Pokémon Adds Another Game to the NSO Library

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Joins Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Get ready for another classic Pokémon adventure! Nintendo announced that Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team will be added to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service on August 9th. This beloved Game Boy Advance roguelike title joins the growing library of retro games available to Expansion Pack subscribers.

Embark on a thrilling journey as a Pokémon! Originally released in 2006, Red Rescue Team casts you as a human transformed into a Pokémon, tasked with exploring dungeons and solving the mystery behind your transformation. While a Blue Rescue Team version existed for the Nintendo DS, and a remake (Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX) launched on the Switch in 2020, this is the first time the original GBA version is readily available.

The Call for Mainline Pokémon Games Continues

The addition of Red Rescue Team, while exciting, continues a trend of primarily spin-off Pokémon titles on the NSO Expansion Pack (others include Pokémon Snap and Pokémon Puzzle League). Many fans express disappointment, actively requesting mainline entries like Pokémon Red and Blue. Speculation regarding this absence ranges from N64 Transfer Pak compatibility issues to concerns about Nintendo Switch Online infrastructure and integration with the Pokémon Home app. One fan theory suggests careful consideration of trading mechanics to prevent exploitation.

Nintendo Switch Online Mega Multiplayer Festival: Double the Fun!

To celebrate the new addition and more, Nintendo is hosting a Mega Multiplayer Festival! Resubscribe to a 12-month Nintendo Switch Online membership via the eShop or My Nintendo Store before September 8th and receive two extra months absolutely free. Plus, enjoy bonus Gold Points on game purchases from August 5th to 18th!

The festival also includes free multiplayer game trials (titles to be revealed) from August 19th to 25th, followed by a Mega Multiplayer game sale from August 26th to September 8th, 2024.

Looking Ahead to the Switch 2

With the Switch 2 on the horizon, the future of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack remains to be seen. How will it integrate with the new console? Only time will tell. For more details on the upcoming Switch 2, check out [link to Switch 2 article].