Yesterday, Nintendo pulled back the curtain on the Nintendo Switch 2. At first glance, it looks like a larger and presumably more advanced Switch. However, aside from showcasing the console, Nintendo was pretty tight-lipped about the specifics of its capabilities. There is, however, something noteworthy in their press release—something it won’t do, and though it doesn’t exactly cause alarm, it does stir a touch of disappointment. They mentioned, “Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2.” I couldn’t help but immediately wonder if this hints at the end for Labo.
Nintendo Labo might not have taken the gaming world by storm, but it’s undeniably one of Nintendo’s quirkiest and most delightful endeavors. It’s a unique blend of creativity and playfulness that I wholeheartedly champion. For those who missed out on the joy of piecing together a Labo kit, here’s a quick glimpse into the experience.
Each kit featured a collection of “Toy-Cons” crafted from flat-packed cardboard, accompanied by interactive instructions that had a hint of IKEA about them. Once built, you’d pop your Switch Joy-Cons into these cardboard marvels, and through the magic of motion sensors, the indispensable IR sensor on the right Joy-Con, paired with some clever software, the cardboard came to life in a surprisingly engaging way. These tactile Toy-Cons – like a piano, steering wheel, or camera – could be used with simple games, and they even allowed users to design their own creative experiences, somewhat akin to Nintendo’s later offering, Game Builder Garage.
It was, in short, a stroke of genius.
Back in 2018, when I was compiling our year-end game list, I described it as “one of the most quintessentially ‘Nintendo’ projects ever.” Reflecting on it now, five years after it quietly faded away, brings a bittersweet feeling. The absence of IR sensors in the Switch 2’s new Joy-Cons serves as another reminder that Labo’s saga has reached its end.
But just for a moment, indulge me as we look back at its heyday. I feel grateful for moments spent with “Monster Cat,” as my preschooler affectionately named him—the whimsical resident of the Variety Kit’s Toy-Con House. This creation welcomed the right Joy-Con in its chimney, the Switch display on its facade, and a variety of adapters that could be positioned on any side of the House. Each adapter combination led to new on-screen scenarios—simple, amusing, and refreshingly original.
The journey from flat cardboard to interactive toy was a huge part of the magic, yet Monster Cat was special. He became a regular feature in our living room for years, with his House and the much-abused adapters enduring countless repairs. Tape, glue, popsicle sticks, and stickers now hold it together, telling a tale of fun fostered by Labo—a story that, regretfully, wasn’t passed down to my second son, born in 2018.
I confess that I didn’t fully realize Labo was being phased out in 2021. True to form, Nintendo was vague about its discontinuation, even going so far as to remove the website while still claiming it was available. Retailers, understandably, prefer not to hold onto bulky, unsold items from a manufacturer that’s no longer providing even the most basic promotional support.
When I eventually noticed what was going on, I combed through stock trackers and dashed to local stores, only to find their Labo supplies had long been cleared out. I managed to snag an extra VR Kit, though my heart was set on another Variety Kit, as our Monster Cat needed a new residence. Nintendo’s kind gesture of releasing the files so fans could recreate the kits was appreciated, but despite some digging, I haven’t found a method that seems viable. (If any fellow enthusiasts can offer guidance, feel free to email me!)
There’s a general sense of letdown over the Nintendo Switch 2’s seemingly cautious approach, and the unveiling did little to change that perception. The Switch was a tremendous success, and while we’re all hopeful for the Switch 2 to follow suit, it’d be a shame if that inventive spirit that led to Labo doesn’t make a comeback. Maybe—just maybe—that optical mouse sensor could bring some new opportunities for fun. A new-generation Monster Cat might have a fondness for a mouse.
(Much love, Monster Cat).
