Nintendo has made an exciting announcement that will surely resonate with both long-term fans and new players alike: two of the most beloved role-playing games (RPGs) from the Game Boy Advance era, Golden Sun and Golden Sun: The Lost Age, are set to become part of the Nintendo Switch Online library. The release date is just around the corner on January 17, 2024.
Golden Sun, originally released in 2001, was developed by Camelot Software Planning and published by Nintendo. Noted for its rich storytelling, sophisticated puzzle-solving elements, and strategic turn-based battle system, the game quickly became a hit among RPG enthusiasts. It follows the story of Isaac and his friends as they strive to prevent a dangerous group from unleashing the power of alchemy upon the world of Weyard.
With its sequel, Golden Sun: The Lost Age, which debuted in 2002, players were able to continue the tale with an enhanced gameplay experience and even bigger world to explore. The sequel further delved into the consequences of the previous game's events, placing players in the shoes of new protagonist Felix.
For those unfamiliar with the Switch Online + Expansion Pack service, it is a premium tier of Nintendo’s online subscription offering. It provides access to a growing library of classic games from the Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and now Game Boy Advance, on top of the features available with the standard Switch Online membership. This platform represents an excellent value for nostalgic gamers looking to revisit their childhood favorites, as well as a new generation curious to experience these acclaimed titles.
An active membership will be required to play these games on the Switch. Subscribers to the service will find a treasure trove of games at their fingertips with these new additions. The expansion pack’s curated selection allows for journeys through various gaming eras, offering an impressive compendium of the early 2000s RPG scene with the arrival of Golden Sun and its sequel.
The introduction of these games to the modern console is a testament to Nintendo's commitment to preserving its rich gaming heritage. Both Golden Sun games offer complex narratives, intricate spell systems, and a unique Djinn mechanic that allows players to customize their characters' abilities. Engaging in strategic battles and solving clever environmental puzzles will undoubtedly provide hours of entertainment for subscribers.
Graphics that were once cutting-edge on the Game Boy Advance will be available with updated resolutions for the Switch, ensuring that the experience feels both new and familiar. The timeless art style of the Golden Sun series, which combines vivid 2D backgrounds with character sprites, gives it a classic look that intriguingly complements the hybrid capabilities of the Nintendo Switch.
Here's a glimpse of the magic through a YouTube video showcasing what players can expect:
