As we gear up for the holiday season, it’s time to dive into the latest happenings on the Nintendo Switch eShop. This week’s selection is packed with festive events and exciting challenges, featuring games like Fortnite and Disney: Dreamlight Valley stepping into the winter wonderland.
Think back to Pokémon Violet and Scarlet—remember those adventures? With the influx of new games since their release, it’s easy for this dynamic duo to slip into the background. However, there’s still plenty of reasons to bring them back into the spotlight, especially with the ongoing Tera Raid Battle Event. This event, running until January 5, gives you a unique opportunity to catch a Shiny Rayquaza.
Fortnite continues its tradition of themed adventures, reintroducing the Winterfest Cabin, available until January 7. EA Sports FC 25 embraces the holiday spirit with its Winter Wildcards, and Disney: Dreamlight Valley adds to the joyous season with a focus on the gift of giving.
If these events aren’t quite what you’re looking for, the massive holiday sale on the eShop might spark some interest. They’ve slashed prices across an impressive array of series, including Monster Hunter, Mega Man, LEGO, and Resident Evil. There’s a treasure trove of discounts, and I’ve personally uncovered some deals which I’ll talk about in our next Pure Nintendo Podcast episode. Don’t forget to share any hidden eShop discoveries you stumble upon!
Adding to the excitement, there’s a new Maximus Cup event in Tetris 99 to get your competitive spirit going, combined with some epic Zelda tunes on the Nintendo Music app. Be sure to explore more about the newest Nintendo soundtrack offerings.
Below is the complete lineup of eShop events, exclusive deals, and newly launched games. What will you be diving into this weekend?
Nintendo Switch Highlights
Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet Tera Raid Battle Event: Shiny Rayquaza Appears
Calling all Trainers in Paldea! Get ready for the chance to encounter a Shiny Rayquaza during the Tera Raid Battle Event! This unique Pokémon has a Dragon Tera Type and sports a sleek black hue, setting it apart from the usual Rayquaza look. Join this rare event to add it to your team by catching it in 5-star Tera Raid Battles at Tera Raid crystals. The event runs from Thursday, Dec. 19 at 4 p.m. PT until Sunday, Jan. 5 at 3:59 p.m. PT.
Fortnite – Winterfest Returns
Snuggle up at the Winterfest Cabin as Fortnite brings back its beloved Winterfest from Dec. 20 through Jan. 7.
EA SPORTS FC 25 – Winter Wildcards
Feel the holiday vibes with the Winter Wildcards campaign, decking out your Football Ultimate Team with festive flair on Nintendo Switch. This campaign kicks off on Dec. 20 and continues until Jan. 3.
Disney Dreamlight Valley – Celebrate the Gift of Giving
Join the festivities from Dec. 18 to Dec. 31 in Disney Dreamlight Valley’s in-game event! Take part in the Build a Snowman Event, craft delightful gifts for Villagers, indulge in festive fishing, and watch for surprises on Dec. 25!
Overwatch 2 – Winter Wonderland
Unleash wintry fun as Winter Wonderland makes its comeback! Tackle challenges to earn frosty rewards, including the Winter Chic Widowmaker skin. Enjoy festive modes like Mei’s Snowball Offensive and Freezethaw Elimination until Jan. 6.
Rocket League – Frosty Fest 2024
Feeling that chill? It signals the return of Frosty Fest for 2024! This year brings an abundance of challenges, rewards, Golden Gifts, and more from Dec. 10 until Dec. 31.
Apex Legends – Winter’s Haunt Event
Board the Winter Express LTM and earn Ice Gems to unlock a host of rewards in the Reward Shop. Choose from 30 frosty cosmetics, featuring Legendary Skins and more, with a chance to gain 150 Heirloom Shards, Bloodhound’s “Winter’s Bane” heirloom, and the reactive Hemlock skin, “Attunement.” This event is ongoing through Jan. 6.
Nintendo Music
High-Flying Tracks
Enjoy the majestic melodies of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, now available on Nintendo Music, the all-new app for Nintendo soundtracks! Nintendo Music offers exclusive content for Nintendo Switch Online members.
Activities
Tetris® 99’s 44th MAXIMUS CUP
Harness the wisdom of Princess Zelda in the 44th MAXIMUS CUP event of Tetris® 99! As the Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom joins the fray, Nintendo Switch Online members playing Tetris 99 online can accumulate 100 event points to unlock a fresh theme featuring art, music, and Tetrimino designs inspired by the game. This vibrant event runs from Dec. 19 at 11 p.m. PT to Dec. 23 at 10:59 p.m. PT.
Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes
Though it’s chilly outside, warm up with the Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes! Enter for a chance to win a collection of cozy prizes that might inspire you to craft a snug Animal Crossing-themed scene in your own space. Enter now through Feb. 18, 2025, at 11 p.m. PT.
Explore more deals in the Nintendo eShop and discover newly released games to enrich your holiday gaming experience!
