In 2006, the Nintendo Wii revolutionized video games with its gesture controls, family games, and unprecedented accessibility. Two decades later, the cult console could return through the front door on Nintendo Switch Online. According to several sources close to the matter, Nintendo is considering adding three new retro consoles to its service: the Wii, Nintendo DS and SEGA CD. “I feel like I’m one of the few who enjoy Nintendo Switch Online, and the new reasons to keep my membership are welcome. » – Sam Cawley, journalist at GAMINGbible
A leak relayed on GameCube or the Nintendo 64.
Excellent news for nostalgic fans… subject to conditions
Although Nintendo has not yet officially confirmed anything, the idea of rediscovering Wii classics like Super Mario Galaxy or Wii Sports already excites the community. These additions would allow you to (re)discover flagship games without having to take your old console out of the closet.
However, the arrival of three platforms at once could also saturate the pace of publication of new gamesoften criticized for its slowness. “Even when one or two games are added, there’s a good chance it’s an obscure title from a third-party publisher rather than a game of real value. »
Concerns about the price and the catalog
The other major fear comes from the price. The Switch Online + Additional Pack subscription already costs €39.99 per yearand several observers fear a price increase following the expansion of the catalog. Moreover, if the addition of the GameCube was accompanied by tempting promises, few titles were actually made available players so far.
A strategy before Switch 2?
It is difficult not to see in this initiative a seduction operation before the arrival of the Switch 2which rumors announce will be released sometime in 2025-2026. By relaunching the Wii on its service, Nintendo is capitalizing on nostalgia to retain its subscribers while preparing for its future.
Anyway, this virtual resurrection of the Wii proves once again that Nintendo knows how to rekindle the flame among its fans… provided it delivers content that matches it.