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| Nintendo Switch 8-Bit Controllers |
Nintendo Expands Sales of Switch 8-Bit Controllers to All – Embrace the Retro Gaming Experience
More than any other video game company, Nintendo is expected to fully embrace its heritage, especially from the iconic 8-bit era. The Famicom/NES systems were home to genre-defining titles, many developed by Nintendo itself, that remain beloved franchises to this day.
However, Nintendo's relationship with its classic games has been somewhat complicated. For years, the company sold updated versions of its 8-bit system controllers for use with its current flagship Switch hardware. But these controllers were exclusively available to members of the Nintendo Switch Online service package. Membership didn’t mean you received the controllers for free or at a discount; it merely allowed you the privilege to buy them.
This exclusivity appeared to be an attempt to incentivize signing up for Nintendo Switch Online but ended up alienating many potential customers who were eager to purchase the controllers but didn't want to subscribe to the service.
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| Nintendo Switch 8-Bit Games |
Big Change: Open Sales for All
As of July 18, Nintendo has changed this policy. Anyone can now buy a set of Switch-compatible Famicom controllers. Nintendo of Japan made this announcement through its official Twitter account, and the My Nintendo Store e-shop page for the Family Computer Controllers no longer mentions a requirement for a Nintendo Switch Online membership.
Perfect Timing with New Game Release
This change coincides with the release of "Nintendo World Championships: Famicom World Championship" (titled "Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition" in the U.S.), a new collection of score/time-attack minigames based on landmark titles from the Famicom/NES era. Unlike the collection of playable Famicom/NES games available to Nintendo Switch Online members, this new game can be purchased and played without a subscription, increasing the demand for retro controllers among non-members.
Now, anyone in Japan can purchase a Famicom controller set through the My Nintendo Store for 6,578 yen, or at major electronics retailers. However, it's important to note that only the player one controller has start and select buttons, just like the original Famicom controllers.
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| Nintendo Switch 8-Bit Controllers |
Availability in the U.S.
Unfortunately, this policy change has not yet extended to the U.S. As of now, the Nintendo Entertainment System controllers still require a Nintendo Switch Online membership for purchase through the U.S. My Nintendo Store. While Nintendo of America has discounted them by 20 percent to celebrate the release of "Nintendo World Championships," there has been no announcement about expanding their availability.
A Step in the Right Direction
The decision to make Famicom Controllers available to everyone in Japan is a positive move, showing Nintendo's willingness to cater to a broader audience of both casual gamers and retro enthusiasts. By allowing all customers to purchase these nostalgic controllers, Nintendo is enhancing the gaming experience and honoring its rich history.
Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Nintendo's classic games, now is the perfect time to get your hands on these 8-bit controllers and enjoy retro gaming the way it was meant to be played.
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