Virtual Console
Virtual Console is the name of a new video game download service offered by Nintendo, accessible to users of the company's upcoming console, the Wii. It has been described by CEO Satoru Iwata as “the video game version of Apple’s iTunes music store”.[1] Virtual Console will feature classic titles from past Nintendo consoles (going as far back as the NES) as well as from formerly competing systems, such as the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis and PC Engine/TurboGrafx 16. While the entire catalogue of games for these machines will not be offered, the "best of them" will be available.[1] This gives the companies a pool of over 1000 Sega games to choose from. [2] More notably, some games may offer free retro downloads as a bonus for the purchase.[3]
While the gameplay will be the same for all of the retro titles offered via the Virtual Console, Nintendo has stated that some of the games may be improved with sharper graphics or better framerates.[4] In addition, gamers may be able to download games that were not originally released in their region, and some multiplayer games may be playable online, if it is technically possible.[5] The Virtual Console service will not be used exclusively for retro games, however. The service will also offer new and original content from independent developers.
Library
Satoru Iwata stated in a speech on March 23, 2006, that Nintendo, Sega and Hudson Soft are working in collaboration to bring a "best of" series of games to the Wii.[1] At E³, Hudson also declared they would bring upwards to 100 titles to the Wii's virtual console. Additionally, Hudson mentioned that all of their lawyers are working on acquiring the licenses to games from now nonexistant companies. [6] While Nintendo has not confirmed any first-party titles, it is assumed that most, if not all, of Nintendo's titles will be available. It is currently not known how third-party game developers will be included in this, though it is certain that some will be. The third-party developers may possibly offer their games at different prices. It was later confirmed that Rareware titles would not be available to download due to Rare's current licensing (with the possible exception of the Donkey Kong games, as they are based on characters Nintendo owns). [7] It was rumored that licensing issues will be the predominant factor in determining whether a game is available for Virtual Console [8], though some additional work will have to be done for each game released. [9] SNK has recently announced intentions to help support the Wii Virtual Console. [2]
Confirmed games
How it works
Games downloaded from Virtual Console library will be stored on a 512 MB flash memory built into Wii. Another storage method is via the USB ports on the back of the system, which enable the use of external storage devices[11]. It is believed that downloads may be stored on an SD card, as a slot is provided for these cards on the Wii console. The Wii will use DRM to prevent games being played on other hardware.
Fees
The prices that Nintendo will charge for downloading games are not known, and will very likely vary depending on what console the game originates from and the popularity of the game.
See also
References
- ^ a b "GDC 06: Revolution to play Genesis, TurboGrafx games". Retrieved 2006-03-22].
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|accessdate=(help); Unknown parameter|org=ignored (help) Cite error: The named reference "gamespot" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page). - ^ "Nintendo, Sega team for gaming iTunes service". Retrieved 2006-03-24].
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|accessdate=(help); Unknown parameter|org=ignored (help) - ^ "Iwata: Revolution downloads not free". CNET. June 8, 2005.
- ^ Patrick Klepek (21 June, 2005). "Nintendo Remaking Classics". 1up.com.
{{cite news}}: Check date values in:|date=(help) - ^ "Miyamoto and Iwata Talk Revolution". IGN. July 25, 2005.
- ^ a b "E3 2006: Hudson Declares 100 Games for Wii". Retrieved 2006-05-13.
{{cite web}}: Unknown parameter|org=ignored (help) - ^ "Rare games for Nintendo Virtual Console?". Retrieved 2006-05-07.
{{cite web}}: Unknown parameter|org=ignored (help) - ^ "Live From E3: Fun Wii Facts Confirmed". Retrieved 2006-05-13.
{{cite web}}: Unknown parameter|org=ignored (help) - ^ "A help screen for Bonk". Retrieved 2006-05-13.
{{cite web}}: Unknown parameter|org=ignored (help) - ^ "Nintendo Wii Virtual Console Images". Retrieved 2006-05-13.
{{cite web}}: Unknown parameter|org=ignored (help) - ^ "Revolution to support external HDDs & other 3rd party storage devices". Joystiq. March 29, 2006.
