Nintendo, continuing its trend of expanding the library of retro games available on its Switch Online + Expansion Pack service, has treated its subscribers in Japan with the addition of yet another classic title from the Nintendo 64 era—Jet Force Gemini. Renowned for its engaging gameplay and developed by the critically acclaimed Rare studio, Jet Force Gemini is a third-person shooter that originally hit the shelves back in 1999.
In Jet Force Gemini, players embark on a galactic adventure with a trio of heroes: Juno, Vela, and their canine companion Lupus. The game unfolds an interstellar battle against a menacing insectoid army threatening the peace of the galaxy. With its unique combination of exploration, action, and shooting mechanics, the game quickly became a favorite among N64 enthusiasts.
However, this exciting release comes with a caveat—currently, it is exclusively available in Japan. The rest of the world eagerly awaits any news regarding its release in the Western markets, which is scheduled vaguely for "December." Nintendo enthusiasts outside Japan are keeping their fingers crossed, hoping that the title will soon be playable in their respective regions.
The return of Jet Force Gemini is a significant moment for classic game aficionados, as it marks the first time the title has ever been re-released on Nintendo's digital platforms or services. Prior to this, the game had found a new home as part of the Rare Replay collection for the Xbox One, which even updated the game to include dual analog support—a feature that was warmly welcomed by the fans of the classic shooter.
For those in the West who can't wait to revisit or experience for the first time the thrills of Jet Force Gemini, there's a workaround. It requires setting up a Japanese Nintendo account and downloading the Japanese version of the Switch Online N64 application, which also involves accessing a new 18+ rated app. This might feel like a few extra hoops to jump through, but for fans of the game, the effort is often worth the nostalgic rush.
It is interesting to note that alongside Jet Force Gemini, the iconic game GoldenEye 007 was also added to the Japanese N64 release list this week, presenting a delightful duo of classic shooters for the Japanese audience.
Nintendo's decision to restrict certain games to an 18+ app has generated some debate among the community. In the case of GoldenEye 007, the classification seems a bit outdated considering the advancements in game content ratings over the past two decades. Nonetheless, gamers who are of age can download the 18+ app from the Japanese eShop using an adult account, thus bypassing the barrier to these mature titles.
For those unacquainted with the gameplay of Jet Force Gemini, it offers a diverse set of environments to explore and a variety of enemies to defeat. Players switch between characters, each with unique abilities, to progress through the game. The title is known for its interesting blend of platforming, shooting, and puzzle-solving—elements that made it stand out during its original release.
Jet Force Gemini's arrival on Nintendo Switch Online enriches the platform with a piece of gaming history, allowing a new generation of players to enjoy a game that helped define the shooter genre on home consoles. As the gaming community waits for its wider release, the anticipation suggests that the game will be warmly received and will likely resonate with modern players much as it did with those of the past.
It remains to be seen how Nintendo will continue to cultivate its N64 library on the Switch Online service, but for now, Jet Force Gemini serves as a promising indication of the nostalgic and engaging experiences that await.
