Nintendo Renames Warpstar Inc. to Nintendo Stars Inc., Expanding Movie Adaptations and IP Ventures

Nintendo is making significant moves to broaden the reach of its legendary franchises, officially announcing the renaming of its subsidiary Warpstar Inc.

to Nintendo Stars Inc.

This change, unveiled following Nintendo’s consolidation of Warpstar earlier in the year, marks a pivotal step in the company’s strategy to expand the presence of its intellectual property—especially movie adaptations—into diverse entertainment and commercial sectors. Founded on July 31, 2001, Warpstar Inc.

originally operated as a joint venture between Nintendo and HAL Laboratory, with oversight of the beloved Kirby franchise.

In addition to managing the games, Warpstar played a key role in bringing the Kirby universe to animated television, most notably with the launch of the Kirby: Right Back at Ya! anime series in 2001.

Over the years, the subsidiary has become synonymous with Kirby’s cross-media success.

On April 1, 2025, Warpstar formally transitioned into a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo. Looking ahead, Nintendo Stars Inc.

has been tasked with managing the “ancillary-use business tied to films featuring Nintendo Intellectual Property.” In practice, this broad remit covers the extension of Nintendo’s film projects into arenas such as licensed merchandise, themed events, and promotional partnerships—strategies that maximize the cultural impact and business potential behind each Nintendo movie adaptation. The company’s renewed focus on multimedia expansion comes at a time of heightened interest in Nintendo’s cinematic ventures.

Two major film projects are currently in development: the eagerly awaited sequel to The Super Mario Bros.

Movie, set for release in 2026, and the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda scheduled to debut in 2027.

In a recent casting reveal, it was announced that Bo Baragson will portray Zelda, while Benjamin Evan Ainsworth will take on the iconic role of Link. Nintendo Stars Inc.

will also continue its stewardship of the Kirby brand across multiple platforms, leveraging decades of experience in cross-media integration.

According to a Nintendo spokesperson, the company aims to "strengthen the relationship between Nintendo and its customers" by expanding its IP into new entertainment forms and experiences.

This commitment aligns with Nintendo’s recent strategies across the Nintendo Switch platform, Nintendo Direct presentations, and robust use of the eShop to connect with fans worldwide. With this strategic rebranding, Nintendo is clearly signaling its long-term ambition to foster deeper connections between its legendary franchises and global audiences—not only through games but across movies, events, and merchandise.

As the world eagerly anticipates the next wave of Nintendo films, all eyes will be on Nintendo Stars Inc.

to see how it shapes the future of entertainment beyond the console.

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