Nintendo adds more NES games to Switch Online lineup

Nintendo Switch Online subscribers have access to three more NES games as part of their subscription: NES Open Tournament Golf, Solomon’s Key and Super Dodge Ball. That trio of classic games joins the 20-game lineup that launched in September.

Perhaps more interesting than the addition of three additional NES games is an unexpected release of “special save data” for The Legend of Zelda, a game that was part of the Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Switch Online launch lineup. That save data will let players “start their adventure with a ton of rupees and items, including the White Sword, Magical Shield, Blue Ring and Power Bracelet.” Basically, that save file will make The Legend of Zelda a much easier game to start playing for newcomers.

In a press release, Nintendo promised to release more special save data for other NES titles, “offering fun new entry points into fan-favorite games.”

If you’re unfamiliar with the NES games that Nintendo released for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers today, here are official descriptions of those titles:

NES Open Tournament Golf – Challenge another player in Stroke, Match and Tournament modes on three fantasy courses in the USA, the UK and Japan. Make sure you keep an eye on the wind and distance to the hole before selecting your club, or else you’ll be racking up some high scores … which is exactly what you don’t want to do in this game.

Solomon’s Key – As Dana, a skilled and talented hero, you must strategically maneuver through over 40 stages using mysterious block-creation skills and other magical powers. Free the captive Fairy in each stage by finding the Bell, and escape by grabbing the Magic Key. Use quick thinking and magical firepower to discover hidden items and evade numerous enemies as you race against the clock.

Super Dodge Ball – In Super Dodge Ball, you take control of the USA Dodge Ball team and travel the world in an effort to become the best dodge ballers around. Step onto playing fields in countries all over the globe and use a combination of normal and super shots to help take down your opponents. But be careful, as some destinations have surfaces that can affect your footing.

Nintendo Switch Online launched on Sept. 18 and offers access to online connectivity features, including cooperative and competitive multiplayer, for Switch games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 2 and Mario Tennis Aces. A 12-month subscription for Nintendo Switch Online costs $19.99.