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Nintendo's decision to retire the NES Classic left many fans disgruntled. The system, a reimagined version of the iconic 80s console, was a hit last Christmas -- for those that could buy one, that is. Stock problems meant it was notoriously difficult to acquire, and rather than solve these supply issues, Nintendo decided to kill the product completely. While frustrating, there could be a silver lining: Eurogamer reports that a 'SNES Mini' is in the works. Citing anonymous sources, it says the new hardware is scheduled to drop this holiday season, and that development is already underway.
For now, file this story under 'rumorville.' Eurogamer has a solid track record when it comes to Nintendo scoops, however. It successfully nailed the Nintendo Switch concept last summer, calling it a "portable, handheld console with detachable controllers." A SNES Mini would make sense too given the overwhelming popularity of the NES Classic. The widespread nostalgia for the system, combined with its comprehensive library, made it a tempting, borderline impulse purchase at $60. The 16-bit SNES is an equally iconic system that played host to beloved games such as Super Mario World, Chrono Trigger and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past.
A Christmas release would also give Nintendo a sure-fire hit for the holiday season. The bulk of its business, of course, now rests on the Nintendo Switch, and ensuring it's an attractive system for players new and old. Super Mario Odyssey is due this holiday, but should that game slip into 2017, the SNES Mini could be a handy fall-back to keep the Nintendo faithful happy. It begs the question though: If you could guarantee one game for the system, what would it be? Super Mario Kart gets my vote...