Nintendo to Remove Retro Game from Switch Online in Japan for the First Time, Sparks Debate

“The removal of Super Formation Soccer raises concerns about the long-term access to retro titles on subscription services, leaving fans questioning the future of digital ownership.” – Gaming Industry Analyst

In an unexpected move, Nintendo has announced that it will be delisting Super Formation Soccer (known as Super Soccer in the US) from the Nintendo Switch Online service in Japan on March 28. This marks the first time a game will be removed from the subscription-based service’s retro library, raising questions about the permanence of titles available to subscribers.

While Super Formation Soccer will no longer be available in Japan, Nintendo has made it clear that the game will remain on the Switch Online service in other regions, including North America and Europe. This suggests that the removal may be due to regional licensing issues, as the game’s rights appear to be owned by Spike Chunsoft in Japan, while Nintendo holds the publishing rights for the international versions.

The reasons behind the removal are still unclear, and Nintendo has not provided a detailed explanation. However, fans and gaming industry figures have been vocal about the change. Legendary game designer Hideki Kamiya expressed his frustration on social media, suggesting the move highlights the problems with subscription services. “Hey hey hey… I guess subscriptions are no good after all,” Kamiya tweeted. “Seriously, bring back the Virtual Console.” This echoes ongoing concerns from fans who long for the days of the Wii, Wii U, and 3DS Virtual Console, where users could keep purchased titles permanently, even after they were delisted.

As digital game libraries continue to evolve, questions surrounding the longevity of retro content on subscription services like Nintendo Switch Online are becoming more prominent. The removal of Super Formation Soccer has sparked a wider debate about the risks of digital ownership and the impact on retro gaming access in the long term.

For now, Nintendo subscribers outside Japan can continue to enjoy the game, but with the future of other retro titles uncertain, gamers may be left wondering if more delistings will follow.