Nintendo Teams Up with ISEA to Expand Scholastic Esports with Super Smash Bros., Splatoon 3, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Nintendo of America has announced a landmark partnership with the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance (ISEA), aiming to expand and enrich gaming competitions in schools across the United States.

This collaboration will allow students in grades 4 through 12 from 23 states to participate in organized tournaments and events utilizing three of Nintendo’s most popular titles—Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate, Splatoon 3, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe—on the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED Model platforms. The initiative is poised to benefit up to 80,000 elementary, middle, and high school students, offering them a dynamic pathway to engage in social, accessible, and rewarding competitive gaming experiences.

As part of this endeavor, Nintendo has committed to providing a substantial quantity of Nintendo Switch Online memberships and digital game download codes at no cost, removing key barriers to entry for young competitors and their educators. ISEA President Danielle Johnson underscored the value of inclusive esports opportunities in schools, stating that the organization is enthusiastic about the partnership with Nintendo as it works to expand competitive gaming to a wider student population.

In her statement, Johnson emphasized that games serve as a vibrant communal experience and that their mission is to make gaming accessible to students, regardless of their prior exposure to video games.

She highlighted that school-based gaming programs offer a sense of belonging to students who may not typically participate in other competitive or social activities, stating that every student deserves a supportive community within their school environment.

Furthermore, Johnson noted that such programs can drive improvements in student attendance and achievement while fostering the development of healthy, lasting relationships. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing growth of scholastic esports, blending Nintendo’s iconic game franchises and hardware platforms with ISEA’s commitment to fostering community and inclusive participation through competitive gaming.

By leveraging the appeal of Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate, Splatoon 3, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe—games renowned for their broad appeal and lively multiplayer action—Nintendo and ISEA are setting a new standard for accessibility and involvement in the educational esports sector. For educators and students interested in learning more about upcoming tournaments or joining local state esports organizations, further information can be found on the official ISEA website.

As Nintendo and ISEA move forward with their partnership, the Nintendo Switch continues to be a driving force in connecting players of all ages through engaging, community-focused competitions.

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