The long-running Japanese variety show Game Center CX has officially updated its classification rules, confirming that the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii are now considered “retro” consoles. The decision, announced following a livestream broadcast on August 23, 2026, allows these platforms to be featured in future segments of the program.
Host Shinya Arino, known as “Chief” to the show's audience, finalized the decision after consulting both staff and viewers. The program traditionally categorizes retro hardware as any system released more than 20 years ago. As both the PS3 and Wii have reached this two-decade milestone, the production team sought input on whether to integrate them into the show's format.
Quick Facts
- Final Decision: The ban on PS3 and Wii games was officially lifted by host Shinya Arino.
- Viewer Sentiment: A final poll conducted during the August 2026 livestream showed 80% of 17,000 respondents supported the inclusion of these consoles.
- Testing Phase: Arino performed test-plays of Wii Fit, New Super Mario Bros. Wii, and Dark Souls during the broadcast to evaluate the transition.
- Stated Goal: The move is intended to help the program attract younger viewers and new fans in their 20s.
The show's shift mirrors recent industry discussions regarding the definition of retro hardware. Earlier this year, in March 2026, retailer GameStop issued a statement classifying the PS3, Xbox 360, and Nintendo Wii U as retro, citing the passage of time and technical changes in modern gaming as the primary factors.