Virtual Console secrets

CVG has interviewed Nintendo about the eagerly-anticipated Virtual Console. The information is a mix of the old and new, but offers a comprehensive look at how the retro-fans dream will work.

- As well as Wii’s 512MB internal memory or SD cards. Any VC games on SD cards will be locked to the console they were downloaded on, so you can’t take them round to your mate’s house.

- The console stores a history of all your downloads so that if you have to delete any Virtual Console games, you can re-download them for free at a later date. If your console breaks and you lose your VC games, Nintendo will offer support to help Wii owners recover their games.

- GameCube games can only be played with GameCube controllers, so they will not work with the Classic Controller. If using two Classic Controller, these will be automatically assigned to players one and two, regardless of how many GameCube pads are plugged in.

- All Virtual Console games can be played with the Classic Controller or GameCube controller. The Wii Remore can be turned on its side and used as a NES pad, but obviously will not use the motion-sensing or analogue stick.

- Each Virtual Console game will come with a digital instruction manual

- Regions will apply to Virtual Console games. The European Virtual Console will only be available to European Machines. Imported American machines must connect to the American service and use America Wii points, but this will also void the warranty.

- Initially, only 2000-point cards will be available

- Wii Points can be bought via the Wii Shop with all major credit cards. Points will be stored on your individual account, and is limited to a total of 10,000.