Hideki Kamiya Wants Virtual Console to Make a Comeback on Switch 2

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Summary

  • Hideki Kamiya supports a revival of the Virtual Console, but it is uncertain due to Nintendo’s focus on Switch Online.
  • The Virtual Console was a popular way to purchase older Nintendo games.
  • Switch Online now offers a subscription-based alternative for those who want to play classic games on modern hardware.

Hideki Kamiya has expressed his desire to see a collection of retro Nintendo games offered for purchase on the proposed “Switch 2” console. Although it’s uncertain if the Virtual Console will make a comeback, these comments from Kamiya indicate that there is interest among fans in playing classic Nintendo games on the upcoming Switch 2 device.

Making its debut on the Wii in 2006, the Virtual Console served as a platform for offering a variety of classic games from earlier Nintendo systems for purchase by gamers. After its initial release, this distribution method was extended to the 3DS in 2011 and the Wii U in 2013. However, not all games were available through the Virtual Console. It did, nevertheless, offer Nintendo enthusiasts a convenient way to buy numerous titles from consoles like NES, SNES, N64, as well as handheld devices such as Game Boy and GBA, directly from home. Regrettably, the Virtual Console was shut down on the Wii, Wii U, and 3DS, leaving fans with no means to purchase many of these iconic games.

During a recent interview with IGN, game developer Hideki Kamiya expressed his fondness for the Virtual Console. This topic was brought up after Kamiya, known for creating games such as Okami and Bayonetta, was asked about his thoughts on the Switch 2. In reply, Kamiya voiced his desire to see the Virtual Console revived. He stated, “On a personal note, I would greatly appreciate if the Virtual Console were reintroduced.” Essentially, Kamiya is urging Nintendo to reinstate the distribution model for classic games.

The Shift to a Subscription Model With Nintendo Switch Online

It’s intriguing that Kamiya is advocating for the reintroduction of the Virtual Console, but given Nintendo’s recent direction, it appears quite improbable. Instead, the tech giant has been focusing on enhancing the Nintendo Switch Online service. This subscription platform has grown since its launch to offer a library of classic games from various retro systems. New titles are continuously added to this collection, with Wario Land 4, originally from the GBA, being the most recent addition.

As a personal comment, I personally would love to see the Virtual Console rebooted.

It’s important to mention that Nintendo Switch Online offers a budget-friendly solution for many users to enjoy a wide variety of classic Nintendo games. On the other hand, the Virtual Console allowed gamers to own each title individually and keep it permanently. With NSO, access to the library is lost if the subscription is canceled.

It’s intriguing to anticipate the evolution of the retro gaming environment on the potential Switch 2 console. Although some information about the device has been leaked ahead of its unveiling in January, there are still several aspects that remain unclear regarding this system. Luckily, a dedicated presentation titled “Switch 2 Direct” is scheduled for April 2, offering more insights into the console, its games, and potentially the services it will offer.

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2025-02-15 04:54