Summary
Nintendo is making two classic Game Boy Advance RPGs,Golden SunandGolden Sun: The Lost Age,available on the Switch via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service on Jun 27, 2025. These two fan-favorite titles from the 2000s are the latest additions to the service’s growing treasure trove of nostalgia, following theinclusion of three Nintendo 64 games in December 2023.
TheGolden Sunseries began on the Game Boy Advance all the way back in 2001 and became a hit for many genre fans, especially those who particularly enjoyed JRPGs. However, the franchise hasn’t had an entry sinceGolden Sun: Dark Dawn, which was released for the Nintendo DS in 2010.Golden Sunand its direct sequelGolden Sun: The Lost Ageappearing onNintendo Switch Onlinemarks the first time the titles will be ported over to contemporary platforms, opening them up to a new generation of players.
Nintendo of America made the announcement on its official Twitter account, dropping a release date of January 17 and releasing a short trailer to showcase theGolden Sungames' gameplay to refresh everyone’s memory. Switch fans were happy about this announcement, with some looking forward to playing the critically acclaimed games for the first time. Like many retro ports on Nintendo Switch Online, the games and how they look and sound remain intact from over 20 years ago, with some improvements such as high-definition graphics and smoother FPS rates. The titles should easily translate to the modern platform well, asGolden Sunwas heralded as one of the most beautiful Game Boy Advance gamesof its time.
Golden SunNintendo Switch Online Release Details
While the series had been quiet until this major announcement by Nintendo, there was some buzz about the franchise some years ago when thetrademark forGolden Sunwas renewed in Japanback in 2018. However, fans' excitement for a potential comeback was eventually dashed when no new updates about a contemporary sequel surfaced, and it was assumed that Nintendo simply renewed the trademark to keep owning the IP.
TheGolden Sungames and other old titles being added to online subscription platforms is a welcome way to breathe new life into franchises that are already considered retro classics. Withsubscription services such as Nintendo Switch Online gaining more popularityover individual game releases as time goes on, more deep cuts from the past would increase their value and make them further lucrative, especially among players looking for experiences that are different from today’s mainstream gaming.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid portable and home console that aims to be the only gaming system anyone needs. The hybrid controller is an undisputed success because it provides a high degree of portable visual quality and converts easily into a home console.
