This Week’s eShop Roundup: Exciting Events, Hot Deals, New Music, and More!

As we gear up for the holiday season, let’s dive into the latest happenings on the Nintendo Switch eShop. This week is packed with festive events and exciting challenges. You’ll find favorites like Fortnite and Disney’s Dreamlight Valley getting into the holiday spirit with winter-themed activities.

Do you remember Pokémon Violet/Scarlet? With so many new releases, it’s easy for this open-world adventure to slip from your mind. Yet, there’s a great reason to revisit it: the current Tera Raid Battle Event. Running until January 5, this event lets you catch a Shiny Rayquaza, a rare opportunity not available in regular gameplay.

Speaking of themed adventures, Fortnite brings back the Winterfest Cabin, which is open until January 7. EA Sports FC 25 is introducing Winter Wildcards, while Disney’s Dreamlight Valley is celebrating with the Gift of Giving event.

If these events don’t pique your interest, the huge holiday sale on the eShop might. From Monster Hunter to Mega Man, LEGO to Resident Evil, there are massive discounts on a wide array of games. I’m already eyeing a few gems, which I’ll discuss in our next Pure Nintendo Podcast episode. Find your own hidden treasures and let us know what you discover!

There’s more to enjoy besides these events: a new Maximus Cup event in Tetris 99 offers some Nintendo nostalgia, accompanied by some thrilling Zelda music now available on the Nintendo Music app. For more on the latest Nintendo soundtrack releases, keep on reading.

Check out the full lineup of eShop events, deals, and new titles below. What’s your game of choice this weekend?

Nintendo Switch Events:

• Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Tera Raid Battle Event: Shiny Rayquaza Appears – Trainers in Paldea, get ready! You can now encounter a Shiny Rayquaza during a special Tera Raid Battle Event. This unique Rayquaza, featuring a striking black color and Dragon Tera Type, will be available in 5-star Tera Raid Battles from December 19 at 4 p.m. PT to January 5 at 3:59 p.m. PT.

• Fortnite – Winterfest is back! Cozy up in the Winterfest Cabin from December 20 to January 7.

• EA SPORTS FC 25 – Spread some holiday cheer with the Winter Wildcards campaign, which kicks off December 20 and runs through January 3, allowing you to add a festive touch to your Football Ultimate Team on the Nintendo Switch.

• Disney Dreamlight Valley – From December 18 to December 31, join the Gift of Giving event. Build a snowman, craft presents for Villagers, fish festive surprises, and be on the lookout for special treats on December 25!

• Overwatch 2 – Enter a world of winter fun with Winter Wonderland. Take on challenges to earn cool rewards like the Winter Chic Widowmaker skin. This event includes Mei’s Snowball Offensive and Freezethaw Elimination, adding excitement from now until January 6.

• Rocket League – Feel the frosty vibes as Frosty Fest returns for 2024! Dive into challenges, reap rewards, and unwrap Golden Gifts between December 10 and December 31.

• Apex Legends – The Winter’s Haunt Event offers a thrilling ride with the Winter Express limited-time mode. Earn Ice Gems and unlock new rewards, including 30 epic cosmetics, 150 Heirloom Shards, and Bloodhound’s “Winter’s Bane” heirloom, until January 6.

Nintendo Music:

• High-Flying Tracks – Immerse yourself in the breathtaking Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword soundtrack, now on Nintendo Music. Available exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online members, explore the game’s world with epic tracks for exploration and battles.

Activities:

• Tetris 99 44th MAXIMUS CUP – Channel the wisdom of Princess Zelda and rise to the top in the latest MAXIMUS CUP! Play the online mode from December 19 to December 23, collecting 100 event points to unlock a new theme inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.

• Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes – Although it’s chilly outside, you can enter the Animal Crossing Cozy Winter Sweepstakes for a chance to win some heartwarming prizes. The contest is on until February 18, 2025.

Nintendo eShop Sales – Explore a treasure trove of discounted games across various franchises.

So, what new game are you tackling this weekend? Let us know!