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Killer Instinct Gold Joins Nintendo Switch Online Library

Author:Kristen Update:May 25,2025

The latest addition to the Nintendo Switch Online library is the iconic Nintendo 64 game, Killer Instinct Gold. This title, a port of the arcade hit Killer Instinct 2, now joins its predecessor, Killer Instinct, enhancing the retro gaming experience for Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack subscribers.

Originally released in 1996, Killer Instinct Gold was crafted by the renowned British studio Rare, known for its collaboration with Nintendo during that era. Rare, responsible for classics such as Donkey Kong Country, Goldeneye 007, and Perfect Dark, delivered a fighting game that lets players choose from a roster of 10 fierce fighters. With a variety of game modes and an arsenal of moves and combos, this game offers a thrilling challenge to test your gaming instincts.

It's worth noting that Rare, and thus the Killer Instinct franchise, is now under the ownership of Microsoft. This makes Killer Instinct Gold another Xbox Game Studios title available on the Switch. Since the release of the Xbox One launch title Killer Instinct in 2013, there have been no announcements regarding a new sequel to the series.

Nintendo Switch Online: A Gateway to Gaming History

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that enhances the gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch platform. Subscribers gain access to online multiplayer capabilities, enabling them to compete or collaborate with friends. Additionally, the service offers a rich catalog of classic games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon, the new GameCube libraries with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. For those curious about the service, a free seven-day trial is available.

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Nintendo Switch 2: Preorders and Expectations

Preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 began at the end of April, with the console's price set at $449.99. The demand was as high as anticipated, leading to Nintendo issuing a warning to U.S. customers who preordered from the My Nintendo Store that release date delivery is not guaranteed due to overwhelming demand. However, Doug Bowser, the head of Nintendo of America, expressed confidence to IGN that the company would be able to meet consumer demand through the holiday season.