What is amiibo on Nintendo consoles? See how they work!

Amiibo is a line of collectible figures and interactive cards produced by Nintendo. These products are used in conjunction with Nintendo video game consoles such as the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch and other compatible systems. Each amiibo represents a specific character from Nintendo games and contains a built-in NFC (Near Field Communication) chip. Amiibos can be used in a variety of ways depending on the game. They can unlock additional content such as outfits, weapons or levels in specific games, provide assistance or challenges in certain titles, store player progress data, and even offer a personalized gaming experience when interacting with amiibo characters. In addition to the figures, Nintendo also released amiibo cards, which serve the same purpose, but in card format. These cards have the same NFC chip and are used in the same way as the figures. Amiibo have become a popular part of the gaming experience for many Nintendo fans, combining physical collecting with digital in-game interactivity. How do amiibos work? The operation of amiibos involves wireless communication using NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. Each amiibo contains a small NFC chip that stores data specific to the character represented by the figure or card. When the amiibo is brought close to an NFC reading point on a Nintendo console, such as the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS or Nintendo Switch, data is transferred, allowing in-game interactions. The basic process involves the following steps: The player physically brings the amiibo closer to the NFC reading point on the console. The console reads the information stored on the amiibo's NFC chip. The game recognizes the amiibo information and triggers the corresponding interaction. This may include unlocking content such as special items, costumes, characters, or levels, depending on the game. In some cases, amiibos can also store player data, such as statistics or progress in specific games. This allows the amiibo to be used on different consoles while retaining this data. For example, in a game like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild", by touching a specific amiibo to the NFC reading point, you can receive items such as potions, weapons or even special outfits . In games like "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate," you can train your amiibo as a virtual fighter, which learns and adapts its play style based on interactions and battles. It's important to note that not all games use amiibos in the same way, and specific features may vary between titles. Nintendo continues to explore new ways to incorporate amiibo functionality into its games, providing unique experiences for players. What games accept amiibo? Amiibo compatibility varies by game and platform. However, many Nintendo games, especially those released for the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, and Nintendo Switch, support amiibo. The list of compatible games continues to grow as new titles are released. Below are some examples of games that accept amiibo, but it's important to check the latest information as the list may have been expanded since this answer was last updated: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Amiibos can be used to obtain special items, clothing and other benefits. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - Amiibos can be trained as virtual fighters and gain experience to improve their skills. Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Amiibos can be used to invite special characters to your island. Super Mario Odyssey - Amiibos unlock special costumes for Mario. Splatoon 2 - Amiibos can be used to unlock equipment and save character settings. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Amiibos unlock costumes for Miis. Fire Emblem: Three Houses - Amiibos offer items and unlock a special function. Yoshi's Crafted World - Amiibos can unlock skins for Yoshi. These are just a few options, and many other Nintendo games have amiibo integration. It is recommended that you check the specific information for each game to find out how amiibos are used. Which consoles do you have amiibos on? Amiibos are compatible with various Nintendo consoles, providing special interactions and additional content on different platforms. 1. Nintendo Switch The amiibos are compatible with Nintendo Switch, allowing players to use these figures or cards by touching them to the NFC touch point on the right Joy-Con or Pro Controller, which is sold separately. This functionality provides an additional layer of customization and rewards for various games available on the platform. 2. New Nintendo 3DS Amiibos are also supported on New Nintendo 3DS systems, including the New Nintendo 3DS XL and New Nintendo 2DS XL models. Players can simply touch the amiibos to the NFC area on the touchscreen of these devices to unlock exclusive content, costumes and special items, thus expanding the gaming experience. 3. Wii U On Wii U, amiibo figures can be used by touching them to the Wii U GamePad's NFC touchpoint. This functionality was integrated into several console games, providing exclusive benefits and expanding the possibilities within these titles. 4. Nintendo 3DS with NFC Reader/Writer amiibos can be used on Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL and Nintendo 2DS via the NFC Reader/Writer accessory (sold separately). By touching amiibos to this extension, players can enjoy the interactions and benefits offered by these collectible figures across a variety of titles available for these portable consoles.