GBA Racing Staple 'F-Zero Climax' Zooms to Switch Online

Get Ready to Race! Two F-Zero GBA Classics Join Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack!

Nintendo has announced the arrival of two classic GBA racing games from the acclaimed F-Zero franchise to the Switch Online + Expansion Pack!

F-Zero Climax and F-Zero: GP Legend Speed Onto Switch Online

Launching October 11, 2024

Nintendo's announcement today confirms the addition of F-Zero: GP Legend and the previously Japan-exclusive F-Zero Climax to the Switch Online + Expansion Pack, available October 11th.

The F-Zero series, Nintendo's futuristic high-octane racing franchise, debuted in Japan over 30 years ago (1990) and quickly gained critical acclaim. Its influence is undeniable, inspiring other racing franchises such as SEGA's Daytona USA. F-Zero consistently pushed the boundaries of gaming technology for its time, renowned for its breakneck speed on SNES and other retro consoles.

Like Nintendo's popular Mario Kart series, F-Zero challenges players to conquer challenging tracks, overcome obstacles, and outmaneuver opponents in intense, machine-to-machine combat using their powerful "F-Zero machines." The series' iconic protagonist, Captain Falcon, also features prominently as a fighter in Super Smash Bros.

F-Zero: GP Legend first launched in Japan in 2003, followed by a global release in 2004. F-Zero Climax, released in Japan in 2004, remained region-locked until now, marking a 19-year wait for international players. This gap, according to F-Zero designer Takaya Imamura in a recent interview, was partly due to the immense popularity of Nintendo's Mario Kart franchise.

This October 2024 update to the Switch Online + Expansion Pack brings both F-Zero Climax and F-Zero: GP Legend to subscribers. Prepare for thrilling competition across various race modes, including Grand Prix, story modes, and time trials.

For more details on Nintendo Switch Online, check out our related article (link below)!