Nintendo of America has entered into a partnership with the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance (ISEA) to broaden access to competitive gaming among school-aged students. The initiative, launching this autumn, will incorporate Nintendo Switch titles such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Splatoon 3 into organised tournaments for students from grades 4 to 12. This programme is expected to reach more than 80,000 pupils across 23 states in the US.
The collaboration aims to foster social interaction and inclusivity through gaming, encouraging students regardless of prior experience to engage in friendly competition. Nintendo will support the initiative by supplying a substantial number of Nintendo Switch Online memberships and digital game codes at no cost.
ISEA President Danielle Johnson emphasised the benefits of school-based esports programmes, noting they not only enhance student attendance and academic performance but also help cultivate long-lasting social connections. “Every student deserves a place to belong at school,” Johnson said, highlighting the role of gaming in creating communal experiences.
This partnership builds on Nintendo of America’s 2023 efforts to streamline its competitive gaming event policies, making it simpler for organisers to host not-for-profit community tournaments for Nintendo’s copyrighted games.
Bill Trinen, Nintendo’s Vice President of Player and Product Experience, commented that working with ISEA supports the creation of inclusive and enjoyable gaming experiences for young players: “We support kids who want to celebrate their passion – or discover a new passion – by getting involved in memorable cooperative and competitive play experiences.”
