Nintendo Revives Retro SNES Look with Switch CRT Filter

Classic Games Get Authentic Visual Treatment

Nintendo is bringing the nostalgic glow of old-school television screens to its modern console. A new CRT filter for the Nintendo Switch aims to replicate the scanlines and visual artifacts characteristic of Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) gameplay.

Recreating the Classic Viewing Experience

Modern displays often reveal the raw pixel art of retro games, sometimes detracting from their original aesthetic. This new filter meticulously reintroduces elements like scanlines and softening effects, designed to faithfully recreate the viewing experience of playing on a CRT television.

Many enthusiasts find that achieving the authentic retro look requires physically acquiring and positioning older CRT televisions. The scarcity and increasing value of these vintage displays make them difficult and expensive to obtain.

Easy Access for Subscribers

Subscribers to Nintendo’s online services can now easily activate this feature. By navigating to the settings within the classic SNES application, players can toggle the CRT filter on or off, offering a choice in how they experience their favorite classic titles.

The impact of the filter is subtle, catering to those who appreciate the nuances of retro graphics. For instance, players can now revisit titles like Mario Paint with this enhanced visual option.

Enhanced Across Nintendo Platforms

While a similar CRT filter is available for the original Nintendo Switch, the updated version on the next-generation console reportedly offers a superior visual presentation. The filter is also available for Super Nintendo 64 and GameCube titles through online subscription packages.

The resurgence of interest in retro gaming is significant. As of 2023, the global retro gaming market was valued at approximately $1.3 billion, demonstrating a strong consumer appetite for authentic gaming experiences (Statista).