Fans of the Nintendo Switch received a huge surprise in the last few hours. The Japanese giant has always managed to neutralize and destroy expectations with relative ease, but we are convinced that no one expected a new platform for DIY cardboard accessories. Part of the public sees Nintendo Labo as a simple experiment. Others believe it is an interesting way for the Switch to become much more than a portable console. And we will have to wait until April to know who is right.
A surprise announcement
If we have to talk about games, one of the most requested titles for the Nintendo Switch is a new Smash Bros., to such an extent that it became a rumor before the console was launched. As for functions, games saved in the cloud (or alternatively, on the SD card) appear at the top of the list. Any major technical problem equals the loss of game progress, and the stories published on the Web about it are full of anger and frustration. Basically all user expectations go in those directions. And when Nintendo confirmed a special announcement for January 17 (January 18 in Japan), they began to shout. What they found was this:
https://www.youtube.com/embed/P3Bd3HUMkyU
What is Nintendo Labo?
Cardboard toys! That is the idea behind the Nintendo Labo project. Those interested will be able to purchase two special kits and assemble a significant number of accessories (official name "Toy-Cons"), including a fishing rod, motorcycle, piano, remote-controlled cars, and a robotic suit so complex that it must be purchased separately. The assembly instructions are displayed directly on the Switch in a clear and precise manner, allowing adults and children to join forces during construction without difficulty. In fact, that teamwork between parents and children will be critical for the Nintendo Labo vision to fully develop. The choice of cardboard is logical if we consider the audience these accessories are intended for. Children will destroy the Toy-Cons, and Nintendo has already confirmed that replacement kits (only the cardboard) will be available, accompanied by patterns to reproduce them.
Kits and prices
Of course, the magic of Nintendo Labo would not be possible without software, and to some extent, that is what the user will pay for when they purchase the kits for the first time. That brings us to the prices: The "Variety Kit" with the fishing rod, piano, house, motorcycle, two remote-controlled cars, official software, and all secondary pieces (with several spare parts) costs $70. On the other hand, the "Robot Kit" goes up a notch and will debut with an $80 price tag. Nintendo's intention is definitely noble, as it does not want to turn children into sedated automatons in front of a tablet, but rather have them use the Switch to build and learn. The rest will depend on the market. Both kits will be available on April 20.
