Nintendo Switch online can't catch a break, though the constant controversy surrounding it is hardly unwarranted. The service has long been defined by its flaws, and the recent uproar brings another flaw to Nintendo Switch Online.
Nintendo's online service has never been very popular, especially since the late CEO Satoru Iwata strongly disagreed with fees for online play. However, the derision of Switch Online came more from dissatisfaction with the service itself, as fans have long reported a laggy online gaming experience. Switch Online's outdated network code is only the tip of the iceberg, as games available through the service (old Nintendo titles added via a drip channel) come there instead of the Virtual Console system that many fans would prefer.
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Nintendo Switch Online icons are confusing users
Recently, a number of NSO subscribers have been upset about Nintendo's online policies, especially regarding profile icons. NSO users can unlock new profile icons through Platinum Points, which can be earned by completing missions or through promotional/tournament prizes. However, purchasing these icons often requires a process that is difficult at best and bordering on Rube Goldberg at worst.
Switch Online's icon system is riddled with strange decisions
There were immediate issues with the icon process, which many Nintendo fans pointed out. First, the icon elements (character, background, and frame) are in the rotating 'Missions and Rewards' section of NSO, meaning each part is only available for a limited time.
This FOMO structure is way oversaturated in the current market and not particularly well suited for what should be a subscription benefit.
There's no reason why any icon element shouldn't be available forever, especially since Nintendo has little incentive to make impulse purchases; icons can only be purchased through platinum points, which cannot be purchased with real currency. Since the rotating elements can disappear for over a year, Nintendo may use this system to encourage continued NSO subscriptions – although icon availability is unlikely to be the deciding factor for any subscription renewal.
As for the platinum points, these low-cost collectibles only add to the problem of the rotating window display. Platinum points expire after six months, meaning fans will need to keep up with their quests. Fortunately, Nintendo offers a constant cycle of missions, so fans will have plenty of opportunities to rack up points. Regardless, it creates an inconvenience for an already paid service – one that already has its fair share of complications for customers.
NSO subscribers are frustrated by icon limitations
In March, Nintendo introduced icons related to Super Mario World and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Fans immediately noticed that there were some absurd restrictions attached to these icons, requiring fans to not only own the associated games, but to play them during the promotional period. Not only was it not retroactive, but in the event New Horizons, the rewards section required fans to “play on three separate days in the last 30 days, leaving at least 24 hours between each play session”.
These absurd provisions are hardly good for consumers, and many subscribers are beginning to voice their concerns. Reddit users like u/WhispyWhirl address these exact limitations with Animal Crossing: New Horizons become a major bogey. With a Switch successor on the horizon, Nintendo should rethink its entire online system. Not only should the online quality be fixed, but features like NSO games and icon elements should be simplified and improved for the customer.
Nintendo
- Date of establishment
- September 23, 1889
- Headquarters
- Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
- Parent company
- Nintendo
