Nintendo has expanded its Nintendo Classics lineup for November 2025 with four notable additions across the NES and Game Boy libraries. The update brings Battletoads and Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos to the NES catalog, while the Game Boy selection gains Bionic Commando and Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters.
Battletoads joins the NES library as one of the most demanding beat-’em-up and platforming titles of its era. The release features the trio Rash, Zitz, and Pimple as they attempt to rescue Princess Angelica and their partner Pimple from the Dark Queen. The game is known for its sharp difficulty curve, varied level design, and intense combat system that uses morphing melee attacks to heighten visual impact. Described for decades as one of the hardest games ever made, its levels, such as the Turbo Tunnel, remain defining challenges. Originally released in June 1991 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, it also saw later versions on the Mega Drive, Amiga, and Game Boy, though the Classics update focuses strictly on the NES edition.
Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos arrives alongside it, continuing the story of Ryu Hayabusa as he confronts Ashtar, the Emperor of Darkness, to prevent the power of the Dark Sword of Chaos from being unleashed. The sequel brought refinements such as wall climbing in multiple directions, improved responsiveness, and Shadow Clones that mirror the player’s attacks. First released in 1990 for the NES in both Japan and North America, it later appeared on PC, Amiga, and the Super NES, but the version included here is the original NES release.
The Game Boy catalog receives Bionic Commando and Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters. Bionic Commando, released in September 1992, adapts the NES title into a handheld format with a new science fiction setting and the signature bionic arm mechanic. The protagonist still cannot jump, so movement relies entirely on grappling across gaps and climbing ledges. Mission progression is managed through an overhead map, retaining the structure and challenge of the original while offering a portable interpretation.
Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters continues the adventures of Pit as he seeks three sacred treasures to defend Angel Land from the demon Orcos. The Game Boy release preserves the vertical platforming and upgrade systems of the first game but introduces improvements such as flinching without falling and a more forgiving stage layout. Launched in North America in November 1991 and later in Europe, it remains exclusive to the Game Boy.
All four games become part of the November 2025 Nintendo Classics update, expanding the service with a mix of acclaimed platformers, action titles, and historically significant releases from the NES and Game Boy eras.
