no way nintendo A pending trademark update for “VirtualConsole” has caught the attention of gamers. Nintendo hasn't confirmed anything, but this latest trademark update has led to speculation in the community that the Virtual Console will make a return. But there's a chance that trademark news isn't that important.
Before the introduction of Nintendo Switch Online on the original Switch, Nintendo offered a virtual console as a way to purchase classic games. The service, which started with the Wii in 2006, allows gamers to purchase games from older consoles and download them to newer hardware. Virtual Console was later released on Nintendo 3DS in 2011 and Wii U in 2013. Unfortunately, Virtual Console has been discontinued on all platforms, leaving players eager for its return on Switch and Switch 2.
Nintendo Branded Spark Virtual Console Guess
Recent news of a new brand has some gamers hoping that the beloved feature will return. As discovered by Mike Odyssey on Twitter, a Nintendo trademark called “VirtualConsole” is pending. It's worth noting that Nintendo of America has filed other trademarks for Virtual Console in the past, but this latest one doesn't appear to have been renewed. This has led to speculation that Nintendo may be planning some sort of revival of the service. However, it should be noted that nothing has been confirmed by the company and that this trademark is merely a means of protecting the name.
Nintendo currently appears to be focusing on bringing classic games to players through its Nintendo Switch Online service. Unlike Virtual Console, NSO is a subscription-based model that can offer good value depending on how many retro titles gamers want to play. Initially, the service's selection was relatively limited, but it has expanded to offer games on more consoles, and recently added the GameCube to its expansion pack lineup with the launch of the Switch 2. Given Nintendo's focus on NSO, bringing back Virtual Console in the current environment could create competition for subscription services.
Nonetheless, some believe that Virtual Console and Nintendo Switch Online can coexist in the same ecosystem. Having the option to purchase and keep classic Nintendo games is an option that many nostalgic fans hope to return to in the future.
Time will tell whether the Virtual Console will appear on Nintendo's hybrid system. However, if this trademark development is nothing more than a legal oversight by Nintendo, fans should temper their expectations. That said, given that there are a lot of people who own a Switch or Switch 2, it appears there will be a large audience that would prefer the Virtual Console if it were to come back.
- brand
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nintendo
- original release date
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June 5, 2025
- Original MSRP (USD)
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$449.99
- operating system
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ownership
- solve
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1080p (portable) / 4K (docked)
- HDR support
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yes
The successor to 2017's Nintendo Switch continues down the same path as its predecessor, offering a hybrid experience that supports both home and portable gaming. The basic Nintendo Switch 2 bundle, which launches on June 5, 2025 with games like Mario Kart World, comes with the console, Joy-Con 2, a strap for the controller, dock, AC adapter, HDMI cable, and Joy-Con 2 grip.
Source: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
