Just what the heck is 'amiibo'?'amiibo' (which Nintendo has informed us is never capitalised) is Nintendo's new line of 'smart toys' - a range of real life figures that, when scanned on the Wii U's gamepad, unlock cool things in certain, supported games. The first 12 amiibo figurines release on 28th November, followed by a second pocket money draining set of 6 figures following on 19th December, with more expected to trickle out on a fairly regular basis into the new year.
Each only a few inches tall, amiibos are detailed figurines of your favourite Nintendo characters, with a huge range of familiar faces on offer, from Mario, Yoshi and Pikachu, to everyone's favourite pink puffball Kirby, and perennial baddie Bowser. More than just a pretty face, each figure can be used to 'enhance' the gameplay of various Wii U and 3DS games - but they effect they have will depend on the game you're scanning them in to, from simple enhancements like unlocking additional outfits to something more in depth, like a fully customisable character that grows as you play.
Those of you who've dealt with the craze that is Activision's Skylanders or the Disney Infinity characters and Play Sets will know exactly what to expect. With the figures set to release in fairly limited numbers (what better way of ensuring high demand?), and with Christmas just around the corner, it's also probably a good idea to preorder your favourite amiibo while you have the chance. We remember just how hard it was to grab Ninjini when she first launched for Skylanders Giants - and we have no doubt that some of you do too.
There's a whole new world coming with amiibo
Alright, I'm listening. How do they work?amiibo interact with various Nintendo games via a technology called NFC (near field communication), so all you have to do is touch the figure to the Wii U Gamepad's sensor and you're ready to go. One of the best things about amiibo, this means that unlike other games, the figures work directly with your Wii U Gamepad - so there's no messing around with portals or other peripherals.
As an interesting factoid, this isn't the first time we've seen the Wii U's NFC reader used in this way. Eagle eyed readers may remember that , with the release of Pokemon Rumble U. Much like Skylanders and Disney Infinity, this let players scan special Pokemon Rumble figures into the game to unlock that character in-game.
Like other figures, amiibo store their data on the figurine itself. For example, in a game like Super Smash Bros. on the Wii U, your amiibo will store custom fighter information. With the data saved on the figure itself, all you have to do is take it round a friend's house to do battle with your custom character, making it kind of like a save card, only more limited.Unlike Activision's line of Skylanders Toys or Disney Infinity figurines, where scanning a figure in lets you play as that character in the game, amiibo have a wider variety of uses, unlocking various bits and pieces across a wide range of Wii U (and soon, 3DS) games.
What games can I use them with?
So far there are several games that will utilise amiibo in some way. Luckily, there's no need to try and memorise a big list of compatible titles, either, as amiibo-supporting games will come sporting a handy logo right on the box.
We've rounded up a list of every compatible Wii U title that's been revealed so far, along with a peek at how the amiibo will work with each game.
Super Smash Bros for Wii U
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U was the first game revealed to be compatible with amiibo figurines. Scanning an amiibo on the gamepad will allow you train a customised, computer-controlled 'FP fighter' based on the amiibo your own. This can either fight against you as a rival, or for you as in game ally. Every time you fight with your amiibo they get stronger.
If your planning on picking up the game we recommend the Super Smash Bros. for Wii U + Mario amiibo bundle. This set features a copy of the game as well as the first amiibo in the range - none other than Mario!
Mario Kart 8
amiibo functionality is also coming to the recently released Mario Kart 8 via a software update. Compatible amiibo figurines will unlock themed racing suits for your Mii's to wear in game, based around the character you've scanned in.
Oddly, only 10 characters are compatible, which are Mario, Link, Samus, Luigi, Yoshi, Peach, Kirby, Fox McCloud, Captain Falcon and Donkey Kong.
Hyrule Warriors
Much like Mario Kart 8, Hyrule Warriors will be gaining amiibo compatibility by way of software update. Using the Link amiibo will unlock 'The Spinner' item to use in game, last seen in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
Every other amiibo is also compatible with Hyrule Warriors, with each granting you a randomly selected in-game material, weapon or rupee when scanned.
Other games
amiibo functionality will also apparently be coming to Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, Yoshi's Wooly World,Kirby and the Rainbow Paintbrush and Mario Party 10, although details of quite what you'll be able to do with your figures have yet to be released. While it's safe to say the amiibos don't yet have their killer apps - giving us extra in game goodies is hardly a reason to rush out and buy the lot - we're hoping there'll be something more impressive soon. We'll update this as and when we hear more - and more compatible titles are expected to be revealed going forward.
Okay already, I'm in. Show me the fighters!
So now that you know what amiibo will be used for, its time to familiarise yourself with what's available and get a better look at all those sweet figurines.
The first 2 waves are based around the playable characters from Super Smash Bros. Read on for compatibility details and even where each character made their debut.
Wave 1 - Released November 28th
Mario (Best known for: Super Mario Bros. series)
Everyone knows Mario - and so it should come as no surprise that everyone's favourite plumber is one of the very first amiibo figures, complete with a cool, transparent fireball.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Link (Best known for: The Legend of Zelda series)
The hero of Hyrule is here, with everything he needs to slay his opponents - a fighting expression, a master sword, a Hylian shield, and a bit of a stick up his backside.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Samus (Best known for: Metroid series)
She's the coolest space bounty hunter you'll ever meet, and a really nicely detailed figure too. Just don't call her "Metroid" - her name is Samus Aran.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Kirby (Best known for: Kirby series)
One of the (many) figures we've got our eyes on, this is going to be hard to resis. Just look at his little smile, and general roundness. If only he could swallow his opponents and nick their abilities in figure form too. Then we wouldn't have to buy the rest...
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Fox (Best known for: StarFox series)
"WHO ARE YOU GUYS!?"
"We're Star Fox!"
Master of terrible quotes, star of the shoot 'em up/space sim hybrid, and wearer of Google Glass before it was cool, Fox McCloud is a sci-fi rebel..
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Donkey Kong (Best known for: Donkey Kong series)
While he may have been replaced in the Princess Peach kidnapping stakes by Bowser, we know one thing for sure: never mess with an ape that wears a tie.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Pikachu (Best known for: Pokémon series)
The most famous Pokémon of all, Pikachu will electrify the competition. Plus, he looks pretty chuffed too.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Princess Peach (Best known for: Super Mario Bros. series)
This knock out of a princess is ready for a royal rumble, and is one of the most detailed of all the amiibo figures. On the downside, she does come complete with a pole up her backside. But hey. Whatever floats your boat.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Marth (Best known for: Fire Emblem series)
Straight from the depths of turn based strategy game (and one of the 3DS's finest titles), Fire Emblem, Marth steps into the amiibo arena.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Yoshi (Best known for: Super Mario Bros. series)
Mario's long suffering, and often overlooked partner in crime, the reliable Yoshi will eat you up and spit you out inside an egg for fun.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
- Yoshi's Woolly World (Unconfirmed)
Villager (Best known for: Animal Crossing series)
Don't be fooled. Behind that clueless smile is a cold blooded killer.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Wii Fit Trainer (Wii Fit Series)
So Yoga is now a martial art. Who knew?
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Wave 2 - Released December 19th
Diddy Kong (Best known for: Donkey Kong series)
The younger sibling of Donkey Kong, everything about this character is bananas. Even his weapons.Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Princess Zelda (Best known for: The Legend of Zelda series)
With the power of a Goddess, The Princess of Hyrule is sure to do some damage. Sadly doesnt' come with a detachable cloak that makes her look like alter ego Sheik.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Luigi (Best known for: Super Mario Bros. series)
As Mario's younger brother, Luigi is often overlooked - all the more reason for him to give his opponents his patented Death Stare.Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Captain Falcon (Best known for:F Zero series)
The fastest racer on the planet (at least when he's in his trusty anti-gravity ship, the Blue Falcon), Captain Falcon came into his own in Nintendo beat 'em up Super Smash Bros. Don't make the mistake of calling him a Power Ranger, or you might end up on the tail end of a Falcon Punch. Also, probably best not to mention his oddly golden nipples.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors
Pit (Best known for: Kid Icarus series)
Some angels are all goody goody, this one doesn't mind a fight.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Little Mac (Best known for: Punch Out series)
He may be on the small side, but this championship boxer won't be pulling any punches.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Wave 3 - Released January 23rd 2015
Rosalina and Luma (Best known for: Super Mario Galaxy series)
Rosalina is pretty much queen of the galaxy and mother character to the star like Luma. She first appeared helping Mario in Super Mario Galaxy for the GameCube.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Bowser (Best known for: Super Mario Bros. series)
Bowser (or King Koopa as he's been known) is the fierce lizard king responsible for kidnapping Princess Peach more times than we can count, including the very first time: Super Mario Bros. for NES.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Lucario (Best known for: Pokémon series)
Lucario: the Spirit Aura Pokémon. Having empath like abilities, it can tell how others are feeling from over half a mile away. First appeared in Pokémon Diamond and Pearl for DS.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Toon Link (Best known for: The Legend of Zelda series)
This version of Link was arguably first seen in Four Swords on GBA and The Wind Waker on GameCube. Why are their multiple Links you ask? Well it involves different generations and time travel. Confusing as heck.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Mario Kart 8
- Hyrule Warriors (Unlocks Weapon)
Sheik (Best known for: The Legend of Zelda series)
Trained in the arts of the ancient Sheikah tribe, Sheik is secretly Princess Zelda in a magical disguise. She took on this form in the N64 title Ocarina of Time in order to escape the clutches of demon king Ganondorf.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors (Unlocks Weapon)
Ike (Best known for: Fire Emblem Series)
Ike is the personal bodyguard to Princess Elincia. As a former mercenary Ike is a formidable fighter and born leader. He started out as the main character of Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, but now, he fights for his friends.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Wave 4 - Released February 20th 2015
Shulk (Best known for: Xenoblade Series)
First seen in one of the last Wii games, the japanese role playing game Xenoblade Chronicles, Shulk wields the mythical Monado sword and uses his Monado arts to help him defeat his foes. Apparently he's really feeling it!
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Sonic (Best known for: Sonic the Hedgehog series)
Sonic is one of the most well known characters in gaming. When he's not joining Mario in Olympic games this super speedy hedgehog is all about speed. As a non-Nintendo character his first appearance was in Sonic the Hedgehog on the Sega Master System (or Genesis in the US).
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Mega Man (Best known for: Mega Man series)
Another non Nintendo character. Mega Man is a robot that was re-purposed to fight Dr. Wily and his horde of evil robots. Mega Man first appeared on the NES title Mega Man. Go figure.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
King Dedede (Best known for: Kirby series)
King Dedede is the self-proclaimed king of Dream Land and one of the main villains of the Kirby series. Although he has helped out Kirby on certain adventures. His first outing as Kirby's arch-nemesis was in Kirby's Dream Land for Game Boy.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
Meta Knight (Best known for: Kirby series)
Friend and foe of Kirby, Meta Knight is the leader of an army of Soldiers known as the Meta-Knights, and captain of the battleship Halberd. His motives are usually unknown. He first appeared in Kirby's Adventure for NES.
Compatible Titles
- Super Smash Bros for Wii U
- Hyrule Warriors
With wave one and two combined offering an impressive 29 figures in total, there's a lot of choice on offer if you'll be dipping your toes into the amiibo pool. With each setting you back around £10.99 RRP, it's going to be an expensive Christmas if you want the lot.
That's a lot of characters. Won't they be difficult to carry?
Of course we would be remiss if we didn't mention a way for you to avoid bundling all those figurines in your arms and carrying them over to a friends house (and possibly breaking them in the process). Luckily, Nintendo and PowerA have you covered with the following amiibo carry cases available at select retailers.
We know what you're thinking... That '?' block case does look sweet.
Did I hear you mention amiibo for 3DS? What's that all about?
Those of you who own a 3DS will be pleased to hear that it too will be getting some amiibo love next year, with a patch bringing amiibo functionality to Super Smash Bros for 3DS, and other mysterious 3DS titles yet to be announced.As we've previously covered, both the 'New 3DS' and 'New 3DS XL' will sport amiibo compatibility out of the box, via a built in NFC reader (much like its older Wii U sibling). Great for those of you without a 3DS system, or those who are dying to upgrade to the newer model.
For those of you who already own a 2DS or 3DS system and don't plan on upgrading, Nintendo has you covered. They'll be releasing a hockey puck sized adapter that makes the figurines compatible with older 3DS hardware through the magic of local wireless communication.
We hope it glows. Everything's better if it glows.
---
So, that's all the info we have to share on amiibo for now! We'll be updating this article as and when information is available so be sure to check back in the future.
Until then we want to know; which of the many characters are you planning on picking up? Be sure to let us know in the comments below.
The first wave of amiibo will be available from shops from 28th November, with the second wave of amiibo figures set to land in shops on 19th December. The first amiibo compatible title 'Super Smash Bros. for Wii U' launches on 28th November at retail or digitally from Nintendo eShop.
