the collection. Nintendo cautions that these are reproductions, so performance and presentation can differ from the original releases.
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- ⁂ 【Compatibility】Wireless controller for Original Nintendo 64 system and Switch Console, specially designed for Classic N64 old school Online Games On Switch, including N64 and USB receiver. Compatible with various platforms, support Switch /Switch 2/Switch OLED, Nintendo 64 Console, Windows PC/MAC or Raspberry Pi
- ⁂【Classic Design】ERGONOMIC DESIGN HANDLE, Classic N64 style with "M" shape ,perfectly fit palms, all the buttons and controls make your hand very comfortable for long periods of gaming, enhance your gaming convenience and experience.
- ⁂【Wireless connection】2.4GHz Wireless technology and wireless range up 25 feets,that is better than having to sit on floor a foot away from the TV. Great battery life, built-in 500mah high-performance lithium batteries and only takes 3 hours to charge and can work for up to 15 hours.
- ⁂【Precise joystick and motor shock Vibration 】Precise 3D-high quality analog stick, built-in rumble Pak and memory card port, compatible with most of game memory cards. you can use a memory card and transfer to an SD card.
- ⁂ It is a great choice if you hope to play these classic N64 online games ON switch console. And you can play most of retro N64 games very well, such as Mario Party game,Zelda N64,okémon Snap, Star fox, Smash Bros, Kirby, Glover or any other N64 games in the 90’s. Notice: For Switch, "Pro Controller Wired Communication" must be enabled before pairing. For the PC(USB 2.0 port), you can download the N64 emulator(Such as project 64)
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- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Switch Online access or the original cartridge?
| Option | What you need | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack | A paid membership and access to the Nintendo 64 Classics catalog in your region. | Playing the game on a supported Switch system through the service. |
| Optional Nintendo 64 controller for Switch | The controller is optional; regional availability and price vary. | Players who want the dedicated N64-style controller for Nintendo 64 Classics. |
| Original Nintendo 64 cartridge | An original Nintendo 64 console and physical cartridge. | Collectors or players seeking original physical media; it does not provide access to the Switch Online edition. |
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