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2025–2026 amiibo Lineup and Pre-Orders: Mario Galaxy, Kirby Air Riders, Resident Evil, and More - Nintendo Wire

Lau Chi Fung

— 2 min read

The Enduring Popularity of Amiibo: A Decade of Collecting and Gaming

It's hard to believe that it's been over ten years since the Amiibo line was first introduced by Nintendo. Launched in 2014, these small figurines have become a staple of gaming culture, with a dedicated fan base that shows no signs of fading away. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Amiibo and explore what makes them so endearing to collectors and gamers alike.

A Brief History of Amiibo

The concept of Amiibo was first introduced at E3 2014, with a range of characters from popular Nintendo franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. The initial launch featured four figures: Mario, Link, Captain Falcon, and Samus Aran. Each Amiibo contained a unique NFC (near field communication) chip that allowed players to interact with their characters in various games.

Since then, the Amiibo line has expanded exponentially, with new characters and franchises being added regularly. Today, there are over 800 different Amiibo figures available, ranging from popular Nintendo franchises to third-party licenses like Marvel and Star Wars.

So, what's behind the enduring popularity of Amiibo? Here are a few reasons:

  • Nostalgia: For many gamers, Amiibo evoke memories of childhood gaming experiences. The figurines serve as a nostalgic reminder of classic Nintendo games and franchises.
  • Collectibility: Amiibo have become highly collectible items, with rare figures commanding high prices on the secondary market.
  • Gaming Interaction: The NFC technology in Amiibo allows for seamless interaction with games like Super Smash Bros., Mario Kart, and Splatoon. This interactive aspect has helped to maintain a loyal fan base.
  • Artistic Appeal: Many Amiibo designs are highly detailed and visually appealing, making them a joy to display on shelves or in collections.

New Figures and Expansions

In recent years, Nintendo has announced several new Amiibo figures, including characters from popular franchises like Pokémon, Zelda, and Super Mario. The company has also expanded its licensing agreements to include third-party brands like Marvel and Star Wars.

Some notable examples of new Amiibo releases include:

  • Pokémon Legends: Arceus: A range of Amiibo figures were released in 2022 to coincide with the launch of this highly anticipated game.
  • Super Mario 3D All-Stars: A set of Amiibo figures was announced in 2021, featuring characters from three classic Super Mario games.

The Future of Amiibo

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it's likely that Amiibo will remain a beloved part of Nintendo's lineup. With new figures and expansions being released regularly, there's never been a better time to get into the world of Amiibo.

In addition to their role in Nintendo games, Amiibo have also become a staple of gaming culture. They've inspired countless fan art creations, cosplay outfits, and even tattoos.

Conclusion

The enduring popularity of Amiibo is a testament to the power of nostalgia, collectibility, and innovative design. As the gaming industry continues to change, it's likely that Amiibo will remain a beloved part of Nintendo's lineup.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your Amiibo journey, there's never been a better time to get involved. With new figures and expansions being released regularly, the world of Amiibo is more vibrant than ever.

  • Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A popular fighting game that features a wide range of Amiibo characters.
  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: A fun racing game that includes Amiibo figures as playable characters.
  • Splatoon 2: A colorful third-person shooter that allows players to use their Amiibo figures in multiplayer modes.
  • Amiibo Figures: The core of any Amiibo collection, these figurines can be purchased individually or as part of larger sets.
  • Amiibo Stand: A display stand designed specifically for showcasing your Amiibo figures.
  • Amiibo Album: A protective album that allows you to store and showcase your Amiibo figures.

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