Banjo-Kazooie is one of the most iconic platformers to come out of the late-1990s. The original game was met with critical and commercial success, leading developer Rare to create a franchise from the platfomer. Though Banjo-Kazooie didn't always find the same success with its sequels as it did with the original game, long-time fans of the title are still wanting to jump back into the lair of the evil witch Gruntilda, and through Nintendo Switch Online's Expansion Pack, fans will soon be able to replay the original game.
In December 2021 it was announced that Banjo-Kazooie would be making its way onto the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack, which allows subscribers to play N64 and Sega Genesis titles alongside the NES and SNES games that are a part of the original Nintendo Switch Online library. Despite the Banjo-Kazooie franchise being owned by Xbox, Nintendo have been able to bring the N64 title to their online subscription service, inspiring hope for fans that other Xbox-owned titles may arrive to the service at some point in the future.
Banjo-Kazooie was a franchise that many considered to be left as a piece of gaming history, without any new projects being made for the franchise in some years due to factors like changing times and a lack of player interest. Yet, the Nintendo Switch platform has been hailed by many as the place that Banjo-Kazooie could make its return. With the introduction of the famous bird and bear duo in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate earlier in 2019, Nintendo has so far been the place for Banjo-Kazooie content. The original game will be arriving at the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack January 20, meaning there won't be long to wait for fans.
However, with complaints over the price of the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack, many are wondering whether the introduction of Banjo-Kazooie will be worth the price of entry. Nintendo's expansions into its online service has often been met with criticism, and even though introducing new games from the N64 and Sega Genesis creates a lot of hype, that may not be enough to prove the service is a success.
Banjo-Kazooie's introduction to the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack is but one of many popular games being brought to the service. Titles like the original Paper Mario and Starfox 64 have already made their way to the service, and more games will likely be arriving shortly, though whether they'll be able to save the reputation of the Expansion Pack is another matter entirely.
Banjo-Kazooie will be available on January 20 for all Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack owners.