As we gear up for the holiday season, the Nintendo Switch eShop is buzzing with exciting events and challenges. This week’s offerings are brimming with festive activities, and games like Fortnite and Disney: Dreamlight Valley are really diving into the winter wonder.
Remember Pokémon Violet and Scarlet? With a whirlwind of new releases, you might have pushed these open-world gems to the back of your mind. However, now’s the perfect time to dive back in, especially with the Tera Raid Battle Event currently on. It’s running until January 5, giving you the unique chance to catch a Shiny Rayquaza.
Fortnite is all about themed adventures, and this week it’s bringing back the Winterfest Cabin until January 7. Meanwhile, EA Sports FC 25 spices things up with Winter Wildcards, and Disney: Dreamlight Valley joins the holiday cheer with its gift-giving celebration.
If none of these events catch your fancy, the ongoing eShop holiday sale might have something just for you. With massive discounts on series like Monster Hunter, Mega Man, LEGO, and Resident Evil, there’s sure to be a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. (I’ll be sharing my top finds in the next episode of the Pure Nintendo Podcast, so feel free to share yours too!)
There’s also excitement over the new Maximus Cup event in Tetris 99 to get your gaming adrenaline going, accompanied by some enchanting Zelda soundtracks available on the Nintendo Music app. Dive into the latest Nintendo hits to get the full scoop.
Here’s a rundown of all the eShop events, deals, and the freshest games released this week. So, what’s on your playlist this weekend?
Nintendo Switch Highlights
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Tera Raid Battle Event: Shiny Rayquaza Appears
Calling all Paldea Trainers! Shiny Rayquaza is making a special appearance in a Tera Raid Battle Event. This unique Rayquaza sports a Dragon Tera Type and a distinctive shiny black look, setting it apart from the usual catch. It will debut in 5-star Tera Raid Battles from December 19 at 4 p.m. PT through January 5 at 3:59 p.m. PT. This is a golden opportunity since Shiny Rayquaza can’t be captured in regular gameplay.
Fortnite
Snuggle into the Winterfest Cabin, as Winterfest kicks off tomorrow, December 20, lasting until January 7.
EA SPORTS FC 25
Get into the holiday spirit with the Winter Wildcards campaign. Deck out your Football Ultimate Team with festive favorites from December 20 through January 3 on the Nintendo Switch system.
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Join in on the Gift of Giving from December 18 to December 31. Participate in the Build a Snowman Event, craft gifts for Villagers, enjoy festive fishing, and keep an eye out for surprises on December 25!
Overwatch 2
Dive into holiday cheer with the Winter Wonderland event! Tackle challenges to earn frosty rewards like the Winter Chic Widowmaker skin. Engage in action-packed modes like Mei’s Snowball Offensive and Freezethaw Elimination until January 6.
Rocket League
Feel the chill as Frosty Fest returns for 2024! Filled with challenges, rewards, and Golden Gifts, it runs from December 10 to December 31.
Apex Legends
Hop aboard for the Winter’s Haunt Event and experience the Winter Express limited-time mode. Earn Ice Gems to unlock rewards, including Legendary Skins and more. You could also snag 150 Heirloom Shards as part of this event, continuing through January 6.
Nintendo Music
High-Flying Tracks
Enjoy the exciting sounds of the Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword soundtrack, now available on the Nintendo Music app. This app is exclusive for Nintendo Switch Online members. Check out the adventurous tracks that bring the game world to life!
Activities
Tetris® 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP
Unleash your wisdom as Princess Zelda in the 44th MAXIMUS CUP during the Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom event in Tetris® 99. For Nintendo Switch Online members, earn 100 event points to unlock a captivating new theme inspired by this Zelda installment. The event will run from December 19 at 11 p.m. PT to December 23 at 10:59 p.m. PT.
Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes
It might be chilly outside, but with the Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes, you could win prizes to warm up your living room with themed delights! Enter now until February 18, 2025, for your chance to win.
Nintendo eShop Sales
There’s so much more awaiting, so keep an eye out for all the new releases this week. Dive into the gaming festivities and make the most of your holiday fun!
