New NES and Game Boy Games Join Nintendo Switch Online Collection

On December 11, Nintendo treated its subscribers with a nostalgia trip, releasing Tetris and Tetris DX on the NES and Game Boy Nintendo Switch Online apps. Alexey Pajitnov, the mastermind behind Tetris, shared a touching video message, expressing his gratitude to fans for sticking with the franchise through the years.

Back in 1985, Tetris made its debut on IBM computers in the Soviet Union. Just a few years later, in 1988, the game went global, enthralling players on PCs and in arcades. Come 1989, Nintendo showcased their versions on the NES and Game Boy, following some legal wrangling with Atari Games. Despite countless versions across platforms over time, the NES iteration from 1989 has earned a legendary status, thanks to its exhilarating pace. Fast forward to late 2023, and young phenomenon Blue Scuti, aged just 13, set a new milestone by reaching level 157 and unlocking the game’s “Kill screen,” a historic moment for Tetris aficionados.

Nintendo Switch Online subscribers now have the chance to dive into these timeless classics. Highlighting its enduring legacy, the 1989 NES Tetris makes its comeback on the NSO service after 35 long years, while Tetris DX, the game’s vibrant Game Boy Color sibling from 1998, also joins the lineup. This re-release marks a special occasion, as Pajitnov mentioned, celebrating Tetris’ 40-year journey since its creation. Notably, Tetris DX introduces a two-player mode, adding a competitive twist where each player must have their own NSO subscription.

With Tetris back in action, the NSO service reminds us why it stands as a favorite platform for retro enthusiasts. To indulge in these classic experiences, subscribers should ensure their NES and Game Boy apps are up-to-date and internet-connected. These Tetris releases coincide with a slew of other nostalgic arrivals, such as the Donkey Kong Land trilogy, on the Game Boy NSO app in November.

The inclusion of these iconic Tetris titles strengthens Nintendo Switch Online’s position as a prime destination for reliving gaming history. Whether this momentum continues as we look ahead to potential future consoles remains to be seen, but for now, it’s an exciting time to be a retro gaming fan.