The Hidden NES Golf Game has Been Removed from the Nintendo Switch

Not long ago, Switch owners discovered that, by setting the console's clock to July 11 and pointing the 2 joycons forward in a chopping manner, a hidden emulation of the classic NES game, Golf, would be revealed. Fans concluded that this was implemented as a tribute to the late Satoru Iwata. In a recent firmware update, that emulated NES game easter egg was removed from the console.

While the (now temporary) inclusion of Golf was never clarified, many believed it to be relating to Nintendo's previous CEO, Iwata. Iwata was a major component of Nintendo's development, success, and image. His passing was felt by millions. He passed away on July 11, the date needed to activate the easter egg, and the hand motion you have to make is the same as Iwata's well known "direct to you" motion he would make during Nintendo Directs. Iwata was also involved with the development of NES Golf, as well as the Switch.

The removal of this feature is as mysterious as its inclusion. This game was a digital Omamari. A charm of good fortune, letting the spirits aid its holder. With the massive success of the Nintendo Switch, some believe that Iwata's guidance is no longer needed. This fits, since traditionally an Omamori only works for so long before also needing to be laid to rest.