Japan-Exclusive GBA racer F-Zero Climax hits Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Get ready for high-speed thrills! Nintendo has announced the addition of two classic F-Zero GBA racing games to the Switch Online + Expansion Pack.

F-Zero Climax and F-Zero: GP Legend Zoom onto Switch Online

Available October 11, 2024

Nintendo's futuristic racing franchise, F-Zero, is getting a retro revival. F-Zero: GP Legend and the previously Japan-only F-Zero Climax are joining the Switch Online + Expansion Pack lineup on October 11th. The F-Zero series, known for its intense speed and challenging gameplay, first debuted in Japan over 30 years ago and has been a critical darling, influencing other racing games like SEGA's Daytona USA. The series is celebrated for pushing the boundaries of console technology in its time.

Like Mario Kart, F-Zero features intense races against opponents, navigating obstacles and engaging in thrilling battles with other racers' vehicles – the iconic "F-Zero machines." The series' protagonist, Captain Falcon, is a well-known fighter in the Super Smash Bros. series.

F-Zero: GP Legend originally launched in Japan in 2003, followed by a global release in 2004. F-Zero Climax, released in Japan in 2004, has remained a region exclusive until now. Its arrival marks the end of a nearly two-decade hiatus for the series, following the release of the Switch's F-Zero 99 last year. In an interview, F-Zero designer Takaya Imamura cited Mario Kart's popularity as a contributing factor to the F-Zero series' long dormancy.

This October 2024 update to the Switch Online + Expansion Pack brings both titles to subscribers. Players can compete in various race modes including Grand Prix, story modes, and time trials.

Learn more about Nintendo Switch Online via the link below!