Popular Retro Gaming Variety Show, Game Center CX, Lifts Ban On PS3 & Nintendo Wii Games

Determining what constitutes a retro game is a frequent topic of debate, often dividing fans and industry observers over whether a specific timeline or technical leap defines the era. For the Japanese retro gaming variety show GameCenter CX, hosted by Shinya Arino, the traditional definition centered on software developed for hardware released over twenty years ago. As both the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii approached their twentieth anniversaries, staff members debated whether titles from these platforms should finally be featured on the program.

To resolve the discussion, the show hosted a weekend livestream on YouTube incorporating staff perspectives and viewer polls. During the opening survey, approximately 14,000 viewers participated, with 71 percent voting to unlock the consoles, 13 percent preferring they remain restricted, and 16 percent expressing indifference. Chief Arino subsequently conducted test-play sessions with notable titles including Wii Fit, New Super Mario Bros. Wii, and the PlayStation 3 action RPG Demon's Souls (referenced in reports alongside Dark Souls).

Following the demonstration, a second survey involving 17,000 participants registered an even stronger response, with 80 percent supporting the policy change, 9 percent opting to keep the ban, and 11 percent remaining indifferent. Shinya Arino cast the final deciding vote to lift the ban, explaining that the move aims to attract new fans, including younger demographics such as viewers in their twenties. The decision officially reclassifies the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii software libraries as eligible for future episodes of the variety program.