The Disney Afternoon Collection – one of the best retro compilations ever made – just got a second life. The ESRB recently rated the package for both Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, confirming Atari is bringing Capcom’s legendary NES Disney games to Nintendo’s latest hardware. DuckTales, Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers 1 & 2, Darkwing Duck, and TaleSpin are coming back with modern enhancements for a new generation.
Originally released in 2017 by Digital Eclipse for PS4, Xbox One, and PC, the collection became an instant classic. Fans praised the faithful emulation, rewind feature, galleries, music players, and bonus modes that made the notoriously difficult NES titles far more approachable. Now Nintendo players finally get their turn, just as the Switch 2 launch window approaches.
What Games Are Included?
The collection packs six Capcom-developed Disney masterpieces from the NES era:
- DuckTales (1989) – Scrooge McDuck’s iconic platformer with pogo-jumping cane action
- DuckTales 2 (1993) – The lesser-known sequel with new levels and secrets
- Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers (1990) – Co-op platformer masterpiece
- Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers 2 (1994) – Even better co-op action
- Darkwing Duck (1991) – Challenging platformer with gas gun shooting
- TaleSpin (1991) – Baloo’s shoot ’em up adventure
Why This Collection Still Matters in 2026
These aren’t just old games – they’re some of Capcom’s finest 8-bit work. DuckTales remains one of the greatest platformers ever made, with tight controls, memorable music, and secrets galore. The Rescue Rangers games perfected co-op platforming years before it became standard. Even the more challenging titles like Darkwing Duck earn respect for their design.
The 2017 version revolutionized retro gaming with features modern players expect:
- Save states and rewind functionality
- Gallery mode with concept art and ads
- Music player with original soundtracks
- Time Attack and Boss Rush modes
- Pixel-perfect emulation
- Optional CRT filters and borders
Digital Eclipse’s presentation earned universal praise, with IGN calling it a collection that “resurrects a few NES classics with a great rewind button.”
Perfect Timing for Switch 2 Launch
ESRB ratings typically appear 1-3 months before release, positioning this collection as either a late Switch exclusive or perfect Switch 2 launch companion. Atari handling publishing makes sense – the company has embraced retro re-releases with collections like Atari 50 and various arcade compilations.
The E for Everyone rating cites Mild Fantasy Violence and Use of Tobacco (Darkwing Duck’s cigar), milder than the 2017 E10+ rating. This suggests possible content adjustments or ESRB guideline changes. Either way, it’s family-friendly nostalgia perfect for all ages.
| Game | Original Release | Playtime | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| DuckTales | 1989 | 6-8 hours | Medium |
| Rescue Rangers 1 | 1990 | 4-6 hours | Medium |
| Darkwing Duck | 1991 | 3-5 hours | Hard |
| TaleSpin | 1991 | 2-4 hours | Medium |
Atari Steps Up Retro Game Publishing
Atari’s involvement continues their renaissance as retro champions. Recent hits include Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration and various arcade collections. Publishing the Disney Afternoon Collection fits perfectly with their strategy of enhanced retro packages.
Disney’s hands-off approach also makes sense. The company rarely re-releases old games directly but happily licenses them to specialists like Digital Eclipse and now Atari. With Epic Games owning Bandai Namco (Capcom’s old publishing partner), this collection represents a rare old-school Disney-Capcom reunion.
FAQs
Is this the same collection from 2017?
Yes – it includes the exact same six NES games with Digital Eclipse’s enhancements. Expect save states, rewind, galleries, and all the modern features that made the original version essential.
Why now in 2026?
Nintendo Switch lacks this collection, creating pent-up demand. The ESRB rating coincides with Switch 2 anticipation, positioning it as either a strong Switch finale or Switch 2 launch companion.
Who is publishing it?
Atari handles publishing duties. Digital Eclipse likely returns for emulation and enhancements. The studio specializes in retro collections and worked on the original 2017 version.
Will it have Switch 2 enhancements?
Unknown, but expect improved performance and possible Joy-Con 2 features. The dual Switch/Switch 2 rating suggests backward compatibility with upgraded visuals or controls.
Why the rating change from E10+ to E?
ESRB guidelines evolve, and content perception changes. The E rating still notes Mild Fantasy Violence and Tobacco use, just classified milder than 2017 standards.
Are there new features planned?
No confirmation, but expect online leaderboards, Switch-exclusive features, or Switch 2-specific enhancements. The core package remains the same beloved collection.
Which game is best?
DuckTales leads for tight platforming and music. Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers wins for co-op. Darkwing Duck challenges most. All represent Capcom’s 8-bit peak.
Nostalgia That Still Delivers
The Disney Afternoon Collection transcends simple emulation. These games represent Capcom’s golden era of licensed platformers – tight controls, memorable music, clever level design. Modern enhancements make them accessible without diluting challenge.
For Switch owners, this fills a massive gap. For Switch 2 adopters, it’s instant nostalgia. Atari and Digital Eclipse understand retro done right – faithful presentation with quality-of-life upgrades. Life’s complicated, but platforming as Chip ‘n Dale or Scrooge McDuck remains pure joy.