Backward Compatibility

In the latest Requiem, Nintendojo follows the path of backward compatibility.

Imagine plugging an N64 cartridge into GameCube, or your NES controller into SNES. While it would be nice, a generation gap of software and hardware makes it physically impossible. Cartridge shapes change and so do pin connectors; controllers require more new buttons with each generation. Simply put, it’s physically impossible. Until now. Wii plays GameCube discs, uses GameCube memory cards and even GameCube controllers.

In the past you’d have to keep your old console connected in order to continue playing last-gen games. This put a strain on power outlets and space. No longer is this the case. Next-gen Wii reads last-gen GameCube discs, to say nothing of the removal of physical media altogether via Virtual Console. All your favorite Nintendo games are back again on one console.

Memory cards were relatively unnecessary until the switch from cartridges to read-only optical discs. While PS2 uses the same slot, memory cards are still in two formats. Why did Nintendo make their latest and greatest Memory Card 1019 white? White matches no other GameCube hardware, but Wii comes in white and uses GameCube memory cards. With SD card support in addition to internal flash memory, Wii owners may already have enough memory media and not need to buy any new.

Nobody relishes the idea of buying three new controllers beyond the one that’s usually bundled with the system. While necessary to enjoy multiplayer games, good quality controllers are expensive. The only physical controller ports Wii has are last-gen, GameCube controller ports. You can always use less buttons, but you can’t use more than you’ve got. GameCube controllers have all the necessary buttons to play all the past Nintendo games from NES to N64. WaveBird, arguably the best controller ever, can plug in its wireless receiver next to its corded brethren, and may even be supported internally.

From games to memory media and controllers, Wii bridges the generation gap. It makes sense from a manufacturing standpoint and is also beneficial to the end consumer; Nintendo doesn’t have to make as many new components and consumers don’t have to buy as many! Instead, we can both invest our time and money in that which is new by necessity. Though the system itself may become physically obsolete, GameCube lives on through the unprecedented carry-over of its software and hardware.
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