As we gear up for the holiday season, it’s exciting to see what’s on offer over at the Nintendo Switch eShop. This week’s lineup is brimming with events and challenges, capturing the essence of wintery fun with games like Fortnite and Disney: Dreamlight Valley adopting a festive flair.
Cast your mind back to Pokémon Violet and Scarlet—an open-world adventure that’s easy to forget with so many new titles constantly emerging. However, there’s a good reason to dive back in. The current Tera Raid Battle Event, which runs until January 5, offers a rare opportunity to catch a Shiny Rayquaza.
Fortnite enthusiasts won’t be left out in the cold either, with the return of the Winterfest Cabin available until January 7. Meanwhile, EA Sports FC 25 is stirring up the Winter Wildcards, and Disney: Dreamlight Valley is embracing the holiday cheer with its wonderful Gift of Giving event.
If none of these pique your interest, certainly the eShop’s massive holiday sale will. Bargain hunters will delight in significant discounts on a variety of series, including Monster Hunter, Mega Man, LEGO, and Resident Evil. There’s surely something for everyone—I, for one, discovered some gems that I’ll talk about in the next episode of the Pure Nintendo Podcast. Share with us if you stumble upon any hidden gems during your exploration!
For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Tetris 99 is hosting a new Maximus Cup event. Plus, there’s some fantastic Zelda music available on the Nintendo Music app, perfect as a soundtrack to your gaming adventures.
Explore this week’s complete lineup of eShop events, deals, and new games below. What will you be diving into this weekend?
Nintendo Switch Highlights
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet – Tera Raid Battle Event: Shiny Rayquaza
Calling all Paldea Trainers: Get ready to capture a Shiny Rayquaza in the upcoming Tera Raid Battle Event! This special Rayquaza, which sports a distinct black coloration and Dragon Tera Type, will appear in 5-star Tera Raid Battles from December 19 at 4 p.m. PT until January 5 at 3:59 p.m. PT. Join the hunt and add this elusive Pokémon to your collection, as it can’t be encountered during regular gameplay!
Fortnite
Get cozy for the return of Winterfest starting December 20 through January 7.
EA SPORTS FC 25
Get into the holiday spirit with the Winter Wildcards campaign. Deck out your Football Ultimate Team with festive favorites from December 20 until January 3 on Nintendo Switch.
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Embrace the Gift of Giving from December 18 to December 31 with the in-game event. Build snowmen, craft presents for Villagers, enjoy festive fishing, and stay tuned for surprises on December 25!
Overwatch 2
Celebrate Winter Wonderland with themed challenges and icy rewards, including the Winter Chic Widowmaker skin. Join in the fun, from Mei’s Snowball Offensive to Freezethaw Elimination, now until January 6.
Rocket League
Feel that festive chill with the return of Frosty Fest 2024! Enjoy a sleigh full of challenges, rewards, and Golden Gifts from December 10 to December 31.
Apex Legends
All aboard the Winter’s Haunt Event with the Winter Express LTM! Gather Ice Gems to unlock amazing rewards, including Legendary Skins and heirloom items. The event runs until January 6.
Nintendo Music
High-Flying Tracks
Savor the heroic melodies from the Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword soundtrack on Nintendo Music, exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online members. Dive into the epic sounds that accompany the game’s exploration and battles.
Activities
Tetris 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP
Channel Princess Zelda’s wisdom in the Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom event! Accumulate 100 event points by participating in Tetris 99 online between December 19 at 11 p.m. PT and December 23 at 10:59 p.m. PT to unlock a unique theme inspired by Zelda’s iconic art and music.
Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes
Warm up with the Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes! Enter for a chance to win a cozy collection of prizes, perfect for crafting a snug Animal Crossing scene in your home. Enter now through February 18, 2025, at 11 p.m. PT!
