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Can You Play Nintendo 64 Games on Nintendo Switch?

Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 offer a changing selection of N64 games through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Here’s how to access them and which controllers work.
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Yes. You can play a selection of Nintendo 64 games on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 through Nintendo 64 – Nintendo Classics, included with an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. You do not need an N64-style controller: compatible Joy-Con and Pro Controllers work too.

How do you play N64 games on Switch?

  1. Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The standard Nintendo Switch Online tier does not include the N64 collection.
  2. Open the Nintendo Switch Online area on your console, download and launch Nintendo 64 – Nintendo Classics.
  3. Choose a game from the available library. Nintendo describes these as reproductions of original N64 games, not original cartridges running on the console.

Nintendo’s listing gives the software a file size of 1.9 GB on both Switch and Switch 2. Treat that figure as subject to change: Nintendo notes that storage needs increase as games are added. Check Nintendo’s current listing for the latest details.

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Which membership includes the N64 library?

You need Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The prices below are those displayed on Nintendo’s US page, accessed in 2026; prices, terms and availability vary by region and may change.

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US membership Annual price Accounts covered
Individual Expansion Pack $49.99 per year 1 Nintendo Account
Family Expansion Pack $79.99 per year Up to 8 Nintendo Accounts

Nintendo says memberships renew automatically after the initial term at the then-current price unless canceled. Review the Nintendo Switch Online page for the current offer in your region and the renewal terms before subscribing.

#1 Best Overall
miadore 4 Pack Classic 64 Controller, Wired N64 Controllers with Upgraded Joystick (Non PC USB Version) (Black/Clear Green/Clear Blue/Clear Orange)
  • It features ten buttons, one analog "Control Stick" and a 8-way directional pad, all laid out in an "M" shape.
  • Compatible with 64. Perfect controller for Mario Kart, Perfect Dark, and many other classic 64 games.
  • Rumble Pak & Memory Card Feature. Provides force feedback while playing video games. Enhances the gaming experience. Note: This controller doesn’t contain Memory Card and Rumble Pak in package, need to purchase separately.
  • Color: Black, Grey, Blue, Red, Yellow, Transparent Orange, Transparent Blue, Transparent Green, Transparent Red; Cord Length: Approx. 6 ft.
  • Third-party Product, not original 64 controller, but no difference in quality from the original controllers!

Which N64 games can you play?

The collection is a changing selection, not the complete N64 catalog. Nintendo’s current listing includes titles such as Mario Kart 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Star Fox 64, Paper Mario, Super Mario 64, Dr. Mario 64, Yoshi’s Story, GoldenEye 007 and Sin & Punishment. Nintendo says more games are on the way; consult its N64 collection listing to see what is currently available.

Do you need an N64 controller?

No. Nintendo lists Joy-Con, Joy-Con 2, Switch Pro Controller, Switch 2 Pro Controller and the Nintendo 64 Controller as compatible options. The N64-style controller is an optional accessory for players who prefer the original-style layout. Nintendo explicitly says it is not required for the collection. Its support information says the controller is designed for the N64 collection; use with other games may work, but Nintendo does not guarantee every option or feature in those games. See Nintendo’s N64 Controller details and controller setup guidance.

Rank #2
Hyperkin "Captain" Premium Controller for N64 (Turquoise) - Nintendo 64
  • Compatible with all N64 models
  • 10 ft. Cable
  • Ergonomic, Premium build
  • Analog Joysticks

Switch Lite users should account for the system’s handheld-only form factor. Nintendo’s support page explains that the N64 Controller pairs wirelessly with Switch Lite; check the setup guidance for current pairing details.

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What changes on Switch 2?

Nintendo lists the collection as supported on Switch 2 and says game behavior is consistent with Nintendo Switch under its compatibility notice. Its software page identifies CRT filter and rewind as features exclusive to Switch 2. Nintendo also cautions that performance and presentation can differ from the original N64 versions, so the collection should not be assumed to reproduce the original hardware experience exactly.

Best Value
Classic 64 Wired Controller Joystick for N64 Game System N64 Console (2Packs, Red and Blue)
  • The controller for N64 have 10 function buttons (Included Left and Right shoulder buttons and Z-trigger), an analog stick/thumb joystick. Shaped like "M", with improved ergonomic technology design,designed to please your hand with a comfortable feeling when holding it.
  • Want to play classic games with your kids, but you don't want to destroy the expensive original N64 controller, our controller can perfectly replace the N64 controller. It can also be used as a multiplayer game controller, you need a spare controller to play games with friends.
  • The controller's line length is 5.8 feet, which can save you from having to be so close to the screen, better protect your eyes, and is suitable for people of all ages, enjoy the classic games easier.
  • Rumble Pak & Memory Card Feature. Provides force feedback while playing video games. Enhances the gaming experience. Note: This controller doesn’t contain Memory Card and Rumble Pak in package, need to purchase separately.
  • Third-party Product. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Please believe that we will put the customer experience first. We will provide you with the best solution.
Rank #4
KIWITATA 2xClassic N64 Controller, Retro N64 Remote Wired Game Joystick Replacement Controller for N64 Console N 64 System Black+Gray
  • ⚡【Compatibility】2 Pack wired controller fully compatible with N64 system console, perfect for Mario Kart 64, The Legend of Zelda,Perfect Dark, Super Mario 64,ocarina of time 64,Super smash, Ocarina of Time and many other classic N64 retro games.
  • ⚡CLASSIC DESIGN: Tight and accurate analog control, the controller features 10 function buttons (including Left and Right shoulder functions and Z-trigger). This is a great replacement for any old original N64 controller you have.
  • ⚡Rumble Pak & Memory Card Feature: Compatible with most of game memory cards. you can use a memory card and transfer to an SD card. Not support Transfer Pak function.
  • ⚡COMFORTABLE GRIP: Ergonomic handle design fits naturally in your hands during extended gaming sessions. The cord is approx 6ft. Use a N64 Controller Extension Cord Cables,you can play across the room.
  • ⚡Third party controller, not original N64 controller.The best alternative wired controller for N64 games, that will bring back those childhood memories when you are playing classic games.
Rank #3
Wired Classic N64 Controller Joystick Remote for Original N64 Console Gray
  • 🎮[Compatible ]Compatible with the original N64 system console, wired controller for enjoying old school Online N64 video games, perfectly for Mario Kart 64, Zelda n64, Mario party, Perfect Dark, Super Mario 64, ocarina of time 64,Super Smash Bros and many other N64 games.(Not for Windows PC Games)
  • 🎮[Ergonomic Design]Tight and accurate analog control, the controller features 10 function buttons (including Left and Right shoulder functions and Z-trigger). Based on ergonomic and designed to fit your hands nicely, easier to grip than other controllers. It is a great replacement for old original N64 controller you have.
  • 🎮[Rumble Pak & Memory Card ]: Compatible with most of game memory cards. you can use a memory card and transfer the game memory card save data. Upgraded 3D analog control stick commands your action with precision, perfectly compatible with N64 System console.
  • 🎮[N64 Wired connection]The cord is approx. 1.7 meters (6ft), including a push-on N64 connector and easy to use. Use a N64 Controller Extension Cord Cables, you can play across the room. The joystick is removeable and replaceable.
  • 🎮Third party controller, not original N64 controller(non-USB edition). The best gift for your families or friends, that will bring back those childhood memories when you are playing these classic N64 games.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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