Nintendo recently announced a partnership with the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance (ISEA), a group that includes several nationwide organizations that support K-12 scholastic gaming programs.
The partnership brings Nintendo games for school-organized tournaments. Specifically, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Splatoon 3 are now available for school tournaments and events for grades 4-12, across 23 states.
As part of the partnership, Nintendo will also provide a “large quantity” of Nintendo Switch Online memberships (which are necessary to play online), and digital game codes, at no cost.
“We are so excited to partner with Nintendo as we continue to grow and expand competitive gaming opportunities for students across the country,” said Danielle Johnson, President, ISEA. “Games are a fun, communal experience. We want to make gaming accessible to as many students as possible regardless of their previous gaming experience. School-based gaming programs connect students that may have not been involved in social competitive activities before, and every student deserves a place to belong at school. These programs not only raise student attendance and achievement but also help students build healthy relationships that can last a lifetime.”
Honestly, it’s about dang time Nintendo got on board with supporting esports programs. In November 2023, Nintendo updated its guidelines and application process for individual competitive gaming organizers, making it easier to run small-scale, community tournaments (and not-for-profit) involving Nintendo games.
The ISEA is organized by teachers and educators in over 5,000 schools. Participating states include California, Florida, Indiana, New York, Texas, and Washington.
