Following the addition of GameCube titles to Nintendo Switch Online with the Expansion Pack, speculation has turned to which other classic Nintendo consoles might receive similar treatment. The Wii, with its vast and varied library, stands out as a prime candidate. A dedicated Wii channel on Switch Online could reintroduce a generation of players to some of the system's most memorable titles.
Racing Classics
Among the potential inclusions is Excite Truck, released in 2006. Developed by Monster Games, this arcade-style racer challenged players to navigate diverse environments at high speeds, utilizing nitrous boosts to catch air off hills. It spawned a sequel, Excitebots: Trick Racing, before the franchise seemingly disappeared. A remastered version or inclusion on Switch Online could revive interest in this energetic series.
Strategy and Simulation
Dawn of Discovery, known internationally as Anno: Create a New World, offered an accessible city-building experience on the Wii. Though its PC counterpart, Anno 1404, is a well-regarded classic, the Wii port by Keen Games streamlined elements for a console audience. Despite its simplified approach, the core gameplay loop proved compelling, making it a potential candidate for a modern audience via Switch Online.
Unique Adventures
Little King’s Story, developed by Cing and Town Factory, is a real-time strategy game where players control a young king building his kingdom, battling monsters, and expanding his territory. While a Steam port exists, the title remains underrepresented on consoles, making it a strong contender for the Switch Online library.
The Dog Island, by Yuke’s, presents a charming adventure focused on canine companions. Players choose a dog breed and guide their pet through gentle adventures, scaring away minor threats with barks. Its soothing art style and engaging, age-appropriate challenges make it an overlooked gem worthy of a new audience.
Party and Role-Playing
Fortune Street, the first English release of the Japanese Itadaki Street franchise, blended Nintendo and Dragon Quest characters in a Monopoly-like board game focused on amassing wealth. Its lively presentation and familiar characters made it a unique experience, though it may not have met sales expectations. A return on Switch Online could find a more receptive audience.
The Last Story, an action-RPG from Mistwalker, was one of the JRPGs championed by the fan campaign Operation Rainfall. It garnered critical praise for its innovative combat, music, and story, despite some minor flaws. Its inclusion would honor one of director Hironobu Sakaguchi’s significant works.
Action and Combat
Vanillaware’s Muramasa: The Demon Blade offers a visually stunning action RPG experience with challenging combat. While a remastered version is available on Vita, the original Wii release could gain a new lease on life through Switch Online. A new deluxe version is set for February 2027, potentially increasing interest in the original.
Punch-Out!! for the Wii, released in 2009, served as the last standalone game for Little Mac. It provided a satisfying return to the series' core gameplay, pitting players against a roster of memorable opponents. A re-release would be a welcome opportunity for fans to revisit this boxing classic.
Social and Unique Mechanics
Dokapon Kingdom, a unique blend of RPG and board game elements, was a lengthy and engaging multiplayer experience. Its lighthearted fantasy setting and humorous interactions made it a standout title. A remastered version, Dokapon Kingdom: Connect, already exists on PC and Switch, but its inclusion in the Switch Online library could further broaden its appeal.
Released early in the Wii's lifecycle, Elebits offered a novel first-person perspective gameplay experience. Players searched environments for small creatures called elebits, interacting with the world to find them. Its quiet charm and unique mechanics could easily find a new audience on Switch Online.
