Nintendo's upcoming hybrid console, the Nintendo Switch, will reportedly support GameCube games via Virtual Console, similar to how Nintendo's previous home console, the Wii U, emulated a number of systems, including the Nintendo 64.
The rumor comes at the heels of a recent leak suggesting USB-C charging for the console, along with the forecast of Skyrim and two new Mario titles as two of the console's launch games.
GameCube Virtual Console For The Switch
Three sources have confirmed to Eurogamer, frequent and often trustworthy provider of Switch info, that the Nintendo Switch will support GameCube emulation on its Virtual Console platform.
Furthermore, GameCube emulation on the Switch has apparently been tested already and is in working condition. Three GameCube games have also been successfully ported to the Switch. These games are Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion and Super Smash Bros. Melee.
The GameCube version of Animal Crossing is also being tested for a possible release.
The emulation is reportedly being engineered by Nintendo European Research and Development, or NERD, the same people who developed the emulation behind the NES Classic Edition, a successful Nintendo re-release rapidly flying off the shelves.
Developing the Switch's GameCube emulation is well within NERD's depth, having previously developed the DS emulation on Wii U and having previously developed the technology that paved the way for downloadable Wii software on the Wii U eShop.
Previous Virtual Console Purchases Will Be Discounted
Other systems possibly supported by the switch via Virtual Console apart from the GameCube are still unknown, but according to Eurogamer, there will be an upgrade program in the vein of Wii U, where users who have already purchased Virtual Console NES games may repurchase it on the Switch for a slashed fee.
Other Nintendo Switch Rumors
Several reports have also hinted other details about the Switch that might not have been apparent in the console's reveal trailer. It's rumored to sport a 6.2-inch multi-touch display, the first for any Nintendo handheld. But what happens when the console is docked, thereby blocking the entire screen? Well, its controllers, named the JoyCon, will reportedly be embedded with infrared sensors to control the Switch's interface when in dock mode. If this rumor coincides with another rumor touting motion control inside the controllers, the Switch might also potentially emulate Wii games altogether.
The Nintendo Switch launches March 2017, with a kickoff event on Jan. 12, where technical details, pricing and launch games for the console will be revealed.
