Get ready for what might be the next thing your kids will want for their birthday, Nintendo Labo. It’s a set of DIY tools made out of cardboard sheets that transforms the Switch console into an augmented reality-esque experience. See the launch video here.
Using the cardboard components, players can create pianos, houses, robots, or a motorcycle! All of this gets powered by the Joy-Con controller, essentially creating the Toy-Con. For the initial launch, the Labo will come with standalone kits and an assortment of designs and parts. Furthermore, it will also include the Switch cartridge that holds the software that will play the built kits. Two will come out for retail upon launch: a USD 70 variety pack, and an USD 80 for a wearable robo-suit.
This announcement may come as a surprise for many, especially for adults who might have expected something else. However, Nintendo clearly thought out of the box on this one, and intends for it to be a discovery tool for children. For now though, we can only speculate on how popular this will get.
Nintendo Labo goes on sale on April 20th in the US and April 27th in Europe. In the meantime, Nintendo will host 3-hour Labo Studio events where players get to use Labo in person. However, adults need to bring a 6-12 year old child. Plus, they need to act fast, as Nintendo will only provide limited space.