Answers to Top amiibo Questions (amiibo FAQ)
Where can I find out which games an amiibo figure is compatible with?
For more information please visit the amiibo page.
What do I need in order to play with amiibo?
You will need an amiibo figure, a compatible game and a compatible device (Nintendo Switch, Wii U, New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS XL or New Nintendo 2DS XL). Other Nintendo 3DS family systems are also compatible with amiibo figures, but require the Nintendo 3DS NFC Reader/Writer.
Do all amiibo figures work with all compatible games?
Each amiibo may work with different compatible games in distinct ways. While a Mario amiibo figure will allow players to battle alongside it in the Super Smash Bros. for Wii U game, the same Mario amiibo will grant them a special Mario racing suit for their Mii characters in Mario Kart 8. For more information about amiibo-specific game features, please visit the amiibo page and select the "Games" tab for information about game compatibility. Some games, like Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, will save data to the amiibo, while other games, like Mario Kart 8 and Hyrule Warriors, will give you bonus content just for tapping an amiibo to the Wii U GamePad.
What do amiibo figures do?
Specific features depend on the amiibo and the compatible game. In general, some games (like Super Smash Bros. for Wii U) will save certain game data to the amiibo figure. Other games (like Mario Kart 8 and Hyrule Warriors) will give you bonus content just for tapping an amiibo to the Wii U GamePad. Please visit the amiibo page for more information.
Do amiibo figures need batteries?
No, they don't.
How many games can I save to a single amiibo figure at the same time?
An amiibo can save data for one game at a time, so game data will need to be erased on an amiibo before it can be used with another game with read/write compatibility. To review the read/write functionality of current games, click here.
If I already have Super Smash Bros. for Wii U or Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS game data saved on an amiibo, can I still use that amiibo in other compatible games?
You can still use your amiibo to get bonus items in games like Mario Kart 8 and Hyrule Warriors; however, you will need to delete the current save data on the amiibo before using it with another read/write-compatible game.
Can I use a single amiibo figure on my Mario Kart 8 game and my friend’s Mario Kart 8 game so that we both get access to the Mii Racing Suit?
Yes, for games that do not save data to the amiibo figures, a single figure can be used with multiple copies of the same game.
What does the amiibo settings menu on my Nintendo Switch console/Wii U console/New Nintendo 3DS system do?
This menu lets you link an amiibo with its owner's Mii and nickname, as well as delete game data if you'd like to use the amiibo with a different read/write-compatible game.
Do you have to have an amiibo figure in order to play amiibo-compatible games?
You can still play all amiibo-compatible games without using an amiibo figure. Using an amiibo figure is optional and will simply add new elements to the gameplay (depending on the game).
Can I play as my amiibo in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U or Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS?
In Super Smash Bros., players can battle against amiibo fighters, team up with them, or send them in against their friends' amiibo fighters in a multiplayer battle. Players do not have direct control over their amiibo fighters in-game.