Nintendo has officially announced that Wario Land 4 will be the latest classic title added to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service. Originally released in 2001 for the Game Boy Advance, this beloved platformer will be available for subscribers starting February 14, 2025.

A Long-Awaited Classic Returns

Fans of the Wario Land series have been waiting years for a revival of the franchise, and while this isn’t a brand-new entry, it’s still exciting news for those who want to experience—or revisit—one of the best Game Boy Advance platformers. With its colorful visuals, quirky mechanics, and fun transformation-based gameplay, Wario Land 4 has stood the test of time as one of the best side-scrolling adventures Nintendo has ever made.

Upon release, Wario Land 4 was praised for its impressive graphics, dynamic soundtrack, and innovative level design. Unlike traditional Mario platformers, Wario’s adventures focus more on exploration, puzzle-solving, and unique power-ups rather than simple platforming challenges. Players control Wario as he ventures into a mysterious pyramid, collecting treasures and battling foes along the way.

What Makes Wario Land 4 Special?

One of the standout features of Wario Land 4 is its transformation system. Instead of collecting power-ups like in a Mario game, Wario changes form when he interacts with enemies or hazards. Some of his transformations include:

• Vampire Wario – Allows him to fly and reach otherwise inaccessible areas.
• Zombie Wario – Lets him fall through platforms to reach secret spots.
• Flat Wario – Makes him paper-thin and able to slip through tight spaces.
• Flaming Wario – Engulfs him in flames, burning down obstacles in his way.

These transformations add a layer of creativity to the platforming experience, encouraging players to think outside the box and interact with the environment in unique ways.

The Gameplay Experience

Unlike traditional platformers where reaching the goal is the only objective, Wario Land 4 features a time-based escape system. Each level contains a key item called the “Frog Switch” that, once pressed, starts a countdown timer. Players must then race back to the level’s entrance before time runs out, adding an exciting layer of tension and urgency to each stage.

Additionally, Wario Land 4 boasts engaging boss battles, with each boss requiring different strategies to defeat. These encounters are not just about jumping on enemies but involve using Wario’s strength and transformations creatively.

When & How to Play

• Release Date: February 14, 2025
• Platform: Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
• Previous Wario Games Available: Wario Land 3 (already available in the Game Boy section of the Expansion Pack)

Nintendo Switch Online members who have the Expansion Pack can play Wario Land 4 at no extra cost when it launches.

Why This Matters

Nintendo has been steadily adding classic titles to its Nintendo Switch Online service, giving both longtime fans and new players access to retro gems. The Wario Land series has long been overshadowed by Mario’s adventures, but the arrival of Wario Land 4 is a great sign that Nintendo hasn’t forgotten about its quirky, money-hungry antihero.

With the success of Nintendo’s retro offerings on the Switch, fans are hopeful that even more classic Game Boy Advance games—and possibly even a new Wario title—could be on the horizon. Until then, players can dive back into Wario Land 4 and enjoy one of the greatest handheld platformers ever made.