Nintendo Labo Incompatibility with Switch 2

Nintendo has just pulled back the curtain on the Nintendo Switch 2, and while they’ve given us a peek at the console—essentially a more substantial, seemingly upgraded version of the original Switch—they’ve been a bit tight-lipped about its capabilities. But there was one notable tidbit in the press release that left me feeling a touch downcast. Nintendo mentioned, “Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2.” My first instinct was to wonder if they were hinting at the fate of Labo.

Now, Labo might not have revolutionized gaming, but it sure stands out as one of Nintendo’s most whimsical, imaginative ventures. I’m a staunch defender of its quirky charm, even if I have to stand alone on that hill made of cardboard. If you never got the chance to dive into a Labo kit, let me paint a quick picture for you.

Each kit was packed with what they called “Toy-Cons.” These flat-packed pieces of cardboard came to life following an interactive guide—think assembling an IKEA piece—but a lot more fun. Once built, you’d pair it with the Switch Joy-Cons, utilizing motion and the IR sensor on the right Joy-Con. The result was magical; the cardboard contraptions transformed into engaging and delightful gaming experiences. Whether you were pretending to play a piano, steering a wheel, or snapping shots with a camera, each Toy-Con brought unique gameplay, reminiscent of the creative spirit behind Game Builder Garage.

Honestly, it was fantastic.

Back in our 2018 Game of the Year roundup, I dubbed it “one of the most ‘Nintendo’ projects ever created.” Looking back now, several years after it was silently retired, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia and loss. Nintendo has moved on without glancing back, especially now with the new Joy-Cons for Switch 2 ditching the IR feature—yet another signal of Labo’s end.

But let’s take a moment and remember the good times. Among my fondest memories was the “Monster Cat” from the Variety Kit’s Toy-Con House—a name happily given by my then four-year-old. The House, which used the Joy-Con in its chimney and display on the front, was an endless source of joy. Different adapters could be slotted in, bringing various scenarios to life on the screen. It was a clever and simple play.

Building those cardboard experiences was part of the fun, but Monster Cat became part of our family. His House and the adapters, though battered over time, still hold together with tape, glue, and a patchwork of popsicle sticks and stickers. It’s a tangible reminder of the joy Labo brought, though my second son, born in 2018, sadly never experienced it.

When Labo was on its way out in 2021, Nintendo was as discreet about its discontinuation as you might expect, removing its website before subtly confirming it was no longer available. Retailers aren’t exactly fond of stocking dust-collecting boxes from manufacturers who won’t even keep a backup marketing game going.

By the time I realized what was happening, I was scrambling, following stock alerts and rushing to every big retailer nearby. Alas, my hunt mainly turned up empty, though I did manage to snag an extra VR Kit. But what I really needed was another Variety Kit to give Monster Cat a fresh abode. Sure, Nintendo did release files for DIY reproduction—a thoughtful preservation touch—but I’ve yet to find a practical guide for replicating those kits. (Fellow enthusiasts, if you’re reading this, feel free to reach out!)

Some folks are bemoaning how the Nintendo Switch 2 plays it safe, based on what little we know from the reveal video. The original Switch was an undeniable success, and we’re all rooting for the sequel to follow suit. Hopefully, Nintendo hasn’t entirely abandoned the sort of innovative, out-of-the-box thinking that birthed Labo. Who knows? That new optical mouse sensor could spur some interesting developments. Maybe a future Monster Cat will take a liking to a virtual mouse.

(Here’s to you, Monster Cat.)