Nintendo has expanded its retro gaming catalogue on Nintendo Switch Online with four classic handheld titles, including a fan-favorite Mario spin-off. The update, released on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, adds three Game Boy games and one Game Boy Advance title to the service.
Wario Land Leads the Lineup
The most anticipated addition is Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3, a 1994 platformer where players control Wario instead of Mario. Regarded by some as “one of the best Game Boy games” made, according to social media reactions, the game has generated excitement among subscribers. Reddit users expressed their joy, with one calling it a “fantastic game” and another writing: “That’s one of the most iconic GB games.” A third user noted: “Wario Land is definitely one of the best GB games. It plays differently from the rest of the Wario Land series; much more like a Mario game with its own twist (it is Super Mario Land 3, after all).”
Other Game Boy Additions
The other two Game Boy titles are the 1991 action shooter Fortified Zone and the 1992 role-playing game The Sword of Hope II. While some fans expressed disappointment, one Reddit user recommended the latter: “I do recommend the Sword of Hope and its sequel. Surprisingly good RPGs.” Another added: “Fortified Zone is a solid 6 or 7/10 game with a 11/10 soundtrack.”
Expansion Pack Exclusive
The fourth addition, Dr Mario and Puzzle League, is a two-in-one Game Boy Advance title available only to Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack subscribers. This tier costs an additional fee beyond the standard membership.
Membership Required
All retro games are accessible through the Nintendo Switch Online app, which requires an active subscription. The standard membership provides access to the Game Boy library, while the Expansion Pack unlocks Game Boy Advance and other premium titles.
