Can You Play Old School Mario Games on Nintendo Switch? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, you absolutely can play old school Mario games on the Nintendo Switch! But, accessing these nostalgic classics isn’t quite as straightforward as popping in an old cartridge. The primary method involves subscribing to Nintendo Switch Online and utilizing the associated classic game libraries. Let’s delve into how this works and explore the options available for reliving those 8-bit and 16-bit Mario adventures.

Understanding Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) is a subscription service that unlocks several features on your Nintendo Switch, including online multiplayer, cloud saves, and, most importantly for our purposes, access to libraries of classic NES, Super NES (SNES), and (with the Expansion Pack) Nintendo 64 games.

How to Access Classic Mario Games via NSO

Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

1. Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online: You can choose between an individual membership or a family membership, depending on your needs. You can subscribe directly through your Nintendo Switch or via the Nintendo website.

2. Download the Classic Game Apps: Once subscribed, navigate to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch. Search for and download the Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Switch Online and the Super Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Switch Online applications. These are free downloads, but you need an active NSO subscription to play the games within them.

3. Launch the Apps and Play: Open the desired app. You’ll be presented with a curated library of games. Look for classic Mario titles like Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, and Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island.

4. The Expansion Pack (N64 Games): If you want to play Super Mario 64, you’ll need to upgrade to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier. This pricier option unlocks a library of Nintendo 64 games, as well as Sega Genesis titles and access to select DLC for certain Switch games.

Available Mario Titles Through NSO

The specific titles available can vary slightly over time, but you can generally expect to find these Mario games within the NSO libraries:

• NES:

  • Super Mario Bros.
  • Super Mario Bros. 2
  • Super Mario Bros. 3
  • Dr. Mario

• SNES:

  • Super Mario World
  • Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
  • Super Mario All-Stars (which includes enhanced versions of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, and Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels)
  • Super Mario Kart

• N64 (Expansion Pack Required):

  • Super Mario 64

Other Avenues for Retro Gaming

Beyond Nintendo Switch Online, there are other ways, albeit less direct or official, to experience classic Mario games on your Switch.

3D All-Stars (Limited Time Release)

In 2020, Nintendo released Super Mario 3D All-Stars, a collection featuring Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy. While the game was a limited-time release and is no longer officially sold by Nintendo, physical copies can still be found through retailers or on the secondhand market.

Emulation (Unofficial)

It’s important to note that emulating games without owning a legitimate copy is generally considered illegal. That being said, the homebrew community has developed emulators that can run on a hacked Switch, allowing users to play ROMs of classic games. This is a complex topic with legal and ethical implications, so it’s essential to be aware of the risks involved. The Games Learning Society (https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/) may offer resources regarding the ethics of gaming.

Why Play Old School Mario Games?

Nostalgia aside, there are compelling reasons to revisit these classics:

• Historical Significance: These games are cornerstones of video game history, offering a glimpse into the evolution of game design.
• Tight Gameplay: Despite their age, the core gameplay mechanics of these Mario titles remain incredibly solid and enjoyable.
• Challenging Level Design: Many of these games offer a significant challenge, testing your platforming skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Artistic Merit: The pixel art and chiptune soundtracks are iconic and continue to inspire developers today. GamesLearningSociety.org can help you in learning more about games and what they offer.

FAQs: Playing Old School Mario on Nintendo Switch

1. Do I need to pay extra to play classic Mario games on Nintendo Switch?

Yes and no. If you subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online, the NES and SNES games are included as part of your membership. However, the Expansion Pack, required for Super Mario 64, is an additional cost.

2. Can I play Super Mario World Wii on Switch?

No, Super Mario World Wii (released as New Super Mario Bros. Wii), is not directly playable on the Switch. The Switch does not have backwards compatibility with Wii games.

3. Are all NES and SNES Mario games available on Nintendo Switch Online?

Not necessarily. The selection of games can change over time. Check the Nintendo eShop to see the current list of available titles.

4. Can I use my old NES or SNES controllers with the Nintendo Switch?

Yes! Nintendo sells wireless versions of the NES and SNES controllers specifically designed for use with Nintendo Switch Online. These offer a more authentic retro gaming experience.

5. Is Nintendo Switch Online worth it just for the Mario games?

That depends on your priorities. If you primarily want to play old school Mario, the cost of NSO might be justified, especially if you enjoy the other benefits like online multiplayer and cloud saves. If you’re only interested in a single title, a physical copy of Super Mario 3D All-Stars (if you can find one) might be a better option.

6. Can I download the classic Mario games to my Switch and play them offline?

Yes, once you’ve downloaded the NES and SNES apps through Nintendo Switch Online, you can play the games within them offline. You will need to connect online periodically for the system to verify your subscription status.

7. What’s the difference between the original Mario games and the versions on Nintendo Switch Online?

The games on Nintendo Switch Online are generally emulated versions of the originals, with some minor enhancements like save states and the ability to rewind gameplay.

8. Can I play two-player mode in the classic Mario games on Nintendo Switch?

Yes! Many of the games support two-player co-op or competitive modes, just like the original releases.

9. Does the Nintendo Switch Lite support classic Mario games through Nintendo Switch Online?

Yes, Nintendo Switch Lite supports all games available through Nintendo Switch Online that are playable in handheld mode, including the classic Mario titles.

10. Will Nintendo ever release standalone versions of the classic Mario games on Switch?

Nintendo’s strategy has generally been to offer these games through the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service. While standalone releases are possible in the future, there are no current announcements.

11. Is Super Mario Run available on Nintendo Switch?

No, Super Mario Run is a mobile game and is not available on Nintendo Switch.

12. Are there any legal ways to play ROMs of old Mario games on Nintendo Switch?

The only fully legal way is through Nintendo Switch Online. Playing ROMs obtained through other means could be illegal and violate copyright laws.

13. What Mario games are NOT compatible with the Nintendo Switch?

Generally, games designed for older consoles (Wii, GameCube, DS, etc.) that haven’t been re-released or made available through Nintendo Switch Online are not directly compatible.

14. Why are some Mario games not available on Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo’s selection of games on Nintendo Switch Online is curated, and they may choose not to include certain titles for various reasons. Licensing issues or strategic decisions could be factors.

15. Are there any fan-made Mario games available for Nintendo Switch?

While there is a vibrant community of Mario fan-game creators, these are not officially supported by Nintendo and generally require a hacked Switch to play. Proceed with caution, as downloading and installing unofficial software can pose security risks.

Conclusion

Reliving the magic of old school Mario games on the Nintendo Switch is readily achievable through Nintendo Switch Online. While other options exist, subscribing to NSO provides a convenient and legal way to enjoy these timeless classics, ensuring that the legacy of Super Mario Bros. continues to thrive on Nintendo’s latest console.