Nintendo Switch Won't Have the Virtual Console at Launch

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Cue the sad trombone: The Nintendo Switch's iteration of the Virtual Console won't be ready when the console launches on March 3. But let's be honest, we knew in our heart of hearts the Virtual Console wouldn't be seeing the Switch out the door on launch day.

Nintendo verified our inner whispers of doubt in a press release distributed earlier today. "Virtual Console games will not be available on Nintendo Switch at launch," it said. "We will share more information in the future."

Nintendo did confirm that racing game FAST RMX and Shovel Knight (with the new Specter Knight content) will be available at launch, so your hungry soul won't be bereft of games by any means. You just won't be able to download the original Super Mario Bros for the twentieth time.

Seems like the Switch is going to be pretty bare-bones at launch, which isn't surprising: The Wii U lacked a Virtual Console at launch, too. Nobody wants to hear that the Switch is following in the Wii U's footsteps, but in this instance, the Switch probably won't suffer in the long-term. There's certainly enough hype for the system that Joe Fencesitter is unlikely to find a console before Christmas (whereas the hardcore Nintendo set wants their Zelda machine), and Nintendo should have several vital system updates in place by then.

Key word here: "Should."

Be sure to check out Mike's excellent physical breakdown of the Switch!