Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pass Game List: All SEGA Mega Drive Titles Available

Once fierce rivals, Sega and Nintendo buried the hatchet a number of years ago, and have since built a prosperous relationship. It initially started with the release of Sega titles on the Nintendo Gamecube, along with a number of Dreamcast ports. Since then, Sega has released a number of titles across Nintendo’s product lineup, including its 90s mascot Sonic. The latest addition to the ongoing partnership is a selection of Sega Mega Drive titles, which players can download through the Nintendo Switch Online service.

The Sega Mega Drive – which is the first console I owned – released in 1988 in Japan, and went on to be a massive success throughout the 90s. Titles like Sonic The Hedgehog, Streets Of Rage 2 and Revenge Of Shinobi pushed the console into competition with Nintendo. At the time Nintendo was also rocketing to success with the SNES, which paved the way for the console wars. 

Now, we all know how that ended. However, the ongoing partnership between the two titles means that players can sample the best of what Sega had to offer from the comfort of their Nintendo Switch consoles. All you’ll need is a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, and the N64 and Sega Mega Drive Expansion Pass. Oh, and you’ll need a Nintendo Switch of course. Nintendo Switch Online also comes with a classic library of NES and SNES games.

sega mega drive
Credit: Adam Mills/Unsplash.com

A Few Recommendations

The Sega Mega Drive really instilled my passion for gaming, so it should come as no surprise that I have plenty of recommendations. The most obvious recommendation would be Sonic 2. It builds on the first game by expanding level design, upping the ante and introducing the iconic Tails. Sonic is often at it’s best in 2D, and Sonic 2 is the series at its best. 

Streets Of Rage 2 is one of the most iconic titles on the console, and a stellar example of what beat ‘em ups can be. Featuring one of the best soundtracks around, some of the coolest character designs of the 90s and addictive gameplay, Streets Of Rage 2 is one of the best titles available on the Sega Mega Drive. It’s also a great way to introduce yourself before trying the reboot Streets Of Rage 4 Reboot that was released only a few years ago. 

There’s also some other less known titles amongst the lineup that are worth trying out. Gunstar Heroes is a great little game that features gorgeous visuals, a unique weapon mechanic and a fantastic soundtrack. ONe of the lesser known titles on the service, it’s definitely worth trying out. If you’re really into your JRPG titles, I’d also recommend trying out Phantasy Star IV. It was the last entry in the series on the Mega Drive, and features all the trappings of an an exceptional JRPG title.

  • Sonic the Hedgehog 2
  • Streets of Rage 2
  • Ecco the Dolphin
  • Castlevania: Bloodlines
  • Contra: Hard Corps
  • Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine
  • Golden Axe
  • Gunstar Heroes
  • M.U.S.H.A.
  • Phantasy Star IV
  • Ristar
  • Shining Force
  • Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master
  • Strider
  • Altered Beast
  • Dynamite Headdy
  • Sword of Vermilion
  • ToeJam & Earl
  • Thunder Force II

SHOP WITH GAMEBYTE!

Don’t forget, you can find some of these great games and more through the new GameByte Shop! The GameByte Shop is stocked up with the latest games, merch and accessories. We might even have a new-gen console or two! Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of our console drops. Please note the GameByte Shop is available for UK customers only.

[Featured Image Credit: Sega/Nintendo]