Get ready to experience the thrill of high-speed futuristic racing! Nintendo has announced the addition of two classic F-Zero GBA games to the Switch Online + Expansion Pack.

F-Zero Climax and F-Zero: GP Legend Arrive on Switch Online

Available October 11, 2024

Prepare for takeoff! Classic Game Boy Advance racing titles, F-Zero: GP Legend and the previously Japan-exclusive F-Zero Climax, are zooming onto the Switch Online + Expansion Pack on October 11th.

The F-Zero series, Nintendo's iconic futuristic racing franchise, first blasted onto the scene in Japan over 30 years ago (1990). A critical success, F-Zero pushed the boundaries of gaming technology, earning its reputation as one of the fastest racing games on retro consoles like the SNES. Its influence is undeniable, inspiring other racing franchises such as SEGA's Daytona USA.

Like Nintendo's Mario Kart series, F-Zero challenges players to reach the finish line first, navigating treacherous tracks and battling opponents in their powerful "F-Zero machines." The series' charismatic protagonist, Captain Falcon, even makes appearances as a fighter in Super Smash Bros.

F-Zero: GP Legend first launched in Japan in 2003, followed by a worldwide release in 2004. F-Zero Climax, released in Japan in 2004, remained a region-exclusive title until now—a 19-year wait! This release marks a significant event, especially considering F-Zero Climax was the last entry in the series before the release of the Switch's racing MMO title, F-Zero 99, last year. In an interview, F-Zero game designer Takaya Imamura cited Mario Kart's popularity as a contributing factor to the F-Zero series' extended hiatus.

As part of the October 2024 Game Update for the Switch Online + Expansion Pack, subscribers will gain access to both F-Zero Climax and F-Zero: GP Legend, allowing them to compete in various race modes including Grand Prix, story modes, and time-based challenges.

For more information on Nintendo Switch Online, check out our article [link to article].