Nintendo Switch Online Adds First Free N64 Game of 2025

Ridge Racer 64 revs Up Nintendo Switch online Expansion Pack

Nintendo Switch Online subscribers have a reason to celebrate this January. Alongside beloved classics like Perfect Dark and Mario Tennis, the retro game library has expanded to include the high-octane racing excitement of Ridge Racer 64. Available on the Expansion Pack tier, players can now relive this arcade legend on their nintendo Switch.

Released in 2000, Ridge Racer 64 holds a special place in gaming history. Developed by Nintendo, but published under Namco’s license, it marked the series’ groundbreaking debut outside of arcades and PlayStation consoles. This marked a important moment, bringing the exhilarating arcade racing experience to a new audience.

“Race into action with Ridge Racer 64,” Nintendo’s official description teases. “It’s got all the fast-paced arcade action you’ve come to expect from the Ridge racer name. Plus extra features you’ve never seen before! Race with up to four players together on the same screen. Compete on never-before-seen tracks and witness amazing special effects. You’ve never seen a Ridge Racer like this!”

While this welcome addition enriches the Expansion Pack library, remember that access is exclusive to subscribed members. It’s not a free download; it’s more of a temporary rental, available only during your active Nintendo Switch Online subscription.

Stay tuned for more updates on Nintendo Switch Online, including any future additions, news, rumors, and deals.

Ridge Racer 64 Takes the Track on Switch Online; We Chat with a Nintendo Legend

This January, a beloved classic makes its way back to the racing scene. ridge Racer 64 has joined the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack library, delighting retro gamers and introducing a new generation to the thrill of this legendary franchise.

To celebrate this revival,we sat down with Hiroko Tanaka,a dedicated developer who contributed to the game’s creation at Nintendo software Technology.

Hiroto, it’s a pleasure to have you with us. For many fans, Ridge Racer 64 holds a special place in their hearts. What was it like bringing this beloved franchise to the Nintendo 64, a platform outside its usual arcade and PlayStation home?

“There was an amazing sense of excitement and responsibility,” Tanaka shared. “Namco entrusted us with the task of creating something truly special – a Ridge Racer exclusive to the Nintendo 64. Our goal was to capture the essence of the arcade experience while crafting something unique for Nintendo fans.”

Fans cherish Ridge Racer 64 for its breakneck speed and vibrant graphics. What were some of the key challenges in translating that arcade intensity to a home console?

“Balancing speed and control was absolutely crucial,” Tanaka said thoughtfully. “We knew players craved that adrenaline-pumping rush, but we also wanted the game to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We spent a considerable amount of time fine-tuning the handling and designing tracks that offered both stunning visuals and strategic challenges.”

Now, over two decades later, Ridge Racer 64 is being introduced to a whole new generation of gamers through Nintendo Switch Online.

What are your thoughts on seeing this classic racer reach such a wide audience?

“It’s incredibly rewarding,” Tanaka expressed with genuine warmth. “The Ridge Racer series has always been about pushing the boundaries of speed and excitement. It’s truly amazing to think that a game created all those years ago can still deliver that same thrilling experience to players today.”

The Enduring Legacy of Ridge Racer 64

Ridge Racer 64, a title that ignited the need for speed on the Nintendo 64, brought the beloved arcade racing franchise to a new generation of gamers in 2000. But what about the future of this iconic title?

Writer Tanaka playfully hints at the possibility, saying, “We’ll have to leave that in the hands of Namco.”

however, she adds with a knowing smile, “But, seeing the resurgence of interest in classic games, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Ridge Racer 64 legacy continue in some form. After all, the need for speed never fades.”

What are the key design considerations that the developers of Ridge Racer 64 made to ensure a balance between speed and control?

Ridge Racer 64 Takes the Track on Switch Online; We Chat with a Nintendo Legend

This January, a beloved classic makes its way back to the racing scene. ridge Racer 64 has joined the Nintendo switch Online Expansion Pack library, delighting retro gamers and introducing a new generation to the thrill of this legendary franchise.

To celebrate this revival,we sat down with Hiroko Tanaka, a dedicated developer who contributed to the game’s creation at nintendo Software Technology.

Hiroto, it’s a pleasure to have you with us. For many fans, Ridge Racer 64 holds a special place in their hearts. What was it like bringing this beloved franchise to the Nintendo 64, a platform outside its usual arcade and PlayStation home?

“There was an amazing sense of excitement and responsibility,” Tanaka shared. “Namco entrusted us with the task of creating something truly special – a Ridge Racer exclusive to the Nintendo 64. Our goal was to capture the essence of the arcade experience while crafting something unique for Nintendo fans.”

fans cherish Ridge Racer 64 for its breakneck speed and vibrant graphics. What were some of the key challenges in translating that arcade intensity to a home console?

“Balancing speed and control was absolutely crucial,” Tanaka said thoughtfully. “We knew players craved that adrenaline-pumping rush, but we also wanted the game to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We spent a considerable amount of time fine-tuning the handling and designing tracks that offered both stunning visuals and strategic challenges.”

Now, over two decades later, Ridge Racer 64 is being introduced to a whole new generation of gamers through Nintendo Switch Online.

What are your thoughts on seeing this classic racer reach such a wide audience?

“It’s incredibly rewarding,” Tanaka expressed with genuine warmth.”The Ridge Racer series has always been about pushing the boundaries of speed and excitement.It’s truly amazing to think that a game created all those years ago can still deliver that same thrilling experience to players today.”

The Enduring Legacy of Ridge Racer 64

Ridge Racer 64, a title that ignited the need for speed on the Nintendo 64, brought the beloved arcade racing franchise to a new generation of gamers in 2000. But what about the future of this iconic title?

Writng Tanaka playfully hints at the possibility, saying, “We’ll have to leave that in the hands of namco.”

however, she adds with a knowing smile, “But, seeing the resurgence of interest in classic games, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Ridge Racer 64 legacy continue in some form. After all, the need for speed never fades.”