Get ready, gamers: Toronto is officially home to North America’s first Nintendo store-within-a-store, launching this weekend.
Visitors can expect everything from exclusive merchandise to Nintendo Switch 2 hardware and playable demo systems.
The one-of-a-kind, 1,500-square-foot retail space is located inside EB Games Canada’s flagship store in downtown Toronto (267 Yonge St.). The grand opening kicks off on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 10 a.m., with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“Toronto has a really enthusiastic Nintendo crowd, and to be able to bring this to life with our partners at Nintendo is incredible,” Jim Tyo, president of EB Games Canada, told Toronto.com. “I think fans will feel deeply immersed and connected with other players.”
A look inside the Nintendo experience
The retail hub brings together lifelong fans and families alike. Susan Pennefather, vice-president and general manager of Nintendo Canada, noted the space creates a way for “people to experience our games, characters and worlds in one dedicated environment.”
Here is what you can expect inside:
Photo opportunities and plush characters
There is a plush character wall in the Nintendo store-within-a-store.
Iris Peña
Step inside and you will immediately be greeted by Nintendo’s signature red branding and a giant Mario statue, a.k.a. the ultimate photo spot. To the right, shelves are packed with plush characters ranging from Kirby and Pikachu to Luigi and Mario.
Playable demos and unreleased titles
Game demos will be available.
Iris Peña
Hands-on gaming is a major highlight. Shoppers can test out titles on Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, including Pokémon Pokopia, Star Fox, Splatoon Raiders and Fire Emblem Fortune’s Weave.
A dedicated software wall features the latest releases, such as Minecraft Dungeons II Deluxe Edition, 007 First Light, Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight and Metal Gear Solid 2.
The new Legends of Zelda game launches Nov. 5.
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For franchise enthusiasts, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Nintendo Switch 2 launches on Nov. 5 in celebration of its milestone anniversary. Grand opening attendees can preorder the game with an exclusive limited-edition foil cover, available while supplies last.
Exclusive Nintendo merchandise and items
My Mario is exclusive to the Nintendo store-within-a-store.
Iris Peña
The location offers exclusive My Mario official merchandise, including a 30-piece Mario and Friends wood block set, as well as characters Mario, Princess Peach, Luigi and Yoshi in smaller three-piece sets.
Visitors can also shop a wide selection of standard gear, including Mario Lego sets, collectibles, and Pokémon model kits and figurines.