Now you’re playing with cardboard. Nintendo surprise and delight with the reveal of Nintendo Labo, a new range of interactive DIY creations that work with the Nintendo Switch.
Nintendo Labo kits use sheets of pre-scored cardboard that can be assembled into a variety of objects that interact with the Nintendo Switch console and Joy-Con controllers. The new range is specifically aimed at a younger, curious, and creative audience – although, based on the ensuing internet chatter, it also looks like being a big hit with Nintendo die-hards.
The reveal trailer shows Nintendo Labo kits being used to create a fully functioning 13-key piano, motorbike handles, a working fishing rod, and a robot suit.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UmRhLA3Qzk
Nintendo of Europe president, Satoru Shibata, said in a press statement:
“Our goal is to put smiles on the faces of everyone Nintendo touches. Nintendo Labo invites anyone with a creative mind and a playful heart to make, play and discover in new ways with Nintendo Switch. I personally hope to see many people enjoying making kits with their family members, with big smiles on their faces.”
Well, that’s certainly how we felt. It might not be for us, but it’s fantastic to see the Switch used for something so novel and creative. We’re also excited by the possibilities of mods and home-brew kits. And we’re frankly overjoyed that it’s not another range of plastic peripherals to collect.
The first two Nintendo Labo kits will be released on April 20th in North America, and April 27th in Europe. The Variety kit contains five delightful named Toy-Cons, and the Robot kit everything you need to build a fully wearable robot suit.
Nintendo Labo Kit Contents
Variety Kit
- Toy-Con RC Car: The Left and Right Joy-Con control the movement of an RC Car using the Switch’s touch screen
- Toy-Con Fishing Rod: A fishing rod with an active, rotating reel attached by string to a cradle holding the Switch
- Toy-Con House: Various blocks slot into openings in the sides and bottom of a House, that can interact with a creature on the front-facing Switch screen
- Toy-Con Motorbike: Each Joy-Con slots into an assembled set of handlebars to drive a motorbike on the Switch screen
- Toy-Con Piano: Use the Nintendo Switch console and Joy-Con to create music and sound effects on a 13-key piano
Robot Kit
- Toy-Con Robot: A wearable robot suit with Left and Right Joy-Con slotted into the backpack, and visor to assume control of the robot, which is shown on the TV when the Switch is docked
Nintendo is running a series of Nintendo Labo Workshops in cities across Europe and North America, giving families the chance to try out the kits before release. Head over to the Nintendo Labo website to register your interest.
