Nintendo Switch Online N64: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! So, you're probably wondering if the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack, with its N64 games, is actually worth your hard-earned cash. Let's dive deep into everything you need to know to make an informed decision. We'll break down the games, the online experience, the value proposition, and ultimately, whether it's a nostalgic trip worth taking.

What do you get with the Nintendo 64 on Switch Online?

Okay, first things first, let’s talk about what you actually get when you sign up for the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. The main draw here is access to a library of classic Nintendo 64 games. We're talking about titles that defined a generation, games that many of us have fond memories of playing back in the day. But it's not just about nostalgia; it's about experiencing these games in a new way, with online multiplayer capabilities added to some titles.

The initial lineup included some heavy hitters like Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Star Fox 64, and Sin and Punishment. Over time, Nintendo has been adding more games to the service, including classics like Banjo-Kazooie, GoldenEye 007, and Pokémon Stadium. The selection is growing, but it’s worth checking the current list to see if your personal favorites are included. After all, there's no point in subscribing if the games you're most excited about aren't available.

Beyond the games themselves, the Expansion Pack also gives you access to online multiplayer for select titles. Imagine racing your friends in Mario Kart 64 or teaming up in Star Fox 64 – it's a blast from the past with a modern twist. The online functionality can be a bit hit-or-miss depending on your internet connection, but when it works, it's a fantastic way to relive those classic gaming moments with friends and family.

The Emulator Experience

The N64 emulation on the Switch has been a bit of a mixed bag, to be honest. Some games run flawlessly, looking and playing just as you remember them (or maybe even better, thanks to the upscaling). However, other titles have suffered from technical issues like input lag, graphical glitches, and audio problems. These issues can definitely detract from the overall experience and make some games less enjoyable than they should be.

Nintendo has released updates to address some of these problems, and the emulation has improved over time. Still, it’s worth doing a bit of research to see how your favorite games perform before you commit to the Expansion Pack. There are plenty of videos and articles online that compare the N64 versions on Switch Online to the original releases, giving you a better idea of what to expect.

How does the online experience work?

So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the online experience. As mentioned earlier, one of the coolest features of the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack is the ability to play select N64 games with friends online. This is a huge step up from the original N64, which, of course, didn't have any online capabilities whatsoever.

To play online, you'll need a stable internet connection and a Nintendo Switch Online membership (in addition to the Expansion Pack). Once you're all set up, you can invite friends to join your game or join theirs. The process is relatively straightforward, but it can sometimes be a bit finicky, especially if you or your friends have less-than-ideal internet connections.

Online Multiplayer Performance

The performance of online multiplayer can vary quite a bit depending on the game and your connection. Some games, like Mario Kart 64, run surprisingly well with minimal lag. Others, however, can suffer from noticeable input delay and dropped connections. It really depends on a variety of factors, including the game's netcode, the distance between players, and the quality of your internet service.

It's also worth noting that not all N64 games on Switch Online support online multiplayer. Some titles are single-player only, which might be a disappointment if you were hoping to play them with friends. Be sure to check the game's description to see if online multiplayer is supported before you get your hopes up.

Communication and Features

The online experience also includes some basic communication features, such as voice chat through the Nintendo Switch Online app. While the app isn't the most user-friendly thing in the world, it does allow you to chat with your friends while you play. However, many players prefer to use other voice chat services like Discord, which offer better audio quality and more features.

Is the Expansion Pack worth the cost?

Alright, the million-dollar question: is the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack actually worth the cost? The answer, as with many things, depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. The Expansion Pack is significantly more expensive than the base Nintendo Switch Online subscription, so you really need to consider whether the extra features are worth the added expense.

Cost Comparison

The standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription gives you access to online multiplayer, a library of classic NES and SNES games, cloud saves, and the Nintendo Switch Online app. The Expansion Pack, on the other hand, includes all of those features plus access to N64 and Sega Genesis games, as well as access to DLC for certain Switch games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

If you're primarily interested in playing online multiplayer and don't care much about the classic games, the standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription is probably the better option. However, if you're a big fan of N64 and Sega Genesis games, and you want to play them online with friends, the Expansion Pack might be worth considering.

Value for Nostalgia

For many people, the value of the Expansion Pack comes down to nostalgia. If you have fond memories of playing N64 games as a kid, and you're excited about the prospect of reliving those memories on your Switch, the Expansion Pack could be a worthwhile investment. However, it's important to keep your expectations in check. The emulation isn't perfect, and some games may not hold up as well as you remember them.

Considering the Game Library

Another important factor to consider is the game library. Take a look at the list of N64 and Sega Genesis games that are currently available on the service, and see if there are enough titles that you're interested in playing to justify the cost. If you only care about a few games, it might be cheaper to buy those games individually if they're available on other platforms.

Alternatives to NSO for Playing N64 Games

Now, before you rush off to subscribe, let's talk about some alternative ways to enjoy those classic N64 games. The Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack isn't the only way to get your retro gaming fix. There are other options to consider, each with its own set of pros and cons.

Original Hardware

First up, we have the classic approach: playing on original hardware. Dust off your old N64, hook it up to your TV, and pop in your favorite cartridges. There's something special about playing these games the way they were originally intended, with the original controllers and on the original hardware. Of course, this option requires you to own the console and the games, which can be a bit pricey if you don't already have them.

Emulation on PC

Another popular option is emulation on your PC. There are many N64 emulators available for free online, and they can offer a surprisingly good experience. You can often upscale the graphics, use custom controllers, and even apply mods to enhance the games. However, setting up an emulator can be a bit technical, and you'll need a decent PC to run the games smoothly.

Standalone N64 Consoles

There are also various standalone N64 consoles available, often referred to as