A trio of SNES additions arrive for Switch, including a lost Mario puzzler

Two SNES games formerly available only in Japan make their debut on the Switch, and one of them stars a hardhatted Mario.

How’s that?

It might seem odd, but not all of the games starring Nintendo’s Super Mario made it to Western audiences. While none could be called core games (maybe SMB2?), it’s still shocking to see Nintendo leave anything ‘Mario’ off of the console’s roster. Yet, that’s exactly what happened with Wrecking Crew ’98.

Featuring Mario as a hardhat wearing de-construction crew member, Wrecking Crew ’98 was a puzzle game more than anything else. Stocking 100 stages, fans would have to guide Mario past foes while knocking down ladders, walls, and panels. But it’s not the only non-Western game hitting as a part of the Switch’s Online membership, as there’s also Amazing Hebereke.

From Sunsoft and originally released in 1994, Amazing Hebereke looks interesting indeed. Players battle it out solo or with up to three others in arenas filled with traps and items. Not that environmental hazards are all that they’ll have access to to put foes away. Each character also has a special attack, and it looks like those could tip the balance in matches.

And finally, on a completely different note, there’s Super R-Type, one of the greatest from the legendary SNES shooter pantheon. Super R-Type is one of the best-loved entries in the long running series from Irem, it’s also tough as nails. Even the lowest difficulty setting isn’t easy, especially if you’re a newcomer to the genre.

No released date was listed for any of the above in the press release, though stay tuned for a drop some time soon. These announcements tend to be timed pretty close to release after all. Scratch that, it looks like all three are available right now.

Oh, and of course you’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to actually play any of these titles. Just something to keep in mind for those who don’t have one.

SUPER NES

• Wrecking Crew ’98 – Mario picks up his Wrecking Crew hammer in this action puzzler previously only available in Japan. In this game you can play either the original Wrecking Crew or the updated Wrecking Crew ’98, each version featuring its own challenges to puzzle through. Wreck your way across 100 stages as Mario in Wrecking Crew and dodge enemies while knocking down walls and ladders. Then out-wreck the competition in Wrecking Crew ’98 by destroying and arranging panels to line up matching colors. Clear four or more panels at once to launch an attack on your opponent – the more panels you clear, the more powerful your attack! Do you have what it takes to bring the hammer down and claim victory?
• SUPER R-TYPE – A galactic battle begins! The evil BYDO Empire of mutant extraterrestrials is back and poised to launch a new attack on Earth. Only the revolutionary R-9, the planet’s most advanced form of defense, stands between it and certain doom. Fight through seven challenging stages against foes with advanced fire power – picking up power-up items as you progress – before taking on powerful level bosses. You’ll need lightning reflexes and a big dose of cosmic luck to hold your own. Luckily, several difficulty options are available to adjust the experience, from NOVICE all the way up to the ultimate challenge of PRO mode. “R” you ready to battle across the vast frontiers of space?
• Amazing Hebereke  – Developed by SUNSOFT and originally released for the Super Famicom system in 1994, Amazing Hebereke is about to make its U.S. debut! Engage in cute and chaotic battles in single-player mode or with up to four players** in VS. mode. Select your character, then tussle on stages littered with items and traps to make use of (or fall victim to)! Unleash your character’s special attack and try to be the last one standing.