The Ultimate List of Backwards Compatible Consoles You Might Have Forgotten

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Summary

  • The Nintendo Switch 2 will have backward compatibility, allowing games from the original console to be played on the new one.
  • Past Nintendo consoles like the GameCube, Wii, and 3DS also had backward compatibility features for older games, extending their lifespan.
  • Other companies like Sony and Microsoft have also implemented backward compatibility in their consoles, allowing players to enjoy older games.

The next generation of Nintendo Switch, referred to as Nintendo Switch 2, is soon to be released and boasts several enhancements, including a jump to 4K resolution and a bigger screen for enjoying games like “Mario Kart World” and “Donkey Kong: Bananza”. One feature generating much anticipation is the ability for games originally designed for the Nintendo Switch to still work on the new Nintendo Switch 2, a functionality known as backwards compatibility.

The Switch 2 isn’t unique in offering backward compatibility; it’s a feature that numerous Nintendo systems and even those from other brands have offered for quite some time. This way, games don’t just live on the consoles they were originally designed for, but can be enjoyed by subsequent generations of gamers who might not own the same hardware.

7. GameCube

Handheld Games Could Be Played On TVs

  • Launched: September 14, 2001
  • Discontinued: June 15, 2009

The GameCube, where timeless games like “The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker” and the remake of “Resident Evil” resided, was Nintendo’s first console to use CDs instead of cartridges. This shift meant that Nintendo 64 games could no longer be played directly on the system, but an alternative method was available through a device called the Game Boy Player.

The Game Boy Player seamlessly integrates and matches with your console, making it possible to enjoy games like “The Legend Of Zelda: The Minish Cap” from your Game Boy, Game Boy Color, or Game Boy Advance systems on larger screens. In 2003, this level of backward compatibility was quite uncommon, having been only previously seen in a comparable device for the Nintendo 64 on a similar scale.

6. Wii

No Accessories Were Needed For GameCube Games

  • Launched: November 19, 2006
  • Discontinued: October 21, 2013

On each new CD console model, Nintendo consistently catered to their fanbase by ensuring that older console games were playable on the latest system. This means that any Nintendo Wii owner can savor games such as Wii Sports and Mario Party 8, with the main attraction being both motion control features and traditional controller options.

Luckily, GameCube enthusiasts didn’t have to abandon their beloved games just because their consoles malfunctioned or were sold. They could simply place a GameCube disc and controller into a Wii console and continue playing their preferred games from that era without needing any additional peripherals.

5. Wii U

Wii Games Felt Even Better On The Wii U

  • Launched: November 18, 2012
  • Discontinued: January 31, 2017

Initially, the Wii U was seen as a less impressive console at its launch, primarily because it heavily relied on the Gamepad, which eventually transformed into the Switch. Fans generally viewed it as an upgraded Wii with some standout games that ultimately made their way onto the next-generation console.

From my perspective as a gaming enthusiast, I must admit that while the Wii U may not have been as revolutionary as its predecessor, it certainly offered enhanced ways to enjoy classic Wii games. Being Nintendo’s first HD console, the visual and gameplay quality of these titles was slightly improved. This meant that one could seamlessly transition from playing Super Mario 3D World to Super Mario Galaxy, essentially doubling the 3D Mario adventure experience, all on a single console.

4. 3DS

Nintendo DS Games Were Still Viable On The Handheld Console

  • Launched: February 26, 2011
  • Discontinued: September 17, 2020

It can be said that backward compatibility played a significant role in extending the lifespan of the Nintendo 3DS, as it initially struggled at launch due to limited games. However, hit titles such as Luigi’s Mansion 2: Dark Moon and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D revitalized the handheld console, enabling it to endure well into the era dominated by the Nintendo Switch.

Just like their larger counterparts, handheld devices managed to preserve a method for playing games from earlier generations. This was particularly beneficial for the Nintendo DS series, as it boasted hundreds of titles. Many players appreciated the opportunity to revisit these games on the 3DS, which not only provided a larger screen but also improved controls through the addition of an analog stick rather than a D-Pad.

3. PlayStation 5

Sony’s Fifth Console Completely Replaced The Fourth

  • Launched: November 12, 2020
  • Still In Production

Initially, upon its release in 2020, games for the Sony PlayStation 5 were as rare as the consoles themselves. However, times have shifted, and now the PS5 boasts an extensive library of games. What makes this console stand out is its impressive upgrade, allowing it to play most PlayStation 4 games right off the bat, with faster loading times and significantly quieter cooling fans.

Over time, various PlayStation 4 games have received PS5 enhancements; some of these upgrades are free, while others require payment. Additionally, new releases such as Spider-Man: Miles Morales and God Of War: Ragnarok join the mix. With such an abundance of reasons to upgrade and minimal benefits from keeping the old PS4 consoles, it becomes hard to justify their continued use, especially since the console lacks backward compatibility for physical games except for digital ones.

2. Xbox One

Old Games Were Playable Through Discs And Xbox Game Pass

  • Launched: November 22, 2013
  • Discontinued: November 10, 2020

Microsoft has made extraordinary efforts to ensure their gamers can continue enjoying their classic games, with the Xbox One being a prime example. Not only did it support newer releases like “Dead Rising 3” and “Halo 5: Guardians”, but it also enabled users to insert Xbox 360 and original Xbox games for those seeking a blast from the past.

Even though not all the titles were playable, it’s still a useful choice because there are many games from the Xbox and Xbox 360 that remain unremastered or uncopied, such as Batman: Arkham Origins. The Xbox Game Pass could provide an option to play older titles digitally, but those who prefer physical collections won’t be excluded.

1. PlayStation 3

Sony Created The Ideal Triple Threat Console

  • Launched: November 11, 2006
  • Discontinued: May 29, 2017

Much like the Xbox One, Sony’s original PlayStation 3 console was capable of running games from three different generations. In one moment, players could immerse themselves in the gripping action of God Of War 3, and the next, they could step back a generation to gather power cells in Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy. Furthermore, the console also supported Naughty Dog’s popular character Crash Bandicoot from the PS1 era.

As a gamer, I’ve got to say, each variant of the PlayStation 3 could spin original PlayStation discs just fine, but here’s an oddity – only the initial model had the knack for running PlayStation 2 games. Having all three versions on hand was like striking gold for collectors, because let’s face it, not everyone is ready to part ways with their vintage games, and some of those classics are as elusive as a unicorn in today’s market, even at retro game stores and pawn shops.

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2025-04-11 18:40