Do Amiibo Cards Work the Same as Figures? Unveiling the Secrets of Nintendo’s Interactive Collectibles
Yes, amiibo cards and amiibo figures fundamentally work the same way. Both utilize Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology to interact with compatible Nintendo games. While their physical form differs, their functionality – triggering in-game events, unlocking content, and saving data – is essentially identical. The core difference lies in collectibility, storage, and, often, cost. One might be drawn to the tactile satisfaction of a detailed figure, while another appreciates the convenience and affordability of a slim card.
Understanding the Core Functionality
The heart of an amiibo, regardless of its form, is the NFC chip embedded within. When you tap an amiibo card or figure to your Nintendo Switch, Wii U, or New Nintendo 3DS, the system reads the data stored on the chip. This data then triggers a specific action within the game, as programmed by the developers. This could range from unlocking a special costume for your Mii Fighter in Super Smash Bros. to summoning helpful items in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
The key takeaway is that the game recognizes the amiibo, not the form it takes. Therefore, a Link amiibo card will grant the same in-game benefits as a Link amiibo figure, assuming both are compatible with the same game. This interchangeability provides players with flexibility in how they choose to engage with amiibo.
The Allure of Collectibility
While functionality is similar, the world of amiibo is heavily influenced by collectibility. Amiibo figures often boast intricate designs and represent beloved characters, making them appealing display pieces. Some figures are rarer than others, driving up their value in the secondary market. This collectibility factor contributes to their higher price point compared to cards.
Amiibo cards, on the other hand, are generally more affordable and easier to store. The complete sets of Animal Crossing amiibo cards, for example, allow players to invite specific villagers to their islands in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Their compact size makes them convenient for travel and organization.
Data Storage Considerations
One crucial aspect to consider is data storage. An amiibo can only save data for one game at a time. This means that if you use an amiibo to save progress in Super Smash Bros., you’ll need to delete that data before using it to save data in another game with read/write compatibility. The game that uses amiibo figure has to have a save data feature for the amiibo itself. This limitation applies to both figures and cards. However, some games only read data from amiibo and don’t write any data back. In these cases, an amiibo can be used across multiple games without needing to delete data.
The Third-Party Market and Fake Amiibo
It’s important to note the existence of third-party amiibo cards. These cards are not officially licensed by Nintendo but attempt to replicate the functionality of official amiibo. While they may work, their legality is questionable, and their quality can vary significantly. The article you cited states that Nintendo may take action against bootleg amiibo card sellers.
Can Nintendo detect fake amiibo?
The cited article states that Nintendo has no way of knowing you used a fake amiibo. The Switch detects them all the same. This might make them more appealing to some gamers but beware buying from unauthorized sources because you might get a bad product.
FAQs: Your Comprehensive Amiibo Guide
1. Can you use the same amiibo for different games?
Yes, but with a caveat. An amiibo can save data for only one game at a time. If you want to use an amiibo with a different game that also saves data to it, you’ll need to erase the existing data first.
2. Are all Animal Crossing amiibo cards the same?
No. There are multiple series of Animal Crossing amiibo cards. Each series contains a variety of villagers and special characters.
3. Can you use the same amiibo multiple times per day?
In some games, yes. In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, for example, you can use each compatible amiibo once per day (per Nintendo Account) after unlocking the amiibo rune.
4. Why are amiibo cards so cheap compared to figures?
Typically, it’s because most cards are manufactured by a third-party, not Nintendo.
5. Can Nintendo detect fake amiibo cards?
The provided article suggest that Nintendo has no way of knowing if you’re using a fake amiibo.
6. Is it worth collecting amiibo?
It depends on your priorities. Amiibo can unlock in-game content and enhance your gameplay experience. They also make appealing collectibles. However, some amiibo offer more significant benefits than others.
7. Can amiibo cards be shared between friends?
Yes, particularly in games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, where you can use cards to invite villagers to each other’s islands.
8. Do second-hand amiibo work?
Yes, especially for games that don’t save data to the amiibo.
9. Can amiibo cards be reused in Animal Crossing?
Yes, you can reuse amiibo cards as many times as you want within the game’s limitations (e.g., inviting one villager per day).
10. How many Animal Crossing amiibo cards are there in total?
Including promotional cards, there are over 500 Animal Crossing amiibo cards.
11. Can amiibo cards replace villagers in Animal Crossing?
Yes, if your island is at maximum capacity, you can use an amiibo card to replace a current villager with the one on the card.
12. Are Animal Crossing amiibo card packs random?
Yes, each pack contains a randomly selected assortment of cards.
13. How many amiibo cards can you use at once?
This varies by game. Some games allow you to use multiple amiibo per day, while others limit you to one.
14. Is it illegal to copy amiibo?
Selling prefabricated amiibo bootlegs can potentially fall under copyright infringement.
15. What happens if you use a fake amiibo?
The game typically cannot differentiate between an official and a homemade amiibo.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both amiibo cards and figures offer a gateway to enhanced gaming experiences. Whether you prefer the collectibility of figures or the affordability of cards, the core functionality remains consistent. Understanding the nuances of data storage and the implications of third-party products is crucial for making informed decisions within the amiibo ecosystem.
To learn more about the intersection of games and learning, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.