Nintendo Takes Action: SmashTogether App Shut Down Ahead of Launch

Nintendo Blocks SmashTogether Dating App Just Before Launch Nintendo has once again demonstrated its commitment to protecting its intellectual property by issuing a cease and desist order to the creators of SmashTogether, a dating app built exclusively for fans of the Super Smash Bros.

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SmashTogether, which was initially announced in June 2024 and marketed as the “premium dating app for Smashers,” aimed to help players connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for Nintendo’s flagship fighting game. The developers of SmashTogether described the app as a platform boasting a “robust matchmaking algorithm, tailored to connect you with your ideal Smash Partner.” The service was scheduled to enter open beta just a day before Nintendo stepped in, ending the project before it could reach audiences on a larger scale.

According to the app’s creators, approximately 400 users had registered during its pre-launch phase, indicating a niche yet enthusiastic segment of the Super Smash Bros.

community was interested in the concept. In a statement shared by the SmashTogether team on social media, the creators noted that the cease and desist notice from Nintendo arrived just 24 hours before the app’s planned public rollout.

"We received a legal order from Nintendo, which means SmashTogether will not be going live as intended," the team remarked, stressing the abruptness and finality of the decision. The move comes as little surprise to those acquainted with Nintendo’s history of vigorously protecting its brands and IP within the Nintendo Switch landscape and beyond.

Over the years, Nintendo has issued similar legal actions to projects that utilize its trademarks without permission, especially as the popularity of Super Smash Bros.

continues to drive massive engagement not only on Nintendo Switch but across competitive and fan-driven platforms worldwide. Super Smash Bros., developed by Masahiro Sakurai and released on the Nintendo Switch as Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate in December 2018, is one of Nintendo’s most successful and community-driven franchises, with sales surpassing 30 million units globally.

The eShop, digital events like Nintendo Direct, and grassroots tournaments have all contributed to the game’s thriving presence, but Nintendo has shown a consistent stance on protecting how its properties are represented online and in fan projects. While SmashTogether’s innovative approach illustrated the intersection of dating culture and gaming fandom, Nintendo’s prompt legal response underscores the importance the company places on controlling its brand associations—especially when it comes to sensitive subject matter.

As a result, Super Smash Bros.

fans looking to find meaningful connections will now need to rely on traditional avenues both on and off the Nintendo Switch platform. Despite the abrupt shutdown, the story of SmashTogether serves as a reminder to developers and the gaming community: any usage of iconic Nintendo brands, whether through apps, events, or other fan initiatives, should be carefully considered and formally authorized to avoid running afoul of one of the industry’s most protective publishers.

Super Smash Bros Nintendo Smash Bros Super Smash Bros. SmashTogether Nintendo Switch