Nintendo console emulators like Dolphin, My Boy!, and Snes9xEX+ are some of the best apps on the Play Store. As Android gaming phones get more powerful, running classic Nintendo games has never been easier. But once again, Nintendo is cracking down on Switch emulator forks like Yuzu and Ryujinx. Instead of stopping emulation, these actions only bring more attention to it, making the scene even stronger.
Nintendo’s Battle Against Emulation Feeds the Fire
With the Nintendo Switch 2 trailer recently released, it’s no surprise that Nintendo is going after Switch emulators. Earlier in 2024, the creators of Yuzu settled a $2 million lawsuit with Nintendo. But that didn’t stop the emulator from spreading—within a week, developers created over 8,000 new versions.
This situation is similar to the Hydra from mythology—a creature that grows two heads for every one that gets cut off. Emulation works the same way. Since it is based on open-source technology, stopping one project doesn’t stop the entire community. Passionate developers worldwide keep finding new ways to continue their work.
Nintendo’s Legal Moves Come at a Cost
Nintendo has a long history of aggressively protecting its games. It has taken legal action against ROM-sharing websites and emulator developers like Dolphin. While these moves help protect Nintendo’s profits, they also create problems.
One major issue is that emulation isn’t just about piracy. Many gamers use emulators for reasons Nintendo ignores, such as:
- Preserving old games: A 2018 study found that 87% of classic games are no longer available to buy. Emulation helps keep these games alive.
- Playing on modern devices: Older consoles don’t always work with new TVs. Emulators allow people to play their favorite classics on modern hardware.
- Enhancing games: Emulation lets players improve games with 4K resolution, smoother frame rates, and custom mods, making old titles feel new again.
Instead of recognizing these benefits, Nintendo continues to fight emulation as if it’s only about piracy.
Nintendo is Missing an Opportunity
Nintendo could take a different approach. Instead of trying to shut down emulation, it could work with the community. Many companies, like Bethesda, support modding and fan projects. If Nintendo embraced emulation, it could:
- Gain goodwill from fans
- Ensure classic games are preserved
- Allow players to modify and improve their favorite titles
By offering official emulators and supporting game preservation, Nintendo could maintain its legacy without alienating its fanbase. Until then, the emulation scene will keep growing, no matter how hard Nintendo tries to stop it.