Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Joins Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Get ready for another classic Pokémon adventure! Nintendo announced that Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team will be available on the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service starting August 9th. This beloved roguelike title joins the growing library of retro games accessible through the Expansion Pack, which also includes Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis titles.

Originally released on the Game Boy Advance in 2006, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team puts players in the paws (or fins, or wings!) of a human transformed into a Pokémon. Explore randomly generated dungeons, embark on exciting missions, and uncover the mystery behind your transformation. While a Blue Rescue Team version existed for the Nintendo DS, and a remake, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX, launched on the Switch in 2020, this GBA version offers a unique retro experience.

Mainline Pokémon Games Still Sought After

The Expansion Pack's addition of Red Rescue Team continues the trend of adding classic Pokémon spin-offs. However, many fans continue to express their desire for mainline Pokémon games, such as Pokémon Red and Blue, to be included. Speculation on why these haven't appeared yet ranges from potential N64 Transfer Pak compatibility issues to concerns about Nintendo Switch Online's infrastructure and its integration with the Pokémon Home app. The latter, not wholly owned by Nintendo, may present contractual complexities.

Nintendo Switch Online Mega Multiplayer Festival

Beyond the PMD announcement, Nintendo also revealed a special offer for Nintendo Switch Online resubscribers. As part of the Mega Multiplayer Festival (running until September 8th), purchasing a 12-month membership from the eShop or My Nintendo Store will reward you with an additional two free months! Further bonuses include extra Gold Points on game purchases (August 5th-18th) and free multiplayer game trials (August 19th-25th; titles to be announced later). A Mega Multiplayer game sale will follow from August 26th to September 8th, 2024.

Looking Ahead to the Switch 2

With the Switch 2 on the horizon, the future of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack remains uncertain. How the service will integrate with the new console is yet to be seen. For more information about the upcoming Switch 2, check out [link to Switch 2 article].