Nintendo's previous consoles offered a unique way for fans to access retro games through the "Virtual Console," a first-party feature that allowed players to purchase and own classic titles. Recent reports reveal that the feature was originally intended for the Nintendo Switch lineup but was ultimately shelved in favor of a different approach.
Instead of a dedicated Virtual Console, Nintendo Switch users were given access to retro games via the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscription service, offering a similar experience with a few key differences.
A Virtual Console Experience for the Switch Was Almost a Thing
Yakumono's Blog, cited by Nintendo Life and ComicBook Gaming, revealed that the Nintendo Switch was initially slated to include a Virtual Console feature, allowing users to purchase classic Nintendo games for a one-time fee. This model would have allowed gamers to own the games outright, as opposed to the subscription-based approach that eventually replaced it.
The Virtual Console service on previous consoles like the Wii, Wii U, and 3DS was a trusted method for accessing retro titles. Notably, the service offered games from not only Nintendo consoles but also third-party systems like the SEGA Genesis and TurboGrafx-16.
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Nintendo Opted for NSO Subscription for Retro Games
Although Nintendo briefly considered bringing the Virtual Console experience to the Switch, the company ultimately chose to integrate retro games into the Nintendo Switch Online service. According to earlier rumors, players could have purchased individual retro games, but NSO subscribers were expected to receive one classic game for free as part of the membership perks.
In the end, Nintendo opted for a subscription-based model, offering a library of retro games through NSO, rather than a Virtual Console where players could own individual titles.
Nintendo Switch Online's Retro Gaming Feature
Nintendo's commitment to preserving and celebrating its gaming history was evident in the NSO's retro gaming offering. The service allows subscribers to access classic games from consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), as well as other platforms including the SEGA Genesis, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and Nintendo 64.
Over time, Nintendo has added more titles to the NSO library, restoring and modernizing classic games for the Switch. The retro gaming experience on the Switch, though rooted in emulation, offers a smooth, intuitive interface with the use of the Switch's Joy-Cons or other compatible controllers, delivering a retro gaming experience that stands out in the modern gaming era.
While the Virtual Console may have been a missed opportunity for the Switch, Nintendo's NSO subscription service continues to be the primary avenue for enjoying retro titles. Players seeking to enjoy the classics must rely on the NSO membership, as opposed to owning individual games through a Virtual Console.
