What Are Amiibos?

Amiibos are NFC (Near Field Communication) figures created by Nintendo. These small figurines feature various Nintendo characters, such as Mario, Link, and Pikachu, as well as characters from other popular franchises like Animal Crossing and Splatoon. Amiibos serve as collectible toys, but they also have interactive features that can be used with Nintendo gaming consoles.

Each Amiibo has a unique chip embedded in its base, which allows it to communicate with compatible Nintendo consoles and games. When placed on the NFC reader of a compatible device, the Amiibo can unlock additional content, provide in-game enhancements, or even save game data.

Not only are Amiibos visually appealing, they also offer a new level of interactivity and customization to Nintendo gaming experiences. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking to add a little extra fun to your playtime or a dedicated collector wanting to complete your Amiibo collection, these figures offer a unique and enjoyable way to interact with your favorite Nintendo characters.

How do Amiibos work?

Amiibos work through a simple process of scanning and communication with compatible Nintendo devices. Each Amiibo figure contains a small NFC (Near Field Communication) chip, located in the base of the figure. When you place an Amiibo on the NFC reader of a compatible Nintendo console, such as the Nintendo Switch, Wii U, or Nintendo 3DS, the console detects the chip and establishes a connection.

Once the connection is established, the Amiibo can interact with supported games in various ways. The game recognizes the specific Amiibo figure and can unlock unique content, such as new levels, items, costumes, or even characters.

Furthermore, the Amiibo can store and transfer data between different devices. For example, in a game like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, you can use an Amiibo to invite a specific character to visit your in-game island. This data can then be stored on the Amiibo and taken to a friend’s console to have the character visit their island as well.

In addition to unlocking content, Amiibos can also provide in-game enhancements. For certain games, using an Amiibo might give your character a boost in stats, unlock exclusive weapons or abilities, or provide access to special challenges or customizations.

It’s worth noting that Amiibos are not just limited to one game. Many Amiibos have compatibility with multiple games, allowing you to enjoy their features in a variety of titles. Nintendo continuously releases updates and new games that support the use of Amiibos, ensuring that these little figurines continue to add value to your gaming experience.

How to use Amiibos with Nintendo Switch?

Using Amiibos with your Nintendo Switch is a straightforward and enjoyable process. The Nintendo Switch has built-in NFC capability, allowing it to easily recognize and interact with Amiibo figures. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Amiibos with your Nintendo Switch:

Ensure that your Nintendo Switch is powered on and the Joy-Con controllers are connected.
Locate the NFC touchpoint on your Nintendo Switch. On the standard Nintendo Switch model, the NFC touchpoint is located on the right Joy-Con controller. On the Nintendo Switch Lite, the NFC touchpoint is located on the right side of the console.
Position your Amiibo figure on the NFC touchpoint. Be sure to align the figure’s base with the touchpoint for a proper connection.
Wait for the Nintendo Switch to recognize the Amiibo. Once detected, you will see a prompt or indication on the screen confirming the recognition of the Amiibo. The specific action and content unlocked will vary depending on the game and the Amiibo.
Follow the on-screen instructions for using the Amiibo’s features in the game. This may include unlocking exclusive content, gaining access to special items or characters, or even saving in-game data to the Amiibo.
After using your Amiibo, you can either leave it on the NFC touchpoint or remove it. If you choose to remove it, simply lift it off the touchpoint carefully.

It’s important to note that not all Nintendo Switch games utilize Amiibo functionality. However, many popular titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, have extensive Amiibo support that enhances gameplay and provides unique experiences.

Using Amiibos with your Nintendo Switch adds an extra layer of excitement and customization to your gaming sessions. Whether you’re unlocking new outfits, accessing exclusive challenges, or enjoying in-game benefits, Amiibos bring your favorite characters to life in a whole new way on the Nintendo Switch platform.

How to use Amiibos with Nintendo Wii U?

The Nintendo Wii U is another gaming console that supports the use of Amiibo figures. If you own a Wii U and want to explore the interactive features of Amiibos, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use them with your console:

Ensure that your Nintendo Wii U is turned on and the Wii U GamePad is powered on and synced with the console.
Locate the NFC touchpoint on the Wii U GamePad. It is located on the front of the GamePad, just below the D-pad and to the left of the touch screen.
Place your Amiibo figure on the NFC touchpoint. Make sure to align the base of the figure with the touchpoint to establish a proper connection.
Wait for the Wii U GamePad to recognize the Amiibo. A prompt or indication will appear on the GamePad’s screen, confirming that the Amiibo has been detected. The specific action or content that is unlocked can vary depending on the game and Amiibo used.
Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the game to utilize the Amiibo’s features. This may involve unlocking new levels, characters, items, or accessing special in-game perks.
Once you have utilized the Amiibo’s features, you can either leave the figure on the NFC touchpoint or remove it. If you choose to remove it, simply lift it off the touchpoint carefully.

Not all Nintendo Wii U games make use of Amiibo functionality. However, popular titles like Super Mario Maker and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U offer extensive Amiibo support, allowing you to enhance your gaming experience and discover new content through the use of Amiibo figures.

Using Amiibos with your Nintendo Wii U opens up a world of interactive possibilities, providing you with a unique way to engage with your favorite Nintendo characters and games. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, Amiibos offer an exciting and personalized experience on the Wii U platform.

How to use Amiibos with Nintendo 3DS?

If you own a Nintendo 3DS handheld console and want to take advantage of the interactive features of Amiibo figures, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use them with your device:

Ensure that your Nintendo 3DS is powered on and the wireless feature is enabled.
Open your game that supports Amiibo functionality. Not all Nintendo 3DS games have Amiibo support, so make sure you have a compatible game.
Locate the NFC touchpoint on your console. On older models of the Nintendo 3DS, the NFC touchpoint is located on the bottom screen, below the main display. On the New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 2DS XL models, the NFC touchpoint is located on the lower touchscreen, on the right side.
Place your Amiibo figure on the NFC touchpoint. Ensure that the base of the Amiibo is aligned with the touchpoint for a proper connection.
Wait for the Nintendo 3DS to recognize the Amiibo. You will see a prompt or indication on the screen, confirming that the Amiibo has been recognized. The specific action or content unlocked can vary depending on the game and the Amiibo used.
Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the game to utilize the Amiibo’s features. This may involve accessing exclusive items, customizations, or additional gameplay elements.
Once you have utilized the Amiibo’s features, you can remove the figure from the NFC touchpoint. Simply lift it off carefully.

Using Amiibos with your Nintendo 3DS brings additional interactivity and enjoyment to your gaming sessions. Popular games like Animal Crossing: New Leaf and Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS offer extensive Amiibo support, providing unique experiences and opportunities to enhance your gameplay.

Whether you’re collecting your favorite characters, unlocking special items, or accessing additional features, Amiibos provide a fun and immersive way to engage with your Nintendo 3DS games. So grab your Amiibo figure and embark on new adventures in the palm of your hand!

What can Amiibos do in games?

Amiibos offer a range of exciting features and benefits when used in compatible games. While specific functionalities can vary from game to game, here are some common things that Amiibos can do in games:

Unlock exclusive content: Amiibos often grant access to special items, costumes, levels, or even additional game modes that are not available otherwise. By scanning an Amiibo, players can unlock unique content and enhance their gaming experience.
Provide in-game enhancements: Many games allow Amiibos to provide in-game enhancements, such as giving characters a temporary boost in stats, unlocking powerful weapons or abilities, or offering additional resources to aid in gameplay.
Save and transfer data: In certain games, Amiibos can save and transfer data between different consoles. This feature allows players to carry their customized characters, game progress, or special items by using their Amiibo on different devices.
Personalize characters: Some games allow players to customize their in-game characters using the data from an Amiibo. This can include changing the appearance, skills, or attributes of a character to reflect the scanned Amiibo figure.
Unlock new challenges or modes: Amiibos can unlock additional challenges, levels, or gameplay modes within specific games. These bonus features provide added replay value and extend the longevity of the gaming experience.
Interact with virtual characters: In certain games, Amiibo figures can interact with virtual characters, allowing players to invite them to their virtual world, receive gifts, or even engage in special activities or mini-games.

It’s important to note that not all games have Amiibo functionality, and the specific features and benefits provided by Amiibos may vary from game to game. The Nintendo official website provides detailed information on the compatibility and functionality of Amiibos with specific titles, ensuring that players can make the most out of their Amiibo collection.

So whether you want to unlock exclusive content, customize your characters, or access additional challenges, Amiibos offer a wide range of possibilities to enhance your gaming experience and provide hours of entertainment. Explore the unique functions of your Amiibos and discover the exciting features they bring to your favorite Nintendo games.

Amiibo compatibility with different games

Amiibos offer compatibility with a wide variety of Nintendo games, providing unique features and interactions depending on the specific title. While each game has its own set of functionalities, here are some examples of how Amiibos can be used in different games:

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: Scanning compatible Amiibos in this popular game can reward players with items such as weapons, armor, or even exclusive in-game outfits inspired by different Zelda games. Some figures, like the Wolf Link Amiibo, can even summon a companion wolf to help in battles.
Super Mario Odyssey: Amiibos featuring Mario and his friends can provide helpful in-game hints, unlock special outfits for Mario to wear, or even grant temporary invincibility. Each character Amiibo offers unique benefits, giving players a chance to customize their gameplay experience.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Scanning Amiibos in this popular life simulation game allows players to invite specific characters to their island paradise, unlocking new interactions, activities, and customization options. Additionally, scanning certain Amiibos can grant access to exclusive furniture and items for decorating your in-game home.
Splatoon 2: Amiibos from the Splatoon series can unlock special gear and weapons, provide access to exclusive missions or challenges, and even save customizations for in-game characters. Scanning certain Amiibos can also grant access to themed furniture and items for decorating your in-game apartment.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Nearly every Amiibo figure is compatible with this popular fighting game. Scanning an Amiibo allows players to train a computer-controlled fighter that learns their fighting style and evolves over time. Trained Amiibo fighters can then be used in battles against other players or computer opponents.

These are just a few examples of the wide-ranging compatibility between Amiibos and various Nintendo games. It’s important to check the compatibility list provided by Nintendo for each game to see what specific features each Amiibo unlocks. With new games constantly being released and updated, the possibilities for Amiibo interactions and functionalities continue to expand.

Whether you’re exploring new possibilities in The Legend of Zelda, creating unique outfits in Super Mario Odyssey, or inviting your favorite characters to your virtual island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Amiibos enhance and personalize your gameplay experience across a diverse array of Nintendo games.

Where can you buy Amiibos?

Amiibos are widely available and can be purchased from various retailers both online and offline. Here are some popular places where you can buy Amiibos:

Retail Stores: Many brick-and-mortar retailers, such as GameStop, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target, have dedicated sections for video game accessories where you can find a selection of Amiibo figures. Check with your local gaming or electronics store for availability.
Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart offer a wide variety of Amiibos for sale. These online platforms often have a larger inventory, including rare or hard-to-find Amiibos that may not be available in physical stores.
Nintendo Official Store: The Nintendo Official Store (store.nintendo.com) is the official online retailer for Nintendo products. It offers a wide selection of Amiibos, including newly released figures, exclusive editions, and bundles. Shopping through the official store ensures the authenticity of the Amiibo figures.
Specialty Gaming Stores: Specialty gaming stores, such as GameStop and EB Games, have dedicated sections for gaming accessories, including Amiibos. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can assist you in finding the specific Amiibo you’re looking for.
Collectible and Toy Stores: Some collectible and toy stores, like Toys”R”Us and Entertainment Earth, also carry a selection of Amiibo figures. These stores can be a great option if you’re looking for a more diverse range of Amiibos or store exclusives.

It’s important to keep in mind that while Amiibos are commonly available, certain figures may be more difficult to find due to limited release or high demand. Collectible or rare Amiibos may require additional effort and research to locate and may even become valuable items among collectors. Be sure to check multiple sources and stay updated on release announcements to increase your chances of finding the Amiibos you’re looking for.

Whether you prefer to shop online or visit physical stores, with a little bit of searching and patience, you can add new Amiibos to your collection and expand your gaming experience with these interactive Nintendo figures.

How to take care of your Amiibos?

Taking care of your Amiibos is important to ensure their longevity and preserve their appearance for years to come. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your Amiibo figures:

Handle with clean hands: Always make sure your hands are clean and dry before handling your Amiibo figures. This helps prevent dirt, oils, and moisture from transferring onto the figure’s surface.
Store in a cool and dry place: Keep your Amiibos in a location where they are protected from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and humidity. Storing them in a display case, on a shelf, or in a dedicated box helps minimize the risk of damage.
Avoid excessive handling: While it’s fun to interact with your Amiibo figures, try to avoid excessive handling to minimize the risk of accidental drops or damage. Be gentle when placing the figures on NFC touchpoints and avoid bending or twisting the figure’s limbs.
Clean with a soft, dry cloth: If your Amiibo figures accumulate dust or fingerprints, gently wipe them with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents, as they may damage the figure’s surface or paint.
Display or store with care: If you’re displaying your Amiibo figures, make sure the display area is stable and secure. Avoid placing them near the edges of shelves or on unsteady surfaces to prevent accidental falls. If storing them, consider using individual protective cases or sleeves to prevent scratches or dings.
Avoid water exposure: Keep your Amiibos away from water or other liquids. If they do get wet, gently pat them dry with a soft cloth and allow them to air dry completely before storing or displaying them again.
Avoid impact or dropping: Accidental drops or impacts can cause damage to the delicate parts or paint of the Amiibo figures. Take care when handling and avoid rough play or mishandling that may lead to breakage or chipping.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your Amiibo figures remain in pristine condition. Proper care prolongs the life of your Amiibos and allows you to continue enjoying their interactive features and collecting adventures for years to come.

Are there any rare or collectible Amiibos?

Yes, there are indeed rare and collectible Amiibo figures that have become highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. These rare Amiibos are often limited in production, exclusive to certain retailers, or tied to special events or promotions. Here are a few examples of rare or collectible Amiibos:

Gold Mario: The Gold Mario Amiibo was released as a Walmart exclusive in 2015 and quickly became one of the most coveted Amiibos due to its limited availability. This figure features a golden variant of the iconic Mario character.
Louie: Louie, from the Pikmin series, was available exclusively as part of the Pikmin short movies Blu-ray set. This limited edition Amiibo quickly became a collector’s item due to its exclusivity.
Marth (Fire Emblem): The original Marth Amiibo figure from the Fire Emblem series had a limited initial release and quickly sold out in many regions. This scarcity has made it highly sought after by collectors.
Shovel Knight (Gold Edition): The Shovel Knight Amiibo, particularly the gold edition, is a rare and highly sought after figure. The gold edition was exclusively available through special promotions and events.
Little Mac: Little Mac, a character from Punch-Out!!, was a wave one Amiibo figure that had limited availability and became highly collectible due to its rarity.

The rarity of Amiibos can vary based on factors such as region, production quantity, retailer exclusivity, and time since release. Some figures that were once considered rare may become more readily available through restocks or reissues. On the other hand, new releases or reimagined versions of popular characters may become highly sought after.

Collecting rare Amiibos can be a thrilling hobby for enthusiasts, but it’s important to be cautious of counterfeit figures. High-demand Amiibos often attract counterfeiters who create fake replicas. To ensure you’re buying legitimate and authentic Amiibos, it’s best to purchase from reputable retailers or official sources.

Whether you’re collecting every Amiibo figure or searching for those elusive rare gems, building a collection of Amiibos can be a fun and rewarding experience for Nintendo fans and collectors alike.

Customizing your Amiibos

One of the exciting aspects of owning Amiibo figures is the ability to personalize and customize them to make them truly your own. Here are some creative ways to customize your Amiibos:

Painting and Repainting: With careful attention and some artistic skill, you can customize your Amiibos by painting them in unique colors or adding intricate designs. Acrylic paints, paintbrushes, and sealants specifically designed for plastic surfaces are commonly used to achieve desired effects.
Decals and Stickers: Adding decals or stickers can instantly give your Amiibo figures a new look. You can find various designs online or create your own custom stickers using printable sticker paper.
Custom Accessories: Enhance your Amiibos by crafting or attaching custom accessories. You can create tiny hats, weapons, or props using crafting materials like polymer clay or foam, and attach them securely to the Amiibo figures for added flair.
Sculpting and Modifying: If you’re skilled with sculpting materials like clay or epoxy putty, you can make intricate modifications to your Amiibo figures. Add details, change poses, or even create entirely new elements to transform your Amiibo into a unique piece of art.
Base Modifications: Consider customizing the base of your Amiibo figure. You can create decorative bases using materials like wood or foam, or even personalize them with unique patterns or designs.

When customizing your Amiibos, it’s essential to remember a few key points. First, take your time and plan your designs carefully to ensure the best results. Test out techniques on spare materials before applying them to your Amiibo figures. Additionally, make sure to use materials that are safe for plastic surfaces and won’t cause damage or degradation over time.

It’s worth noting that while customizing Amiibos can be a fun and creative endeavor, it may affect their value as collectible items. If you’re a collector or plan to sell your Amiibos in the future, consider the impact of customization on their overall worth.

Remember, customizing your Amiibos is a great way to add a personal touch and showcase your creativity. Whether you’re exploring new painting techniques or crafting unique accessories, customizing your Amiibos allows you to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your individual style and imagination.

Other uses for Amiibos

While Amiibos are primarily known for their interaction with Nintendo consoles and games, they can also be utilized for other purposes beyond gaming. Here are some other interesting uses for Amiibos:

Display and Collectibles: Many people simply enjoy collecting Amiibo figures for their aesthetic appeal. With their detailed designs and varied characters, Amiibos make great additions to display shelves, desks, or gaming-themed collections.
Amiibo Cards: In addition to the traditional figurines, some Amiibos are also available in card form. These collectible Amiibo cards offer the same functionality as their corresponding figurines and are a more compact alternative for those short on space.
Trading and Sharing: Due to the wide variety of Amiibo figures available, it has become popular for collectors to trade or share figures with others to complete their collections or obtain specific characters of interest. Online communities and forums provide platforms for Amiibo enthusiasts to connect and exchange figures.
Artistic Inspiration: Amiibos can serve as inspiration for artists and creative individuals. Many artists incorporate Amiibo figures into their artwork or use them as references for character designs, illustrations, or even stop-motion animations.
Event Tokens: Some event organizers have found innovative ways to incorporate Amiibos into non-gaming events. For example, Amiibos can be used as tokens or rewards for participating in tournaments, conventions, or community gatherings.
Collectible Trading Cards: Several Amiibo lines, such as the Animal Crossing: New Horizons series, have corresponding collectible trading cards. These cards can be collected, traded, or used for activities like card games or displaying alongside the Amiibo figures.

The versatility of Amiibos extends beyond gaming, offering opportunities for creative expression, community engagement, and even artistic exploration. Whether you’re collecting, sharing, or using them as artistic inspiration, Amiibos have become a beloved and multifaceted part of the Nintendo enthusiast community.

It’s fascinating to see how Amiibos have transcended their initial gaming purpose and found their way into various other realms of enjoyment and creativity, showcasing the lasting impact of these interactive figures on people’s lives beyond the gaming world.

The future of Amiibos

Amiibos have gained tremendous popularity since their introduction, and the future looks bright for these interactive Nintendo figures. Here are some potential developments and possibilities for the future of Amiibos:

Expanded Compatibility: As new Nintendo consoles are released, we can expect Amiibo compatibility to continue and potentially become more robust. Future consoles may offer enhanced features and interactions specifically designed for Amiibos, providing even more immersive experiences.
New Game Integrations: With every new game release, there is the potential for unique and innovative integrations with Amiibos. Nintendo has been known to creatively implement Amiibo functionality into their games, and it’s likely that future titles will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Evolution of Technology: As technology evolves, it’s possible that Amiibos may incorporate more advanced features. We might see improved NFC technology, increased storage capacity for data, or even the integration of other technologies such as augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) to enhance the Amiibo experience.
Collaborations and Special Editions: Nintendo has already collaborated with various franchises and companies to release special edition Amiibos, such as the Legend of Zelda or Splatoon series. In the future, we could see even more collaborations, limited editions, and exclusive releases that cater to the specific interests and desires of fans.
Enhanced Collectible Features: With the growing popularity of collecting, it’s possible that future Amiibos may offer additional collectible elements. This could include unique packaging, rare variations, or additional accessories to increase their desirability among collectors.

It’s also worth noting that the Amiibo community is incredibly passionate, with many fans showcasing creative fan art, customizations, and even creating their own Amiibo-inspired accessories and expansions. This engagement from the community could potentially inspire Nintendo to further involve and engage fans in shaping the future of Amiibos.

While the specifics of the future of Amiibos remain uncertain, one thing is clear: Nintendo continues to support and expand the Amiibo line, adding new figures and functionality with each passing year. As technology progresses and gaming experiences evolve, Amiibos are likely to remain a beloved and integral part of Nintendo’s gaming ecosystem and the lives of fans and collectors worldwide.