Killer Instinct Gold Joins Nintendo Switch Online Library

Killer Instinct Gold, a beloved classic from the Nintendo 64 era, has now been added to the expansive Nintendo Switch Online library, much to the delight of retro gaming enthusiasts. This addition brings the iconic arcade fighter Killer Instinct 2 to the Nintendo Switch, joining its predecessor, the original Killer Instinct, in a collection available exclusively to Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack subscribers.

Originally released in 1996, Killer Instinct Gold was crafted by the renowned British studio Rare, which was a key second-party developer for Nintendo during that period. Rare's portfolio at the time included other classics like Donkey Kong Country, Goldeneye 007, and Perfect Dark. In Killer Instinct Gold, players can choose from a roster of 10 formidable fighters and dive into various game modes, featuring "hundreds of thousands of moves and killer Combos at your fingertips."

It's noteworthy that Rare, and thus the Killer Instinct franchise, is now under Microsoft's ownership. This makes Killer Instinct Gold another Xbox Game Studios title available on the Nintendo Switch. Although the franchise saw a revival with the release of the Xbox One launch title in 2013, there has been no indication from Microsoft of plans for a new sequel.

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View 11 ImagesNintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service that enhances the gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch. It offers online multiplayer capabilities, enabling players to connect, compete, and cooperate with friends globally. Subscribers also gain access to a rich catalog of classic Nintendo games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon, the new GameCube libraries with the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. A free seven-day trial is available for those interested in trying the service.

Preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 opened at the end of April, with the console priced at $449.99. The preorders were met with overwhelming demand, as expected. However, Nintendo has advised U.S. customers who preordered through the My Nintendo Store that due to high demand, delivery on the release date is not guaranteed. Despite this, Doug Bowser, President of Nintendo of America, expressed confidence to IGN that the company would have sufficient units to meet consumer demand "through the holidays."