The Switch Online service has provided players access to iconic NES and SNES games for almost three years now. However, rumors surfaced several days ago that Nintendo is planning to expand Switch Online’s selection of older games byadding Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles into the mix. It is worth noting that this is not the first time Game Boy games have been rumored for Nintendo Switch Online.
The latest one stems from dataminers discovering unused emulators living inside Nintendo Switch Online’s code. At the moment, Nintendo still hasn’t confirmed the rumors, so players should take it with a grain of salt. However, the possibility of Nintendo expanding the selection of vintage games onNintendo SwitchOnline isn’t at all unlikely, especially with all the benefits that the company stands to receive.
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Game Boy Games Could Boost The Value of Nintendo Switch Online
At the moment, the Nintendo Switch Online service offers Switch players access to the console’s online multiplayer functionality, alongsidea wide selection of SNES and NES games. In a way, Switch Online is the latest form of Nintendo’s Virtual Console, the return of which has been long requested by Switch owners.
The 3DS and Wii U eShops May Not Last For Long
Another important reason why Nintendo should include Game Boy games in Nintendo Switch Online is that the 3DS and Wii U eShops may not last for long. It is worth remembering that several months ago, Nintendo of Japan announced that starting 2022, it will no longer allow3DS and Wii U usersto add funds via credit card or e-money. Once support for external payment methods is discontinued, players will only be able to purchase games via Nintendo prepaid cards or by linking their Nintendo Network ID with their Nintendo account.
Although the announcement is only applicable to users in Japan, it wouldn’t be surprising if Nintendo extends the same ruling to other territories. It is worth knowing that the announcement does not say that the eShops of 3DS and Wii U are set to close in 2022. However, the reduction of support of external payment methods may bethe beginning of the end for the 3DS and Wii U’s eShops, and Nintendo’s way to slowly close them down.
Of course, if the eShops of the 3DS and Wii U are eventually closed, then players will no longer have any way to purchase and play Game Boy games unless they still have access toactual Game Boy consoles and games. However, Nintendo isn’t likely to close off all access to its older games, which is why it makes perfect sense for the company to expand Switch Online’s library by adding Game Boy and Game Boy Color games.
