According to a Twitter source, it has been discovered that Nintendo might be renaming its online “eShop” to Nintendo Switch Online Shop. eShop as most of you may already know is the digital distribution service powered by the Nintendo Network for the Nintendo 3DS, Wii U and Nintendo Switch. It is the go-to place for people looking to purchase video games for their Nintendo Switch online.
Nintendo may rename eShop to Nintendo Switch Online Shop (NSO)
The tweet in question points out an ongoing lawsuit by Nintendo directed towards a party that is allegedly pirating and selling Nintendo Software. In the legal documents concerning this case, an interesting piece of text was found that states, “Nintendo Switch users can purchase games either digitally from the official Nintendo Switch Online shop (formerly known as eShop) or in physical copies on cartridges specifically manufactured for use with the Nintendo Switch console”
Read the full text in the tweet below
Nintendo is suing someone for selling systems with pirated software. What's interesting is some of the wording in the paperwork mentioning the eShop being renamed. https://t.co/F9BfdpgHoM pic.twitter.com/GzKuxqmfz7
— Spawn Wave (@SpawnWaveMedia) December 13, 2018
Naturally, a question arises as to what does it mean to say “formerly known as eShop”. People have since speculated that one possible explanation could be that Nintendo has planned on renaming their online shop in the near future and for the sake of legal authenticity mentioned the future name of the shop as the legal proceedings may stretch out to a longer period of time.
As to what warrants the name change at all, nobody seems to have a clear understanding as of right now, however, in my opinion, it could be that Nintendo thinks “eShop” does not carry the Nintendo branding in its name whereas “Nintendo Switch Online Shop” clearly has the name of their popular handheld console in the name. This could be a probable reason behind their decision to rename but still, it is mostly speculation so take it with a pinch of salt.
Nintendo is yet to make an announcement or issue a response to the questions but I think that if the online shop is indeed going to be renamed we will hear about it soon. Perhaps in January next year when the next Nintendo Direct is expected.
Moreover, you can read the legal document here in its entirety if you are interested.
Let me know in the comments what you make of all of this.