The virtual console has been one of the greatest assets of the Nintendo Wii. For a relatively small effort, Nintendo can offer titles from its (and others) enormous back catalog. Unfortunately, it's not always as simple as snapping one's fingers and being instantaneously granted a pixelated comfort game. Hurdles such as legal issues and marketing decisions can keep one waiting with bated breath for the chance to relive their childhood. Plus, there's always the fact that Nintendo seemingly has no rhyme or reason as to when they release games, and more interestingly, where they are available. With a few exceptions (We've got Cruisin' USA! Take that!), the rest of the world's Virtual Console library seems to be missing key titles that are available in Japan. This includes both former world-wide releases and games that never made it to the other regions.
Entering the Wii Shop Channel on my brother's Japanese console, I immediately downloaded Mega Man for the NES. I hope he didn't mind! Though the US and other regions are likely to get the game soon, other titles might not be so lucky. Some have been sitting on the Japanese Virtual Console shelf for weeks, months, even more than a year without any indication of when and if they will grace us with their presence. Thus, if you want to get your hands on Castlevania Dracula X: Rondo of Blood, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Star, or Tetris Attack, you might need to consider a relocation.
