As the holiday season approaches, let’s dive into what’s buzzing on the Nintendo Switch eShop. This week’s theme revolves around festive events and challenges, with popular games like Fortnite and Disney: Dreamlight Valley fully embracing the winter spirit.
Do you still remember Pokémon Violet and Scarlet? With an avalanche of new titles since their release, they might have slipped into the background. But now’s the perfect time to revisit them during the current Tera Raid Battle Event, running until January 5. Grab this chance to catch a Shiny Rayquaza, a rare gem you won’t find in regular gameplay.
Meanwhile, Fortnite continues its tradition of themed adventures, reopening the cozy Winterfest Cabin until January 7. EA Sports FC 25 has introduced Winter Wildcards, and Disney: Dreamlight Valley offers a heartfelt Gift of Giving event, all celebrating the season in their unique ways.
If these events aren’t quite your cup of tea, perhaps the massive eShop holiday sale will tempt you. With substantial discounts on a variety of titles—from Monster Hunter to Mega Man, LEGO to Resident Evil—there’s bound to be a hidden gem waiting for you. I’ve already earmarked a few favorites that I’ll be discussing in our next Pure Nintendo Podcast episode. We’d love to hear about the treasures you uncover in the sale.
For those seeking more excitement, there’s a new Maximus Cup event in Tetris 99 that’ll get your adrenaline pumping, along with some epic Zelda music available on the Nintendo Music app. Dive into the latest Nintendo soundtrack and experience the world in a whole new way.
Browse the full list of eShop events, bargains, and fresh releases below. So, what’s your pick for the weekend?
Nintendo Switch:
Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet – Tera Raid Battle Event: Shiny Rayquaza Appears: Attention all Paldea Trainers! Get ready to encounter the elusive Shiny Rayquaza during the Tera Raid Battle Event. This dragon Tera Type Rayquaza stands out with its striking black coloration. Head to the Tera Raid crystals for this event starting Thursday, December 19 at 4 p.m. PT until Sunday, January 5 at 3:59 p.m. PT. Such opportunities don’t come around often, so now’s your chance to add this rare Pokémon to your team!
Fortnite: Brace yourself for some winter coziness in the Winterfest Cabin, available from December 20 until January 7.
EA SPORTS FC 25: Dive into the festive spirit with the Winter Wildcards campaign and spritz up your Football Ultimate Team with there’s-thematic charm in EA Sports FC 25 on your Nintendo Switch. The event kicks off December 20 and continues through January 3.
Disney Dreamlight Valley: Enjoy some seasonal fun from December 18 to December 31 with Disney Dreamlight Valley’s new events. Participate in the Build a Snowman Event, craft gifts for your Villagers, and keep your eyes peeled for surprises on December 25!
Overwatch 2: Winter Wonderland is back! Engage in festive challenges and earn rewards like the Winter Chic Widowmaker skin. There’s something for everyone with events like Mei’s Snowball Offensive and Freezethaw Elimination, available until January 6.
Rocket League: Feel the winter chill with Frosty Fest 2024! This year brings an abundance of challenges, rewards, and golden gifts from December 10 to December 31.
Apex Legends: Hop aboard for the Winter’s Haunt Event featuring the Winter Express limited-time mode. Unlock rewards with Ice Gems, explore 30 iced-out cosmetics, and don’t miss the chance for 150 Heirloom Shards, Bloodhound’s “Winter’s Bane” heirloom, and the reactive Hemlock skin, “Attunement.” Dive into the festivities now through January 6.
Nintendo Music:
High-Flying Tracks: Discover the captivating music from The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, now available on Nintendo Music, the app tailor-made for Nintendo soundtrack lovers! Explore the game’s world with thrilling tracks, exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online members.
Activities:
Tetris® 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP: Channel Princess Zelda’s wisdom and reach for the top as The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom partners with Tetris® 99 for its 44th MAXIMUS CUP event. Nintendo Switch Online members can earn 100 event points to unlock a fresh theme, featuring art, music, and Tetrimino designs inspired by the beloved Zelda game. Participate from December 19 at 11 p.m. PT to December 23 at 10:59 p.m. PT.
Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes: Even if it’s freezing outside, you can warm up with the Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes! Enter for a chance to win delightful prizes that might inspire you to create a cozy Animal Crossing-themed corner right in your living room. The sweepstakes runs through February 18, 2025, at 11 p.m. PT.
Nintendo eShop Sales:
Also New This Week: Explore a selection of new releases and don’t miss out on the latest!
