
Sega and Nintendo Shift Focus Away from Miniature Consoles | Image Source: www.nintendolife.com
LOS ANGELES, 23 December 2024 – Fans of miniature game consoles may need to appreciate their current collections because ​Sega ​has made it clear that there are no new miniature consoles ​in the pipeline. This news comes ​directly from ​the CEO of Sega ​America and Europe Shuji Utsumi, who shared the company’s vision of ​embracing modern players rather than focusing on retro-inspired products. In an interview ​with The Guardian, Utsumi said Sega ​values its legacy but aims to expect to offer innovative gaming experiences.
“I’m not going ​to the Mini Address. I want to embrace modern players,” said Utsumi.
“We are not a retro company. We really appreciate ​our legacy, we appreciate it, but at the same time we want to deliver something ​new – otherwise we will become history. That’s not what we’re ​looking for.”
According to Sega, this change represents a strategic way out of his previous ​adventures, such as the Sega Mega Drive / Genesis Mini 2 ​released in 2022, which had loved titles such as Sonic CD and Streets of ​Rage 3.
The end ​of the miniature console age
The trend of the miniature console that gained popularity at the ​end of 2010 seems to be close ​to its ​conclusion. Nintendo, another key player in the retro game ​market, also seems ​to have abandoned its mini console. After ​the release of ​the NES Classic Mini ​in 2016 and the SNES ​Classic Mini in 2017, the company changed its orientation to its Nintendo Switch Online service. This subscription-based model offers access to ​classic games from NES, SNES, Mega Drive, N64, Game Boy and Game Boy ​Advance libraries. According to ​industry analysts, this approach is consistent with the growing preference for digital ​and cloud services in modern games.
New address for Sega
According ​to ​its innovation objective, Sega has explored new opportunities, including the possibility of launching its own subscription gaming service. Earlier this year, ​Sega ​removed the SEGA Mega ​Drive Classics collection from the main platforms, including the Nintendo Switch eShop. This decision raised eyebrows between ​fans and industry experts, speculating ​on the company’s ​plans ​for ​its ​retro game catalogue. While Utsumi ​confirmed that Sega was “evaluating” its options in ​this space, no specific advertising was made. This ​movement indicates Sega’s ​intention to modernize its offers and ​remain competitive in ​the changing game landscape.
The legacy ​of miniature consoles
Despite their short-term production cycles, miniature consoles such ​as NES Classic ​Mini, SNES Classic Mini and ​Sega Mega Drive / Genesis Mini have ​left an indelible mark on the game culture. These devices offer a nostalgic experience by reviving classic titles in a compact and user-friendly format. They also served as a gateway for younger generations to explore the history of the game. ​However, as The Guardian pointed out, high production costs and logistical problems ​related to equipment manufacturing have probably ​contributed to the reduction of this niche.
Trends in Modern Game
The shift from the gaming industry to digital platforms reflects broader consumer trends. Subscription services such as Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus and Nintendo Switch ​Online have become increasingly popular, providing players with access to large ​libraries without physical hardware. According ​to Sega, adaptation to these trends is ​essential to remain relevant. By focusing on modern players and offering innovative experiences, companies ​like Sega and Nintendo seek to secure their positions in a highly competitive market.
Consequences for players
While the ​absence of new miniature consoles ​may disappoint retro game lovers, the ​industry’s focus on digital services offers ​other opportunities. For example, subscription platforms can provide access to a wide range of classic titles, enhanced by modern features ​such as cloud saving and online multiplayer. In addition, ​Sega and Nintendo’s innovative approach could lead to the development of new ​games and technologies ​that redefine the gaming experience. According to ​experts, this transition underlines the importance of balancing nostalgia and progress in a rapidly changing industry.
As the game ​world progresses, players ​can expect ​a ​mix of nostalgia and innovation to configure their experiences. While ​miniature consoles may no longer be on the horizon, their legacy continues to inspire how gaming companies honour the past as they embrace the future.