20-Year-Old Fire Emblem Game Now Available on Nintendo Switch Online

Surprise! Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones has now been added to the Nintendo Switch Online library, giving fans and newcomers alike a chance to dive into this classic. Originally launched on the Game Boy Advance in 2004, it didn't make its way to Western audiences until 2005. The game follows the gripping story of twin heirs to the throne of Renais, Eirika and Ephraim, as they battle to reclaim their kingdom and unravel the mystery of their former ally's betrayal.

For many, this marks the first opportunity to experience The Sacred Stones. Released 20 years ago, it was only the second Fire Emblem title to be released outside Japan and the last to be developed for the GBA.

Back in 2005, we gave Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones a solid 8.5/10, noting that "Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones is to the original Fire Emblem just as Advance Wars 2 was to the original Advance Wars. It's only a letdown in the sense that all this game really offers is an entirely different storyline on top of the pre-existing gameplay built for the GBA Fire Emblem released in 2003."

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service that enhances the gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch. It offers online multiplayer, allowing players to connect with friends, and a rich catalog of classic games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon, the new GameCube libraries with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. A free seven-day trial is available for those interested in trying it out.

Speaking of the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, it was initially set to launch on June 5, 2025, with a starting price of $449.99. However, due to delays caused by import tariffs enacted by President Trump, the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order date has been pushed back. Pre-orders will now begin on April 24, maintaining the same price of $449.99.

You can register your interest with Nintendo to receive notifications about pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 and its accessories through the My Nintendo Store. Invitations to purchase will be sent out via email on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to users who have a 12-month Nintendo Switch Online membership and have logged at least 50 gameplay hours by April 2, 2025.