NSO N64: Is It Worth It?

Alright gamers, let's dive deep into the world of Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) and its N64 offering. Is it the nostalgic trip we've all been waiting for, or does it fall short of the mark? We're breaking down everything you need to know so you can make an informed decision.

What is Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack?

Before we get into the N64 specifically, let's quickly recap what Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack actually is. Basically, it's a premium tier of Nintendo's online service. You get all the benefits of the standard NSO membership – online play, cloud saves, and access to a library of classic NES and SNES games – but with a few extra bells and whistles. The big draw is access to a selection of Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games, and occasionally some DLC for select Switch titles.

The Expansion Pack definitely adds a nostalgic flavor to the NSO service. For many of us, the Nintendo 64 holds a special place in our hearts. It was a time of groundbreaking 3D graphics, revolutionary gameplay, and some truly unforgettable titles. The promise of reliving those moments on the Switch is incredibly appealing. However, the execution hasn't been without its criticisms. One of the main points of contention has been the emulation quality. Some players have reported issues with input lag, graphical glitches, and audio problems. While Nintendo has been working to address these issues, they can still detract from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the allure of playing classic N64 games on a modern console is hard to resist. The convenience of having these games available on the go, or on your TV with friends, is a major selling point. It's a chance to share the magic of these games with a new generation, or simply relive your own childhood memories. And while the emulation might not be perfect, it's generally good enough to enjoy the games for what they are.

The N64 Game Library: Hits and Misses

Now, let's talk about the N64 games that are actually available through NSO. The selection has grown since the service launched, but it's still a relatively small library. You'll find some of the biggest hitters like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Mario Kart 64. These are all timeless classics that still hold up incredibly well today. The inclusion of these titles alone is enough to justify the Expansion Pack for many players. Ocarina of Time, in particular, is a masterpiece of game design that's worth experiencing again and again.

But the library also has some notable omissions. Where's GoldenEye 007? What about Banjo-Kazooie? And some of the other lesser-known but still beloved titles? The absence of these games is disappointing, and it leaves the N64 library feeling incomplete. Of course, there are licensing issues and other factors that can prevent certain games from being added to the service. But it's still a shame to see so many iconic N64 games missing in action. The quality of the games themselves is generally high, but the limited selection can be a drawback. If you're expecting to find all your favorite N64 games on NSO, you might be disappointed. However, Nintendo has been adding new games to the service on a semi-regular basis, so there's always hope that more classics will be added in the future. In the meantime, the existing library offers a good mix of genres and gameplay styles, from platformers and racing games to RPGs and adventure games. There's something for everyone to enjoy, even if the selection isn't as comprehensive as some might like.

Emulation Quality: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty: the emulation quality of the N64 games on NSO. This has been a major point of contention since the service launched, and for good reason. Emulation can be tricky, and getting these old games to run perfectly on modern hardware is no easy feat. Some games run great, with smooth frame rates and accurate visuals. Others, however, suffer from input lag, graphical glitches, and audio issues. Input lag is a particularly frustrating problem, as it can make precise movements and actions feel sluggish and unresponsive. This can be a major hindrance in games that require quick reflexes, such as Mario Kart 64 or Star Fox 64. Graphical glitches can also be distracting, with textures flickering or disappearing altogether. And audio issues, such as crackling or distorted sound effects, can further detract from the experience. Nintendo has been working to address these issues, and they've released updates that have improved the emulation quality for some games. However, the emulation is still not perfect, and some games still suffer from these problems. It's worth doing some research and reading reviews before diving into a particular game, to see if others have reported any issues. The emulation quality is definitely a mixed bag. Some games run great, while others have noticeable problems. If you're particularly sensitive to these types of issues, you might want to temper your expectations before subscribing to the Expansion Pack. However, if you're willing to overlook some minor flaws, you can still have a lot of fun with these classic games.

The Price Tag: Is it Worth the Cost?

Now for the big question: is the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack worth the cost? This really depends on your individual circumstances and what you're looking for. The Expansion Pack is significantly more expensive than the standard NSO membership. You're paying a premium for access to the N64 and Sega Genesis games, as well as any included DLC. If you're a huge fan of those consoles and you're eager to replay those classic games, then the Expansion Pack might be worth it for you. The ability to play games like Ocarina of Time, Super Mario 64, and Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on your Switch is a definite draw.

However, if you're not particularly interested in N64 or Sega Genesis games, or if you're only planning to play them occasionally, then the Expansion Pack might not be worth the extra money. The standard NSO membership offers plenty of value on its own, with online play, cloud saves, and a library of classic NES and SNES games. Before subscribing to the Expansion Pack, consider how much you'll actually use the N64 and Sega Genesis games. Will you play them regularly, or will they just sit on your Switch collecting virtual dust? Also, factor in the emulation quality issues. If you're particularly sensitive to input lag or graphical glitches, you might want to wait until Nintendo has further improved the emulation before subscribing. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to subscribe to the Expansion Pack is a personal one. There's no right or wrong answer. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, and consider your own gaming habits and preferences. If you're still unsure, you might want to try a free trial of the Expansion Pack to see if it's right for you. The value of the Expansion Pack really comes down to how much you value those N64 and Sega Genesis games.

Alternatives: What are Your Options?

Okay, so maybe the NSO Expansion Pack isn't for you. What other options do you have for playing N64 games? Well, there are a few different routes you can take. First, you could try tracking down an original N64 console and the games you want to play. This can be a fun and nostalgic experience, but it can also be quite expensive. N64 consoles and games can be pricey on the used market, and you'll need to deal with the hassle of hooking up an old console to your modern TV.

Another option is emulation. There are a number of N64 emulators available for PC and other devices. These emulators can run N64 games on your computer, often with improved graphics and performance. However, emulation can be a bit technical, and you'll need to find ROM files for the games you want to play. Be aware that downloading ROMs of games you don't own is illegal, so proceed with caution. Finally, keep an eye out for potential N64 games being re-released on other platforms. Some N64 games have been remastered or re-released on modern consoles, offering a more polished and accessible way to play them. These re-releases often include improved graphics, updated controls, and other enhancements. So, if you're not sold on the NSO Expansion Pack, don't worry. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy those classic N64 games. Whether you choose to go the retro route with an original console, delve into the world of emulation, or wait for potential re-releases, there's a solution out there for everyone.

Final Verdict: Nostalgia or Nuisance?

So, after all this, what's the final verdict on NSO N64? Is it a nostalgic trip worth taking, or a frustrating nuisance to avoid? The answer, as with most things, is somewhere in between. The N64 library on NSO offers a great selection of classic games that are sure to bring back memories for longtime fans. The convenience of playing these games on your Switch is also a major plus. However, the emulation quality issues can be a real drawback, and the limited game selection is disappointing. The price of the Expansion Pack is also a factor to consider. Ultimately, whether or not NSO N64 is worth it depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you're a die-hard N64 fan who's willing to overlook some flaws, then you'll probably enjoy the Expansion Pack. But if you're more sensitive to emulation issues, or if you're not particularly interested in N64 games, then you might want to skip it. Just weigh the pros and cons carefully, and make an informed decision based on your own gaming habits and budget. No matter what you decide, happy gaming!