Nintendo Confirms No Plans to Sell Retro Games Separately for Now
Nintendo Confirms No Plans to Sell Retro Games Separately
Following the surprise return of Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen on the Nintendo Switch, speculation quickly spread among fans. Many wondered whether this release signaled a shift toward selling classic retro titles individually, separate from Nintendo Switch Online. Nintendo has now addressed that question directly.
According to an updated FAQ on Nintendo’s official website, the company confirmed it has no current plans to sell retro games as standalone purchases on a broad scale. Instead, Nintendo will continue to focus on distributing classic titles through the Nintendo Switch Online app.
FireRed & LeafGreen Are a Special Case
Nintendo clarified that the release of Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen does not represent a new strategy. Rather, the launch serves as a special project tied to the franchise’s anniversary. Because of this, players should not expect other classic games from the NSO library to receive similar standalone releases.
Moreover, Nintendo also confirmed that FireRed & LeafGreen will not join the Nintendo Switch Online catalog in the future. Players who want to experience these titles must purchase them separately.
Why These Versions Are Different From NSO Games
Unlike standard retro titles on NSO, FireRed & LeafGreen operate as fully separate game releases. These versions do not rely on the NSO emulator app. Instead, they include added functionality such as direct local connectivity and full integration with Pokémon HOME for transferring Pokémon.
In contrast, NSO retro games function only within the subscription app and lack these expanded features. Because of this difference, Nintendo treats FireRed & LeafGreen as premium standalone products rather than part of its retro library.
What This Means for Retro Fans
For now, Nintendo’s stance remains clear. Classic games will stay tied to the Nintendo Switch Online service, aside from rare anniversary-driven exceptions. Players hoping for a full return of the Virtual Console model may need to wait much longer.
Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen launch on Nintendo Switch on February 27, with pre-orders already available via the eShop at USD-based regional pricing.
