Nearly six years have passed since the groundbreaking release of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and with the arrival of the highly anticipated 3.0 update, players were eager for fresh and exciting features. While the update introduces numerous improvements and additions, one feature — the return of playable, emulated Nintendo consoles — stands out as both the most anticipated and the biggest disappointment.
The Exciting Return of Nintendo Consoles in Animal Crossing 3.0
One of the most nostalgic aspects of classic Animal Crossing games was the ability to play emulated NES games through in-game retro consoles, first seen in the original Animal Crossing on the GameCube. This beloved feature was mysteriously absent in subsequent titles until it finally made a comeback in the 3.0 update for New Horizons.
This update introduces seven different Nintendo systems for players to discover and enjoy, including the Famicom, Famicom Disk System, NES, Game Boy, Super Famicom, and SNES. Each system allows players to experience a different classic game, bringing a sense of retro charm to the modern Animal Crossing world. However, despite this exciting promise, the selection and implementation fall short of expectations.
Underwhelming Game Selection on Emulated Consoles
The lineup of games available on these consoles within Animal Crossing 3.0 includes:
- Famicom: Clu Clu Land
- Famicom Disk System: Ice Hockey
- NES: Ice Climber
- Game Boy: Dr. Mario
- Super Famicom: Panel de Pon (known as Tetris Attack in the West)
- SNES: F-Zero
While some titles like F-Zero, Panel de Pon, and Dr. Mario offer a fun throwback experience, others like Ice Climber and Clu Clu Land are more obscure choices that don’t resonate as strongly with the majority of players. The selection notably lacks many of Nintendo’s most beloved classics such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and Donkey Kong. These fan favorites are staples in Nintendo’s history and would have made the retro console feature far more engaging.
The disappointment stems in part from the missed opportunity to showcase Nintendo’s greatest hits. Although some RPGs and extensive games might feel out of place inside Animal Crossing, including a few iconic titles would have enhanced player enjoyment and nostalgia.
The Controversial Nintendo Switch Online Paywall
Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of this feature is the requirement to have an active Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscription to access these retro games within Animal Crossing. This subscription gate means players cannot freely enjoy the nostalgic experience unless they are subscribed to NSO, even though these games are emulated and arguably standalone.
Nintendo’s reasoning likely ties to the general policy requiring a subscription to play emulated classic games on the Switch platform. However, fans argue that limiting access to just six underwhelming titles in Animal Crossing while mandating a subscription is unnecessarily restrictive and diminishes the excitement around this addition.
This strategy may alienate players who were hoping the consoles would be a simple, free bonus feature. Instead, it feels like a missed marketing opportunity where the inclusion of more popular games — accessible without added barriers — could have drawn more attention to Nintendo Switch Online and enhanced overall player satisfaction.
Other Highlights of Animal Crossing 3.0
Despite the letdown surrounding the retro Nintendo consoles, the 3.0 update brings plenty of exciting content that players have warmly received. The introduction of the Resort Hotel is a notable new feature, allowing players to invite friends and enjoy multiplayer experiences on the charming Slumber Islands.
Additionally, the update adds fresh collaborative items and villagers, giving players new ways to customize their islands and engage with the community. These enhancements make the 3.0 update a significant milestone for Animal Crossing, even if some features fall short of expectations.
Conclusion
The 3.0 update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons is undoubtedly a critical milestone that injects fresh life into the beloved game. However, the return of the in-game Nintendo consoles, which should have been the crown jewel of this update, ultimately stands as a significant disappointment. The lackluster game selection paired with the NSO paywall leaves many players feeling the feature is more wasted potential than a true celebration of Nintendo’s rich legacy.
Nonetheless, the update offers many other transformative features that enrich the Animal Crossing experience. Whether you enjoy lounging in the Resort Hotel or exploring new multiplayer adventures, there’s plenty to appreciate. We hope future updates continue to expand on the retro console concept with better games and more accessible play.
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