Artwork depicting the Sega Genesis console alongside a Nintendo Switch Online logo

Nintendo Switch Online Gets New Genesis Games

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Published: December 17, 2021 8:48 AM

A batch of new Nintendo Switch Online Genesis games have been added. Five new games for the console (also called the Mega Drive in other territories) are available to download now if you're signed up for the Expansion Pack service.

What new Nintendo Switch Online Genesis games have been added?

After N64 classic Paper Mario was added to the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack service earlier this month, there are now five classic Sega Genesis games to enjoy as well. There's a solid mixture of 80s metal side-scrolling, wigged-out psychedelic exploration, and platforming to be had. Here are all the new Sega Genesis games that have been added to the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack.


Altered Beast

Altered Beast, one of the new Nintendo Switch Online Genesis games

"Rise from your grave." So goes the opening of Altered Beast, a side-scroller in which you'll have to transform into a beast in order to rescue Zeus's daughter Athena from the demon Neff.

ToeJam & Earl

Inspired by 80s and 90s pop culture and funk music, ToeJam & Earl is a free-spirited adventure game in which you control the titular alien rap crew as they crash-land on Earth. You'll need to collect pieces of your spacecraft to escape.

Dynamite Headdy

Dynamite Headdy, one of the new Nintendo Switch Online Genesis games

This characteristically offbeat platformer sees the titular puppet Headdy tossing his head at enemies, as well as using it as a device to solve puzzles and traverse his environment.

Sword of Vermilion

If you like action RPG gameplay and classic fantasy aesthetics, you'll love Sword of Vermilion. You must defeat the evil King Tsarkon by amassing XP from enemies, finding new gear, and taking down powerful bosses.

Thunder Force II

Thunder Force II, one of the new Nintendo Switch Online Genesis games

Finally, you're getting scrolling shooter Thunder Force II in this new Nintendo Switch Online Genesis drop. This innovative title mixes side-scrolling shooting and overhead blasting for a compelling blend of laser-focused action.


These titles join those already added to the service, including Castlevania BloodlinesSonic the Hedgehog 2, and Ecco the Dolphin. You can only play Genesis games - as well as the N64 lineup on Nintendo Switch Online - if you grab the Expansion Pack, which costs $49.99 and includes full 12-month membership of the base Nintendo Switch Online service as well. You'll also get access to the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise DLC if you sign up for the Expansion Pack. With more N64 games on the way to Nintendo Switch Online, now is probably a pretty good time to get yourself signed up. 

Will you be checking out these new Nintendo Switch Online Genesis games? Let us know in the comments below!


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Joe has been writing for TechRaptor for several years, and in those years has learned a lot about the gaming industry and its foibles. He’s originally an… More about Joseph