In gaming lexicon, backward compatibility refers to the feature of bringing older titles to a newer platform. The Virtual Console is Nintendo’s version of it, offering classic video games from previous console generations and arcade machines for Wii, Wii U, and 3DS owners.
The trend is set to cease where the Switch is concerned, however.
Following news that the current-gen console will include a library of 20 NES games with its new online service, the Big N has finally answered one of the long-standing questions in the community, stating that “there are currently no plans to bring classic games together under the Virtual Console banner as has been done on other Nintendo systems”.
According to Kotaku, a Nintendo spokesperson was quoted to have said:
“There are a variety of ways in which classic games from Nintendo and other publishers are made available on Nintendo Switch, such as through Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Switch Online, Nintendo eShop or as packaged collections. Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Switch Online will provide a fun new way to experience classic NES games that will be different from the Virtual Console service, thanks to enhancements such as added online play, voice chat via the Nintendo Switch Online app, and the various play modes of Nintendo Switch.”
Essentially, this means that the industry giant is still granting gamers access to their retro titles, just not on a dedicated platform. Rumours point towards a brand change or an alternative avenue to access these classics when the online service comes into play. Japanese publisher Hamster has taken upon themselves to launch Switch ports of various Neo Geo games, including classics like Blazing Star and Fatal Fury, with Sega intending to revive its Sega Ages line of classic console and arcade titles for the Switch as well.
Considering the huge success of the Virtual Console back in its heyday, the absence of the hybrid console is certainly a blow to fans. Nonetheless, there are other alternatives to make do with – apart from the Nintendo Switch Online, there’s also the Super NES Classic Edition, as well as the NES Classic Edition that sees a return to the shelves come Summer 2018.
Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.
Trinity Sun
