As the holiday season springs into action, let’s take a moment to dive into what’s buzzing over at the Nintendo Switch eShop. This week’s lineup is all about exciting events and challenges, featuring festive offerings from games like Fortnite and Disney: Dreamlight Valley.
Don’t forget about Pokémon Violet and Scarlet! With so many new titles out there, it might be easy to overlook these open-world adventures. However, there’s a compelling reason to jump back in—the ongoing Tera Raid Battle Event. Running until January 5, this event gives you a chance to catch a Shiny Rayquaza, a rare gem to add to your collection.
Meanwhile, Fortnite fans can rejoice as the Winterfest Cabin makes a delicious return, sticking around until January 7. On the pitch in EA Sports FC 25, players can indulge in the Winter Wildcards, while Disney: Dreamlight Valley embraces the season’s generosity through delightful events.
If none of these seasonal events pique your interest, perhaps the massive holiday sale on the eShop will. Countless discounts are available across beloved series like Monster Hunter, Mega Man, LEGO, and Resident Evil. There’s surely a deal to entice you—I’ve already found a few choice picks that I’ll be sharing in our next episode of the Pure Nintendo Podcast, so let us know if you discover any hidden treasures of your own.
In other news, Tetris 99 is hosting a new Maximus Cup to spice things up, and the Nintendo Music app features high-flying Zelda tracks to satisfy your musical cravings. For more details on the latest Nintendo soundtrack, keep reading.
Now, let’s explore the full list of eShop events, deals, and game releases below. Got any exciting gaming plans for the weekend?
Nintendo Switch Highlights
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Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet Tera Raid Battle Event: Shiny Rayquaza – Attention, Paldea Trainers! Shiny Rayquaza is making a special appearance in a Tera Raid Battle Event. This event-exclusive Pokémon sports a dragon Tera Type and striking black coloration. Look for it in 5-star Tera Raid Battles from December 19 at 4 p.m. PT to January 5 at 3:59 p.m. PT—don’t miss out on this rare chance to add it to your ranks!
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Fortnite – Get comfortable in the Winterfest Cabin, returning from December 20 to January 7.
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EA SPORTS FC 25 – Dive into the Winter Wildcards campaign and add some festive flair to your Ultimate Team squad starting December 20 through January 3 on the Nintendo Switch.
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Disney Dreamlight Valley – Join the Gift of Giving event from December 18 to 31. Engage in festive activities like the Build a Snowman Event, crafting gifts for Villagers, fishing for festivity, and watch for surprises on December 25!
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Overwatch 2 – Celebrate with Winter Wonderland challenges and earn frosty perks like the Winter Chic Widowmaker skin. This festive event continues until January 6.
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Rocket League – Feel that chill? It’s Frosty Fest time for 2024! Take on exciting challenges and earn rewards from December 10 to 31.
- Apex Legends – Step aboard the Winter’s Haunt Event featuring the Winter Express limited-time mode! Collect Ice Gems for rewards, including icy cosmetics and the chance to unlock rare Heirloom Shards. This thrilling event is live through January 6.
Nintendo Music
- High-Flying Tracks – Enjoy the epic soundscape of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword courtesy of Nintendo Music, now available to Nintendo Switch Online members. Dive into mesmerizing tracks as you embark on epic quests and fierce battles.
Activities
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Tetris 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP – Summon Princess Zelda’s wisdom and climb to the top during the Tetris 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP featuring a special Zelda-themed event. Complete challenges from December 19 at 11 p.m. PT to December 23 at 10:59 p.m. PT to earn exclusive rewards!
- Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes – Snuggle up and enter the chance to win some heartwarming prizes with the Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes. Open now until February 18, 2025, at 11 p.m. PT.
Nintendo eShop Sales: Be sure to check out an array of new deals this week!
And that wraps up this week’s highlights! What will you be playing this weekend? Let’s chat in the comments!