Nintendo to release SNES Mini to 'console' anyone who missed out on the NES Classic

The NES Classic is dead. Long live the SNES Mini!

Nintendo is rumoured to be planning a SNES retro console in time for Christmas, after confirming that the NES Classic that proved so unexpectedly popular last year has definitely been discontinued.

That, at least, is what Eurogamer claims. It cites anonymous sources suggesting that Nintendo is preparing to have the console, which likely will be called the 'Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System', on shelves in time for Christmas this year.

This upcoming SNES Mini is also the reason for the discontinuation of the hackable NES Classic console, according to the report, along with ongoing production problems and stock shortages.

Nintendo announced plans to discontinue the popular miniature console last week. In a statement, it said that the last shipments of the NES Classic would be shipped this month - despite pent-up demand for the product, which has quickly sold out.

In a statement, it said: "We encourage anyone interested in obtaining this system to check with retail outlets regarding availability.

"We understand that it has been difficult for many consumers to find a system, and for that we apologise. We have paid close attention to consumer feedback, and we greatly appreciate the incredible level of consumer interest and support for this product."

Nintendo has since said that it never intended for the NES Mini to become a permanent feature in its product line, nor did they expect it to become such a highly sought-after item, especially after the Christmas rush.

The company has yet to comment on talk of an upcoming SNES Mini console, though.

If one is in the works, it would almost certainly be expected to ship with a number of Nintendo's classic lineup of SNES games and, learning from the NES Classic experience, might feature internet connectivity so that additional games from the SNES back-catalogue could be downloaded.

The reality of a SNES mini is certainly exciting. While the NES was unique for being Nintendo's first home console, the SNES arguably boasts the better software line-up, including the NES-trumping Super Mario World, Chrono Trigger and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past.

If it's out in time for Christmas, it could well out-sell the Nintendo Switch.