Nintendo Switch Almost Had Its Own Virtual Console Service, Report Claims

Back in 2006, when Nintendo released the Wii console, they introduced an appealing feature that attracted many buyers – the Virtual Console. This platform allowed users to purchase and play classic video games from various systems, including not just Nintendo’s old consoles but also popular ones like Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx-16 for a few dollars. Over the years, Nintendo maintained this feature on platforms such as Wii U and 3DS. However, with the advent of the Switch, Nintendo changed its approach to offering classic games. Rather than selling them individually, they introduced Nintendo Switch Online, which allows users to access these old games as part of their subscription fee.

The decision to prevent fans from owning these games has sparked debate, with many expressing disapproval. However, it appears that this wasn’t originally the intention. According to Yakumono’s Blog (via Nintendo Life), leaked emails suggest that a Virtual Console was being developed for the Switch. The blog post speculates that Nintendo Switch Online subscribers might have been able to download one Virtual Console game each month at no additional cost as part of their subscription benefits.

Yakumono’s blog post discusses some initial discussions surrounding the issues faced at the start. There were apprehensions about fans feeling dissatisfied due to needing to repurchase games, and a small launch library being insufficient. However, over time, Nintendo and its emulation teams transitioned to the current system, allowing subscribers to play various games based on their subscription level for specific platforms. As per Yakumono’s blog post, these leaked documents suggest that the existing model was devised with a long-term support plan in mind, which implies that we can expect the current apps to persist rather than being revamped with each new console generation.

As a devoted Nintendo Switch gamer, I’ve found that while the emulation of classic games isn’t flawless under the existing model, there’s no denying the advantages of having these apps compared to purchasing each game individually. Over time, rumors have surfaced about third-party developers expressing dissatisfaction with the Virtual Console, and the pricing system often created more hassle than it was worth. However, the all-you-can-play approach has ignited curiosity among Switch users, prompting us to explore games that we might not have otherwise paid $5 or $10 for. In my case, I wouldn’t have bought “Iggy’s Reckin’ Balls” or “Extreme-G,” but their inclusion in the N64 app gave me a chance to delve into both titles. I’m certain that many other subscribers share this experience.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve got to admit that Nintendo Switch Online isn’t flawless, but it’s tough to argue against the goldmine of classic games it offers. The NES, SNES, Game Boy, N64, GBA, and even Sega Genesis apps have truly elevated the service in my eyes. Sure, some might still pine for the Virtual Console, but if Nintendo is serious about long-term support for these apps, I’m confident that the value will only grow richer over time.

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2025-01-12 18:39