Nintendo Takes a Rare Step: Removing a Retro Game from Switch Online’s Classic Catalog

In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the gaming community, Nintendo has announced that it will be removing a retro game from its Nintendo Switch Online classic catalog for the first time since the service launched in 2018. The game in question is Super Formation Soccer, a Super Famicom title that will be taken off the service in Japan on March 28. But what does this mean for gamers, and what are the implications for the future of Nintendo’s retro game offerings?

A First for Nintendo

Nintendo has built a reputation for slowly but surely adding new retro games to its Switch Online classic catalog, giving subscribers a chance to play classic titles from across multiple console libraries. However, this move marks a departure from that strategy, as Super Formation Soccer will no longer be available for download or play on Switch consoles in Japan. Even players who have already downloaded and installed the game will no longer be able to access it after March 28.

Why the Removal?

It appears that the removal is due to the expiration of a licensing deal between Nintendo and Spike Chunsoft, the publisher of Super Formation Soccer in Japan. This deal likely doesn’t apply to regions where the game was published by Nintendo itself, which is why the game remains available on Switch Online in other parts of the world.

The Impact on Gamers

While the removal of a single game might not seem like a big deal, it’s a significant departure from Nintendo’s usual approach to its retro game offerings. Unlike Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus, which allow players to purchase games digitally even after they’re removed from the service, Nintendo’s Switch Online classic catalog is locked behind a subscription service. This means that once a game is removed, it’s gone for good.

The Case for Virtual Console

The removal of Super Formation Soccer is a reminder of the importance of Nintendo bringing back its Virtual Console service for the Switch 2. The Virtual Console allowed players to purchase and download classic games digitally, giving them more control over their gaming libraries. With the rise of subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Now, it’s more important than ever for Nintendo to offer a similar option to its fans.

Actionable Insights

• If you’re a Nintendo Switch Online subscriber in Japan, make sure to download Super Formation Soccer before March 28 to ensure you can continue playing it.
• The removal of Super Formation Soccer is a reminder of the importance of Nintendo bringing back its Virtual Console service for the Switch 2.
• Consider purchasing classic games digitally through the Nintendo eShop to ensure you have control over your gaming library.

Conclusion

Nintendo’s decision to remove Super Formation Soccer from its Switch Online classic catalog is a rare and significant move. While it’s understandable that licensing deals can expire, it’s a reminder of the importance of Nintendo offering more flexibility and control to its fans. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it’s more important than ever for Nintendo to adapt and offer its fans the options they crave.