Surprise! Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones has just been added to the Nintendo Switch Online library. Originally released on the Game Boy Advance in 2004, it didn't reach Western audiences until 2005. The game follows the story of twin heirs, Eirika and Ephraim, as they battle to liberate their kingdom of Renais and unravel the mystery of their former ally's betrayal.
For many, this marks the first chance to experience The Sacred Stones. Released two decades ago, it was only the second Fire Emblem game to be released outside Japan and the last to be developed for the GBA.
We rated Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones highly back in 2005, giving it an 8.5/10. Our review stated: "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 Nintendo Switch gaming experience. Subscribers gain access to online multiplayer features, allowing for competition and cooperation with friends, as well as a rich catalog of classic games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and the upcoming new GameCube libraries. A free seven-day trial is available for new users.
Speaking of new developments, the eagerly awaited Nintendo Switch 2 was originally slated for release on June 5, 2025, with a starting price of $449.99. However, due to delays in the United States following import tariffs imposed by President Trump, the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order date has been rescheduled. Pre-orders will now open 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 via the My Nintendo Store. Invitations to purchase will be distributed 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.
