Nintendo unveils interactive build-and-play kits for Switch

Launching April 20, Nintendo Labo lets kids transform modular sheets of cardboard designed to interact with the Nintendo Switch console and Joy-Con controllers.
January 18, 2018

Giving new meaning to toys-to-life, Nintendo is set to launch Nintendo Labo, a new line of cardboard-based, interactive DIY experiences for kids that work with the company’s bestselling Switch console system and Joy-Con controllers (both sold separately).

In the line’s variety kit (pricing is yet to be announced), five Toy-Cons can be constructed—a functioning 13-key piano (pictured), a remote controlled car, a fishing rod, a house and a motorbike. For the piano, by inserting the Nintendo Switch console and right Joy-Con controller, the IR motion camera in the right Joy-Con will detect which keys are pressed and will translate them into musical notes heard through the console.

As for the motorbike, the Joy-Cons can be placed into a cardboard set of handlebars to drive the bike on-screen. The Toy-Con Motorbike features an ignition button to start the engine and a throttle can be activated by twisting the right handle. Kids can also lean their bodies or turn the handlebars left and right for more control.

The line also features a robot kit that lets kids create a wearable robot suit featuring a visor, backpack and hand and feet straps that, when used with the left and right Joy-Cons, can help control a giant in-game robot. In addition, kids can customize their creations with stencils, stickers and colored tape that will also be available for purchase on April 20.

The line arrives amid Nintendo’s ongoing comeback year, which saw the Switch recently become the fastest-selling home video game system in US history. Interestingly, Labo is also launching as the toys-to-life category continues to evolve. Following the demise of Disney Infinity, Warner Bros., TT Games and The LEGO Group announced the end of its hit IP LEGO Dimensions last October. Ubisoft, however, is still planning to launch its new toys-to-life adventure game, entitled Starlink: Battle for Atlas, this fall.

About The Author
Jeremy is the Features Editor of Kidscreen specializing in the content production, broadcasting and distribution aspects of the global children's entertainment industry. Contact Jeremy at jdickson@brunico.com.

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