BBC segment on retro gaming puts NES game in SNES, sparking online reactions

On a recent episode of the BBC's morning show in the UK, a segment explored the growing popularity of the retro gaming market in Britain. Primarily focusing on older console hardware and games from the 1980s and 1990s, retro gaming boasts a vibrant global community centered on nostalgia, community, and video games from a bygone era.

The segment included Nick Poole OBE, the CEO of Ukie, the trade body for the UK's video games and interactive entertainment industry. He was there to discuss retro gaming; however, the online discussion and feedback on the segment were focused squarely on a decision made by the BBC's breakfast team.

As part of a visual display of retro gaming hardware and games for the segment, the BBC thought it would be a good idea to put an NES cartridge for Super Mario Bros. in a Super Nintendo. Can the 16-bit SNES play 8-bit NES games? No, which is why it caused some viewers to call it a crime.

Now, with backward compatibility an expected feature of modern consoles, the Nintendo Switch 2 can play original Switch games, it's understandable how someone not versed in the world of retro video games might think that the SNES should be able to play games from its predecessor.

Of course, it was a simple mistake, but it did lead to the Ukie releasing a statement that confirmed its representatives who took part did notice the problem, but were unable to fix it in time for the broadcast. "The studio team set up the in-studio display independently and handled the placement of the consoles - unfortunately, we couldn't adjust it whilst on air," the statement to VGC reads.

On the plus side, the mistake did help the segment's purpose, which was to bring attention to retro gaming. So, win? "Many popular modern titles take direct inspiration from retro games, proving the past continues to shape the future of play," the Ukie says. "From iconic arcade cabinets to cherished home consoles, retro gaming is now a thriving part of the UK's creative economy, preserving cultural heritage, driving community events, and inspiring the next generation of creators."