There has been much debate surrounding whether Welcome Tour should have been included as a pack-in title for the Switch 2. From my perspective, it doesn’t need to be bundled with the console. The crux of the matter is that the game does not significantly enhance the gaming experience for players, making a packaged inclusion unnecessary. If individuals are vocal about wanting it as a pack-in title, it stands to reason that they are genuinely interested enough in the game to pay for it if they find it appealing.
Historically, games like Mario Kart Wii and Nintendo Land were designed to showcase the unique features of their respective consoles, such as motion controls and asymmetric gameplay. These titles were instrumental in demonstrating what the hardware could do. In contrast, Welcome Tour does not serve this purpose. Most players will already be aware of the mechanics involved or won't need to understand them to enjoy the Switch 2. Essentially, if players are only interested in receiving something for free, or if they are genuinely captivated by the mini-games, the question of whether it should be bundled falls by the wayside.
When it comes to the decision of whether to include Welcome Tour as a pack-in, pricing plays a crucial role. It's important to note that pricing is determined by the principles of supply and demand, rather than just production costs. Nintendo could have easily included this title without raising the price of the console, provided they believed it would enhance sales and profitability. The fact that they chose to sell it separately indicates that they likely did not see a significant economic benefit in bundling it with the Switch 2.
The reality is that Welcome Tour might not drive hardware sales, and Nintendo seems confident that consumers are willing to pay a modest price for what is essentially an instructional experience. While many players may have fond memories of titles like Wii Sports, which showcased motion controls, the demand for Welcome Tour appears to be less compelling. If players are truly interested in this demo, it raises the question of why they would want it for free. Interest in the game does not necessarily imply that it should be bundled with the console.
Ultimately, whether or not Welcome Tour should be a pack-in title is subjective. Some players may find it valuable enough to warrant inclusion, while others may not see it as a deal-breaker. It’s a game that primarily consists of trivia and facts, which may not significantly influence a consumer's decision to purchase a Switch 2. It’s essential to respect differing opinions on this matter, as everyone has their unique perspective on what they consider worth paying for in the gaming experience.
