As the holiday season approaches, let’s dive into what’s happening on the Nintendo Switch eShop. This week is packed with festive events and exciting challenges, with games like Fortnite and Disney Dreamlight Valley embracing the winter spirit.
Have you forgotten about Pokémon Violet and Scarlet in the midst of all the gaming madness? While they’ve been overshadowed by new releases, there’s a great reason to revisit them now. The current Tera Raid Battle Event is live until January 5, giving players the opportunity to capture a Shiny Rayquaza.
Meanwhile, Fortnite isn’t missing a beat with its themed events, reintroducing the Winterfest Cabin until January 7. EA Sports FC 25 celebrates the season with Winter Wildcards, while Disney Dreamlight Valley captures the holiday vibe with its gift-giving theme.
If these events don’t tickle your fancy, perhaps you’ll find something interesting in the massive eShop holiday sale happening right now. Enjoy significant savings on a variety of series—from Monster Hunter and Mega Man to LEGO and Resident Evil. There’s bound to be something for everyone. Personally, I’ve discovered a few gems, which I’ll talk more about in our upcoming Pure Nintendo Podcast. I’d love to hear if you find any hidden treasures of your own!
For those seeking more action, participate in the new Maximus Cup event in Tetris 99, and don’t miss out on some stunning Zelda tracks on the Nintendo Music app. You can find out more about the latest Nintendo soundtracks.
Explore the full list of eShop events, sales, and new releases below. So, what are you playing this weekend?
Nintendo Switch Highlights
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Tera Raid Battle Event: Shiny Rayquaza Appears
Paldea Trainers, get ready! A Shiny Rayquaza will be making an appearance in an upcoming Tera Raid Battle Event. This Rayquaza features a Dragon Tera Type and a unique black coloration, making it stand out from the rest. It will be available in 5-star Tera Raid Battles at Tera Raid crystals from December 19, 4 p.m. PT to January 5, 3:59 p.m. PT. Since Shiny Rayquaza isn’t normally accessible in regular gameplay, seize this chance to add it to your team!
Fortnite
Bundle up in the Winterfest Cabin as it returns from December 20 until January 7. This event is packed with seasonal fun and activities!
EA SPORTS FC 25
Celebrate the holidays with the Winter Wildcards campaign and bring some festive cheer to your Football Ultimate Team in EA Sports FC 25 on the Nintendo Switch. The Winter Wildcards event starts December 20 and goes through January 3.
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Join the Gift of Giving celebration from December 18 to December 31 in Disney Dreamlight Valley with activities like the Build a Snowman Event and crafting gifts for Villagers. Keep an eye out for surprises on December 25!
Overwatch 2
Get into the festive spirit with new challenges for Winter Wonderland! Earn rewards such as the Winter Chic Widowmaker skin. With activities ranging from Mei’s Snowball Offensive to Freezethaw Elimination, there’s something for everyone. The event is live now until January 6.
Rocket League
Feel that winter chill? Frosty Fest is back for 2024, offering sleigh loads of challenges, rewards, Golden Gifts, and more from December 10 until December 31.
Apex Legends
Hop on the Winter’s Haunt Event train, featuring the Winter Express limited-time mode! Earn Ice Gems to unlock rewards, including 30 iced-out cosmetics, Legendary Skins, and more. Don’t miss out on the chance to collect 150 Heirloom Shards, Bloodhound’s “Winter’s Bane” heirloom, and reactive Hemlock skin, “Attunement.” The event runs until January 6.
Nintendo Music
High-Flying Tracks
Immerse yourself in the epic soundscape of the Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword soundtrack, now available on Nintendo Music, a smart-device app for Nintendo soundtracks! Experience thrilling in-game music while exploring the game’s vast world and engaging in battles. Note that Nintendo Music is exclusive to Nintendo Switch Online members. For more information, visit the website.
Activities
Tetris® 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP
Channel your inner Princess Zelda and fight your way to victory in the Tetris® 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP event! From December 19 at 11 p.m. PT to December 23 at 10:59 p.m. PT, Nintendo Switch Online members can join in on the fun by playing Tetris 99 online. Collect 100 event points to unlock a new theme featuring art, music, and Tetrimino designs inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom!
Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes
While it may be chilly outside, you can stay warm indoors by entering the Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes for a chance to win a cozy collection of prizes. These prizes may inspire you to create a wintery Animal Crossing-themed scene right in your living room. Enter now through February 18, 2025, at 11 p.m. PT! For more info, visit the website.
Nintendo eShop Sales
Get ready for some fantastic new arrivals and noteworthy deals lined up for you. Stay tuned for more updates this week!
