Nintendo Switch news: Nintendo representative explains console's name; device to have GameCube Virtual Console support

Although Nintendo doesn't plan to reveal many details about the Switch until next month, a spokesperson from the company recently shared insights on the meaning behind the hybrid hardware's name.

According to reports, the latest issue of the Japanese "Nintendo Dream" magazine features an interview with a Nintendo representative explaining that "Switch" has different meanings. "We decided that this name would be the best fit for our product for two reasons," the representative said and added, "It represents one of the defining features of the Switch, the ability to seamlessly 'switch' between the TV screen and Switch's screen, while also embodying the idea of being a 'switch' that will flip, and change the way people experience entertainment in their daily lives."

On another note, multiple sources tell Eurogamer that Nintendo Switch users will be able to play GameCube games through its Virtual Console service. GameCube support has reportedly completed its testing phase, and three Nintendo games have already been lined up for Switch. The said games are "Luigi's Mansion," "Super Mario Sunshine," and "Super Smash Bros. Melee." Also currently being tested for a possible release is a version of the GameCube Animal Crossing.

As for the console's hardware, the publication's sources claim that NERD (Nintendo European Research and Development) is the studio tasked to work on the Nintendo Switch's Virtual Console. NERD is also the team behind the recent NES Mini micro-console which was immediately sold out in several shops ahead of the holiday season.

The Nintendo Switch is scheduled to be released in March 2017. More details about the portable console's price and specs, as well as its exact launch date, will be revealed at a private event to be held for investors and media in January 2017.