New evidence suggests that Nintendo Labo could be phased out soon. The add-on for the Nintendo Switch has not been in the spotlight recently, adding to the theory. However, there is no official confirmation one way or the other regarding the product's status.
Nintendo Labo was first released in April 2018. In conjunction with a Nintendo Switch system, s could create cardboard constructs that would interact with specific software. It was designed as a way to interest gamers in engineering, basic programming, and other sciences. Four kits have been released since launch: the Variety Kit, Robot Kit, Vehicle Kit, and VR Kit. The Vehicle Kit and VR Kit in particular have some functionality with other Switch titles. The very concept was considered overwhelmingly "Nintendo;" something only that company, in particular, could dream up and bring to fruition.
On April 15, Akfamilyhome tweeted that the Labo website is no longer up. Instead, going to labo.nintendo.com redirects visitors to a stock store page for the VR Kit. Many are taking this as a sign that no new Labo kits will be released in the future. At worst, it's possible that the entire line could be discontinued soon. Nintendo Enthusiast did some additional research using the Wayback Machine. According to its findings, the Labo webpage vanished on March 5 but was accessible as recently as February 26. The March 5 version of the page only redirected back to the Nintendo home page, however, so at the very least the VR Kit is still getting some ment. On the other hand, locating the other Labo Kits requires a bit of digging.
The possible end of Nintendo Labo is upsetting, but not overly surprising. The last Kit released was the VR Kit in April 2019, a full two years ago. Additionally, only a small fraction of the Switch's library offers any Labo , typically more popular first-party games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. While reception for the concept was overall positive, it wasn't a huge financial success. Only the Variety Kit has broken a million units sold, as of December 2020.
There may not be any word from Nintendo on Labo's future anytime soon, if at all. The company usually only announces discontinuations and cancellations in press releases or to investors, rather than over social media. Still, it's sad to know that one of Nintendo's most ambitious and unique ideas may quietly be put out to pasture. Those interested in experiencing Nintendo Labo should do so soon, lest the experience vanish completely before they get a chance.
Source: Akfamilyhome, Nintendo Enthusiast
