### Nintendo Switch Online Expands Its GameCube Classics with Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance Nintendo has made a significant addition to its Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service by introducing the beloved GameCube title, *Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance*. Originally released in 2005, this strategy RPG is now accessible to subscribers, allowing both new players and long-time fans to experience one of the most acclaimed entries in the *Fire Emblem* series. The game is notable for being the first 3D installment in the franchise and has garnered a reputation for its engaging gameplay and rich storytelling. This release not only revives a classic but also enhances its availability with modern features for the Nintendo Switch 2 platform [https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/fire-emblem-path-of-radiance-switch-online-switch-2]. ### Overview of the Release and Its Features 1. **Game Availability**: - *Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance* is now available exclusively to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers [https://www.theverge.com/news/859192/fire-emblem-path-of-radiance-is-now-available-to-play-on-switch-2]. 2. **Historical Context**: - The game was originally released on the GameCube in 2005 and is considered one of the best titles in the *Fire Emblem* series, particularly praised for its strategic depth and character development [https://www.gamespot.com/articles/fire-emblem-path-of-radiance-joins-switch-online-gamecube-classics-library/1100-6537292]. 3. **Modern Enhancements**: - The Switch version includes modern features that enhance gameplay, making it more accessible to a new generation of players while retaining the charm of the original [https://tech.yahoo.com/gaming/articles/fire-emblem-path-radiance-now-161459766.html]. 4. **Community Impact**: - The addition of this title brings the total number of GameCube classics available on the Switch Online service to eight, reflecting Nintendo's commitment to expanding its retro game library [https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-switch-2s-latest-gamecube-game-is-now-live-bringing-the-total-to-8-games]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Game Release Date**: January 9, 2026, marked the official launch of *Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance* on the Nintendo Switch Online platform [https://www.nintendo-insider.com/fire-emblem-path-of-radiance-out-now-on-nintendo-gamecube-nintendo-classics]. - **Subscription Requirement**: Access to the game requires a subscription to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, which is the highest tier of the service [https://www.nintendojo.com/news/nintendo-switch-online-expands-with-fire-emblem-path-of-radiance]. - **Cultural Significance**: The game is often cited as a watershed moment for the *Fire Emblem* series in the West, helping to popularize tactical RPGs among a broader audience [https://techraptor.net/gaming/news/gamecube-fire-emblem-path-of-radiance-switch-online]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for Fire Emblem Fans In summary, the addition of *Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance* to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is a noteworthy event for both fans of the series and newcomers alike. 1. **Accessibility**: The game is now easily accessible to a wider audience, eliminating the need for expensive second-hand copies [https://tech.yahoo.com/gaming/articles/forget-paying-over-200-one-105829600.html]. 2. **Enhanced Experience**: With modern enhancements, players can enjoy the classic title with improved features that cater to contemporary gaming standards [https://www.gamereactor.eu/nintendo-switch-2-just-got-the-very-first-3d-fire-emblem-1658333]. 3. **Community Engagement**: This release is likely to foster renewed interest in the *Fire Emblem* franchise, encouraging discussions and community engagement around the game [https://nintendowire.com/news/2026/01/09/fire-emblem-path-of-radiance-shadow-drops-on-switch-online-for-switch-2-users]. Overall, this strategic move by Nintendo not only celebrates a classic title but also reinforces the company's dedication to preserving and promoting its gaming heritage [https://bleedingcool.com/games/fire-emblem-path-of-radiance-added-to-nintendo-switch-online].