Nintendo announced the SNES Classic Edition yesterday, much to fans' delight. However, as pre-orders for the console go live, would-be buyers in Europe are discovering that their version of the console is a lot different.

The SNES Classic Edition is powered via USB, which is a nice innovation. But unfortunately, the European version of the console does not come with the mains adapter for the console. This means that those who buy one are unable to play it unless they already own a mains USB adapter or if they choose to purchase one separately.

Admittedly, this lack of important hardware will not be a problem for most. As most smartphones these days include USB adapters, the SNES Classic Edition would likely work with one of these. Though many disgruntled European fans argue that this isn't the point: the United States version of the console includes an adapter, so why doesn't the European version?

SNES Classic Edition pre-order guide

They also argue that this will lead to unnecessary confusion, particularly from those who aren't in the know or do not own a smartphone. They will think the console is ready to be played out of the box, only to find that this isn't the case. The New Nintendo 3DS suffers from the same problem – its charger must be purchased separately, which regularly leads to problems for parents with upset children.

Adding to the frustration is the fact that Nintendo itself has not explained why the European version is different. But some have suggested that this has been done to ensure that production levels are kept high. Nintendo has promised to produce more units of the SNES Classic than it did of the NES Classic, which suffered from significant stock shortages. With that in mind, perhaps by eliminating adapters it can make make more units of the console and do it faster too. European plugs (especially UK ones) are bulkier than those in the United States, so Nintendo may have gotten rid of them to save money with the console's packaging.

super famicon classic edition

It should be noted that this isn't the only regional difference, as the Japanese version of the system comes with different games. Additionally, both the Japanese and European SNES Classic Editions have a more-rounded design and more colorful controllers compared to the United States release.

These differences may be delightful for those who prefer one set of games (or one design) over the other, but it could also lead to the SNES Classic Edition becoming a collectible item. Prices for the console are already sky-high on sites like eBay, and these differences may only make it worse.

The Super NES Classic releases on September 29, 2017 in North America and Europe. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Classic Mini Super Famicom will arrive in Japan on October 5, 2017.