Nintendo Switch adds 3 more classic games for free, including beloved Ninja Gaiden entry

Somehow, we're already in September, and while that spells disaster for the sun chasers and Pokémon GO fans who will have to get soggy to hatch eggs, the autumnal season brings the rest of Nintendo's community together to suck the same bated air.

September marks the start of Nintendo Direct season, which means Switch, DS3, and NES users alike can all begin to get a little bit giddy about new games and anticipated DLCs.

While we've not yet had an official date for Nintendo Direct, there has been movement from the publisher, as it appears to be getting its details lined up before some huge AAA releases and unexpected announcements.

Crossing the Ts and dotting the Is before Nintendo Direct, some struggling games have now been axed to make way for new ones, and now three classic titles are being brought into the modern day to keep players on their toes, bursting with nostalgia.

As part of the NES Classics program that brought us Zero Racers and D-Hopper for the Virtual Boy last month, Nintendo Online has announced three Switch games that are now available for a free download.

Three free classic Nintendo games arriving in September

Ninja Gaiden III: The Ancient Ship of Doom

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The highly-rated third instalment of Ninja Gaiden is the first game to arrive as a September Switch freebie, which is a beloved side-scrolling platformer with incredible movement and combat.

Serving as a standalone title in the series, you control Ryu Hayabusa, who is reeling from the death of his friend, Irene Kew. Famed for its ninja arts with jump and slash mechanics and popular weapons, it's a surefire hit for any classic Nintendo fan.

Read Next: 5 historic games to play on Nintendo Switch Online to celebrate legendary series' 40th anniversary

Ikari Warriors

Next, Ikari Warriors is a 1986 title originally designed for arcades before landing on NES a few years later to critical acclaim.

Inspired by Sylvester Stallone and Rambo, the Japanese title follows a duo of commandos who are on the hunt to free their captured colonel. Defeat enemy units, tanks, soldiers, and helicopters in a gung-ho run-and-gun style.

R.C. Pro-AM 2

Mario Kart before Mario Kart, R.C Pro AM is a golden 2D racing simulator where players take control of remote-controlled cars.

Race against others, avoid road obstacles and incoming enemy projectiles, and don't get caught crossing the line in last place. Played in single-player or four-player co-op modes, there are 24 increasingly difficult tracks to operate as you try to become the ultimate R.C. racer.

All three games are live on Nintendo Switch Online for a free download and will remain there beyond September, when the publishers will expand the classic portfolio.