[fredleblanc]

I've always found the virtual console a place where Nintendo could do better. I want to buy a license to a game and have it follow me as I upgrade to new (Nintendo-made) hardware.

For example, I have Kid Icarus via the Wii Virtual Console, and Mega Man on the 3DS Virtual Console. Why can't I play those in both places? Why do I have to pay _another_ $5 to play Mega Man on the Wii U? Especially now that Nintendo's online account stuff has shaped up to be pretty good. I'm not even sure if I can play the Wii-purchased Kid Icarus through my Wii U… or do I have to load up the Wii virtual console and then download it onto there? (That I haven't checked.)

I don't need all 700 games to be happy, but for $5 per game — for something that we know is basically just an emulator/ROM, I feel like I shouldn't get penalized for continuing up the upgrade path within the company.

[james-skemp]

I understand the multiple buying is because, unlike Microsoft and Sony, they never really invested in their online network to support this.

[JonathonW]

The Wii U shop knows what VC games you've already purchased for Wii, because it offers upgrade pricing for most of them. And there are a few games out there that do cross-buy between the Wii U and 3DS shops.

The multiple purchase issue is a strategic/marketing issue, not a technical one.

[fredleblanc]

I suppose this makes sense for the average person, as most people probably don't understand how to use emulators and what not. Oh well.