Ethan Crossfield 
Nintendo Switch Online subscribers have three more NES games to try: Ninja Gaiden 3: The Ancient Ship of Doom, Ikari Warriors, and R.C. Pro-Am 2. The update gives the service a fast action platformer, a military shooter, and a competitive racing game, making it a useful addition for players exploring Nintendo’s older libraries. Anyone unsure about subscribing can use the available seven-day Nintendo Switch Online trial before deciding whether the retro selection is worth the cost.
What changed in the NES library
The latest Nintendo Switch Online update adds all three games to the service’s NES collection. Ninja Gaiden 3: The Ancient Ship of Doom is the headline release and the third and final NES installment in the classic Ninja Gaiden series. It puts players back in control of Ryu Hayabusa, the last member of the Dragon Clan, as he fights enemies while investigating the circumstances surrounding Irene’s death. Its appeal is rooted in the series’ demanding, quick-moving action-platforming design.
Ikari Warriors provides a different kind of challenge. The 1987 NES shooter follows Paul and Vince as they attack an enemy base. Ammunition is limited, so players must gather supplies from defeated opponents and use available power-ups. Tanks and helicopters add more options when pushing through enemy forces.
Who should check out these games
The selection covers several different retro play styles. Ninja Gaiden 3 is the clearest choice for players looking for character-based combat and platforming. Ikari Warriors suits those who prefer a more direct shooter built around resource management and battlefield advancement.
R.C. Pro-Am II is the most multiplayer-focused addition. The 1992 sequel includes 24 tracks, races against computer-controlled cars, and support for two players competing together. Courses contain items that can improve a vehicle’s performance, but obstacles can quickly disrupt a run. Winnings can be spent at the R.C. Model Shop on parts and other upgrades, giving races a progression layer beyond simply finishing first.
What to expect before subscribing
R.C. Pro-Am II also expands its racing package with the Tug O’ Truck Challenge and The Drag Race. These modes award extra cash prizes and championship points, giving players additional reasons to return after completing the standard events.
All three games are available to Nintendo Switch Online members through the NES library. A standard membership costs $19.99 per year, while the Expansion Pack tier costs $49.99 per year. The source material does not specify that either tier is required for these particular NES games, so prospective players should verify the access terms on Nintendo’s service page. The seven-day trial is the lowest-commitment way to sample the additions.
What players should know
- The update adds Ninja Gaiden 3: The Ancient Ship of Doom, Ikari Warriors, and R.C. Pro-Am 2.
- Ninja Gaiden 3 is the final NES entry in the classic Ninja Gaiden series.
- Ikari Warriors emphasizes limited ammunition, supplies, power-ups, tanks, and helicopters.
- R.C. Pro-Am II includes 24 tracks and supports races for up to two players.
- A seven-day Nintendo Switch Online trial is available for players who want to test the service.
Expert View
This is a varied but modest update rather than a single must-play release. Ninja Gaiden 3 offers the strongest draw for action fans, while Ikari Warriors and R.C. Pro-Am II broaden the NES library with different genres and multiplayer potential. The trial makes sampling the games relatively straightforward, but players mainly interested in newer Nintendo 64 or GameCube additions may still be waiting for a more substantial reason to subscribe.
