Classic Games Are Being Removed From the Nintendo Switch eShop

by

Some timeless games on Nintendo Switch eShop are being taken down, making it impossible for owners of Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and potential future models to access these games. Notably, these games cannot be bought physically, so once they are removed from the eShop, there will no longer be any way to acquire them for those who wish to own the 1990s versions. However, it’s worth mentioning that these specific Switch games can still be found in certain regions, such as the United States, for individuals interested in purchasing them before they are discontinued.

According to D4 Enterprise’s latest update on social media X, they are discontinuing the sale of the PC-9801 versions of ‘Brandish Renewal’ and ‘Fray’. However, as reported by Delisted Games, it seems that the PC-9801 version of ‘Puyo Puyo’, also from D4 Enterprise, has been removed from the Nintendo eShop, but only in certain regions. For now, you can still purchase the game on the North American edition of the Nintendo eShop.

Why Are These Nintendo Switch Games Being Removed From the eShop?

Users wondering why three Nintendo Switch games have been taken down from the eShop might find the vague explanation provided by D4 Interactive, stating “due to circumstances,” rather unsatisfying. Generally, such removals are likely due to licensing issues, especially since the licenses in question are over 30 years old and involve MS-DOS games. However, it’s important to note that this is just speculation at this point.

As a devoted Nintendo Switch enthusiast, I’ve noticed a trend that can be frustrating: on other platforms, games are occasionally removed due to inappropriate content, but that’s not usually the case with Nintendo. In fact, it’s quite rare for Nintendo to take down games from the eShop for this reason, which is something that leaves many Switch users like me feeling a bit frustrated.

More About the Delisted Games

For individuals unfamiliar with these games, “Fray” is a role-playing game (RPG) from 1990, which served as a spin-off of the Gaiden series. At its launch, it was a top seller for developer Microcabin. On the other hand, “Brandish: Renewal” is a re-release of the 1991 RPG “Brandish”, and it was a successful venture for developer Nihon Falcom. They released several sequels and a PSP remake in 2009. These are relatively obscure, yet historically significant RPGs. While they may not be the best RPGs available on the hypothetical Switch 2, they were pivotal releases during the early stages of the RPG genre’s development.

Will These Games Return to the Nintendo eShop?

At present, D4 Enterprise has yet to provide any information about the Nintendo Switch games coming back onto the market. If the absence of these games is due to licensing issues, there’s a possibility they may return once resolved. Historically, games have been taken down from digital storefronts due to licensing concerns and then reappear at a later date with the issue addressed. That being said, your feedback is always welcome. Are you planning on getting these Switch games before they disappear from the eShop, or are you looking forward to future releases instead?

https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/nintendo-switch-2-controller-joy-con-leak/embed/#

Read More

2025-08-28 18:41