Nintendo Switch Online May Lineup: Five Retro Classics Join the Collection

Nintendo has once again delved into its storied back catalog to announce the next batch of classic games arriving on the Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscription service this May. Among the five new additions, there is a special treat for Virtual Boy enthusiasts—but only if you own the company's iconic retro headset accessory. To help you understand what's coming and what you need to access it, we've answered the most common questions below.

What are the five new classic games coming to Nintendo Switch Online in May?

Nintendo has confirmed that five more titles from its historical library will be added to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass library this May. While the company hasn't revealed the exact names yet, the lineup is expected to include a mix of beloved NES, SNES, and Game Boy classics, with at least one Virtual Boy game making a surprise appearance. Subscribers can look forward to reliving these retro gems on their modern Switch consoles, complete with save states and online play where supported.

Nintendo Switch Online May Lineup: Five Retro Classics Join the Collection — Source: www.eurogamer.net

Why is this announcement especially exciting for Virtual Boy fans?

For followers of Nintendo's short-lived Virtual Boy system, this update is a notable win. The Virtual Boy game included in the May selection marks a rare modern re-release of a title originally designed for the red-and-black stereoscopic 3D headset. However, there's a catch: to actually play it on Switch, you'll need to use the Virtual Boy Controller accessory (sold separately) that connects to your console. This lets you experience the game as intended, with its distinctive dual-display visuals. It's a niche but welcome addition for collectors and retro enthusiasts.

Do I need a special subscription to play these classic games?

Yes, accessing these five retro titles requires a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscription. The standard Nintendo Switch Online plan does not include the classic game library; you need the higher-tier Expansion Pass. This upgraded membership costs $49.99 per year (individual) or $79.99 per year (family) and also grants access to DLC packs for games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. If you're primarily interested in classic games, the Expansion Pass is the only way to get them.

Can I play the Virtual Boy game without the original headset?

No—and this is where it gets tricky. The Virtual Boy game in the May lineup requires the official Virtual Boy Controller accessory, which mimics the original headset's dual-screen layout. Without it, the game will not function properly on your Switch. Nintendo confirmed that this is due to the game's unique stereoscopic 3D mechanics, which rely on two separate display perspectives. If you don't own the accessory (retailing for around $19.99), you'll be unable to launch the title. This is a distinct limitation that only hardcore Virtual Boy fans might already have.

What other benefits does the Expansion Pass offer besides classic games?

The Expansion Pass is designed as a premium tier that bundles multiple perks. Besides the growing library of retro games (including NES, SNES, Game Boy, and now Virtual Boy titles), subscribers get access to paid DLC for select first-party games. For example, the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass adds 48 extra tracks, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise unlocks home-design expansion content. Members also enjoy exclusive in-game items, save cloud storage, and online multiplayer. It's a comprehensive package for heavy Nintendo users.

When will these five games be available to play?

Nintendo typically rolls out new classic game additions on a monthly cadence, and the May lineup is expected to go live sometime in mid-to-late May 2025. An exact date hasn't been announced yet, but the company often updates the service on a Thursday. Once launched, the five games will be permanently available to all Expansion Pass subscribers as part of the library. You can check the Nintendo eShop or official news channels for the precise release date closer to launch.

How does Nintendo decide which classic games to add each month?

Nintendo hasn't revealed a specific algorithm, but the selection appears to balance nostalgia, popularity, and technical feasibility. Titles are often picked from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, and now Virtual Boy catalogs, with priority given to games that benefit from modern features like save states and rewind. Nintendo also considers fan demand, often adding games that have been requested on social media. The May Virtual Boy inclusion suggests they're slowly tapping into rarer hardware libraries, though availability of licensed games may also factor in.