Top 10 Unanswered Questions About the Nintendo Switch
What a reveal! Nintendo finally dropped a trailer on the world, pulling back the curtain on the console once code-named Nintendo NX. Officially named “Nintendo Switch”, the trailer revealed a wealth of information – enough to get COGconnected officially excited! But now as we reflect on what we learned, we’re left with even more questions than answers. We’re going to share those questions with you right here!
Note: While some of these questions may have been answered via rumors, for this article we’re going to focus on information directly from Nintendo unless otherwise noted.
10 – Will There be Backward Compatibility?
EDIT: Answered! Sadly, Nintendo has said no to backward compatibility.
The trailer showed two Wii U games, Mario Kart 8 and Splatoon. It’s safe to assume that both games will be available on the Nintendo Switch, but will existing owners need to re-purchase a “Switch” version, or will their existing copy work? The console does not appear to have a disc drive, so disc copies would be a no-go, but that shouldn’t prevent digital copies from working. Of course, some Wii U games require the Wii Remotes, so will the Joy-Con controllers (the detachable mini controllers flanking the Switch screen) double as Wii Remotes? And what about the massive Virtual Console library? Will Nintendo fans have to repurchase these games yet again?
Our Thoughts:
I think it’s safe to say Virtual Console games will be 100% backward compatible, as they’ll be attached to your Nintendo Network account. As for Wii U games, if they’re backward compatible, then either Wii U controllers (including the Wii U Gamepad) would be usable with the new system (doubtful) – or the console features controls that will simulate Wii U controls (meaning a touchscreen and motion control Joy-Con controllers).
9 – Will Miiverse Return?
Miiverse was Nintendo’s social media network that had some cool features on both Wii U, PC and 3DS. It would be a shame if Nintendo scrapped it.
Our Thoughts:
Miiverse will be back and vastly improved. It’s safe to say that even some Street Pass features could be included with Switch’s portability.
8 – How Many Controllers Will Each Switch Console Support?
One of Nintendo’s biggest Wii U games, Super Smash Bros allowed 8 players to fight locally using a variety of control methods including the Wii U Remotes, Pro Controllers and 3DS’s. Will we be given a similar option with the inevitable Switch Smash Bros? If so, what controllers will be supported? Will extra Joy-Con controllers be available for purchase? Or will additional players need to have additional Switch Pro controllers?
Our Thoughts:
Nintendo really pushes local co-operative and competitive play. As such, it’s unlikely Nintendo would take a step backward and not give us the option for eight player games like Super Smash Bros.
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