Nintendo amiibo (plural “amiibo”) started as Nintendo attempted to join the trend of combining physical toys with actual games. The figurines quickly took off and became the craze of the moment. Although the amiibo brands are not as hot as they were in 2015 (a year after their launch), they have still outlasted the competition and are one of the best game figures every Nintendo player should have.

These figures come in many forms, such as small trading cards and miniature representations of real game characters, and can add functionality to your game. You can use them to unlock special features such as weapons, cosmetic items, or tools.

The amiibo is arguably one of the best things the Nintendo brand has made, especially now that they are supported on all Nintendo devices. And although they are waning in demand, they are still as elegant as they were in 2014 when they were first introduced on the Wii U.

This article will show you some of the best Nintendo amiibo you can buy now. We choose these figures based on the character they present, their in-game utility, and their sculpt quality. And although we focused more on quality than pricing, most of the amiibo in this list are affordable and can be scanned into a good dozen games interchangeably.

Link is featured in the Legend of Zelda series as a character on a mysterious island. Link must gather medical instruments and stir up the Wind Fish to escape the island and its strange inhabitants. Anyone who is a fan of Link or has played the Legend of Zelda series will approach the beauty and functionality of this amiibo.

As part of its in-game value, the Link amiibo also works well as a great collectible. It looks like they took the actual Link character from the game and made him into a miniature model. The detailing and likeness are impressive by any standards. The figurine also has a shiny appeal to its appearance. It's also enough to endure multiple uses and soft landings.

In terms of game functionality, you can use the amiibo to unlock Dark Link in Link's Awakening and Breath of the Wild. You should know that when you use this amiibo for Super Smash Brothers Ultimate, it scans as Link, not a Young Link or Toon Link.

This piece is an excellent choice for anyone looking to start or complete their Zelda Nintendo amiibo collection. It's very colorful, has a handsome design, and comes with a gloss finish. The packaging leaves much to be desired, and the condition of the packaging when you receive the amiibo can be a hit or miss. But unless you're a collector that takes great pride in packaging, it is not an issue.

Key Features
  • Based on the Super Mario series
  • Offers new experiences within each corresponding game
  • Designed to interact with compatible games
  • Compatible with Mario Kart 8
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Nintendo Rosalina amiibo (SM Series)Nintendo Rosalina amiibo (SM Series)
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Excellent gift idea for adults and children
  • High-quality construction
  • Perfect resemblance to the source character
  • Sturdy construction
Cons
  • Limited in-game functionality
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Nintendo Amiibo - Link: The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening Series Nintendo Amiibo - Link: The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening Series

Alm and Celica are two amiibo you don't want to miss out on. They are available as a 2-pack set, and you can pick up a set at an affordable price. While they are great for all Nintendo lovers, those familiar with Celica's dungeon will get a blast out of this. Of course, much lore and fighting are involved, but with these two amiibo, you can easily scale through and perhaps complete all of Celica's dungeon.

In strategic battles, Celica can be a great game-changer when used smartly. However, there is no loss in having both figures in your arsenal. They could come in handy in tight corners.

Let's leave in-game functionality and talk about these two beauties. They have intricate details on them that give you the impression that you are staring at the actual characters. The likeness is so poignant and uncanny. The brick-style texture at the base of each character provides a premium feel and gives extra grip to the models. The colors and sculpting are great too. Overall, you get the impression that the manufacturers paid much attention to getting the detailing right.

Avid fans may look at the faces as a bit of imperfection in the entire detailing. The detailing on the clothing, hair, and posse is impressive. You can proudly display it on your favorite shelf or desk in your home.

Key Features
  • Recommended for children ages 6+
  • Designed to interact with compatible games
  • Offers new experiences within each corresponding game
  • Provides music and some random items
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Nintendo Alm & Celica amiibo 2-Pack
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Useful for strategic play
  • Fantastic, intricate details
  • Brick-styled texture on their bases
  • Colors are accurate to the artwork
Cons
  • Packaging is lacking in design
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Nintendo Alm & Celica amiibo 2-Pack - Nintendo 3DS

This amiibo package features two figurines, one of which is a representation of Samus in her suit from the Metroid Dread game. The other model shows an E.M.M.I. amiibo figure. Both figurines have in-game and collector values. For instance, the Samus amiibo offers an energy tank that can increase your health by 100. The other figurine, on the other hand, offers a missile tank that can increase your character's missile capacity by 10. These in-game features make the pack an essential package for any avid Nintendo player.

Another great quality is that the figurine can be used by adults and children. It comes in suitable packaging and has a sturdy construction. The brightly-lit colors and robotic appearance also make it a fun piece to have. You can perch it close to your Nintendo when it is not in use, and it would add some spark and excitement to the setting.

Players are the ones getting the best deal with this pack. In the past, they had to invest time hunting for their first energy tank before beginning the actual game. Thanks to the health energy tank from the Samus amiibo, they would not have to go hunting for an energy tank with low health levels. This feature works like some kind of cheat code that gives Metroid Dread players an instant advantage in the game.

You also get an extra missile tank. While the extra missiles are not as crucial as the energy levels, they can give you a leg up in battle engagements, if used strategically.

These amiibo work well with many games, including Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

Key Features
  • Samus amiibo figure
  • Suit from the Metroid Dread game
  • E.M.M.I. amiibo figure
  • Cool in-game extras
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Samus amiibo figure and E.M.M.I. amiibo figure
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Great in-game functionality
  • Detailed and sturdy build
  • Perfect as a collectible
  • Perfect as a collectible
Cons
  • Packaging is lacking
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Nintendo Metroid Dread amiibo 2-Pack - Switch

Rosalina was released as part of a wave with other adorable amiibo figures such as Daisy, Waluigi, and Diddy Kong. Rosalina is one of the preferred models due to the careful attention to detail the manufacturers put into producing this amiibo. The figure captures the exact likeness of the original game character and makes for a beautiful home decoration.

A typical amiibo is usually covered with a rough matte surface. Rosalina stands out by spotting a smooth, reflective finish that adds splendor to her dress. Only a few amiibo characters possess such smooth and reflective costumes. And the extra touches to her jewelry and accessories make her easily one of the best amiibo figures ever released.

At first glance, the amiibo beauty appears fragile and delicate, but it holds well against constant use and has a stiff construction. It also comes fully protected with bubble wrap in its packaging. It delivers in excellent condition, and any one of your mature kids can open the package with ease.

Of course, these qualities make the Rosalina figure an excellent gift for all lovers of Nintendo gifts, including children and adults. (It is hard enough to withstand minor falls, so you don't have to worry about the kids playing with it. However, it would be best if you do not get this for toddlers or infants due to the health hazard.

We particularly think the Rosalina amiibo model is great for home and office decoration, especially for those who like something light to brighten the room's aesthetics. Of course, it works as advertised and has in-game utility.

Key Features
  • Based on the Super Mario series
  • Offers new experiences within each corresponding game.
  • Designed to interact with compatible games
  • Compatible with Mario Kart 8
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Nintendo Rosalina amiibo (SM Series)
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Careful attention to detail
  • Completely smooth and reflective
  • Great collectible or toy for older children
  • Protected and intact with bubble wrap
Cons
  • Could maybe have more detail
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Nintendo Rosalina amiibo (SM Series)

Amiibo typically come in small sizes, but occasionally you get a really large piece that you can use as a standout piece in your home or office desk decoration. The Detective Pikachu amiibo figurine is a large and weighty figurine with many uses.

You can use it as a paperweight to hold your Pokémon cards, ward off evil Pokémon spirits, or as a bookend to stop your DVD from falling over. We said that tongue in cheek, but, depending on your creativity, there are a million and one ways to use this amiibo. The ideas will come rushing through when you feel the amiibo in your hands.

Of course, to use its in-game utility, you simply have to scan the figurine against your console's NFC sensor. This amiibo allows you to access helpful hints and prompts to improve your gaming experience. Once that is out of the way, the giant Detective Pikachu can take its role as your resident protection against an evil Pokémon element.

The figurine measures about 8 inches, so it is not exactly that big. But we call it extra-sized because it is much bigger than the many other amiibo we reviewed in this article. If you have a loved one that loves collecting gaming collectibles, consider getting this for them.

The quality is quite good. It is strong enough to ensure continued use, pushes, and gentle falls. You can allow the kids to have some (supervised) fun with it.

Key Features
  • Extra-large detective Pikachu amiibo Figure
  • Over 150 animated short movie clips
  • Pika Prompts
  • Works with all compatible software
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Detective Pikachu amiibo (Nintendo 3DS)
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Large-size amiibo model
  • Great gift idea
  • Sturdy construction
  • High-quality detailing
Cons
  • Not compatible with Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
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Nintendo Amiibo - Detective Pikachu

Nintendo Wolf Link is a legendary beast in the Legend of Zelda series. In the game, the character works with other characters to bring down villains and save the good characters. It is available as a beautifully sculptured amiibo figure with extra features to help enhance your gaming experience.

Aside from its bright and detailed sculpture, this figure is sturdy and can endure multiple falls without breaking like cheap plastic. It is also beautiful enough to be added to your amiibo collection if you are a collector. Its in-game utility makes it an excellent buy for gamers.

This amiibo should be helpful in many games, but most people would purchase it to play the "Breath of the Wild" (BotW). When you use the Wolk Link in the BotW, you will get a beastly companion that will search, hunt and fight with you. It only has three hearts but is strong enough to withstand multiple beatings. With some skill and luck, you can get by without using all the hearts.

More hearts are available for Wii U Twilight Princess HD games. This option will take you through the Cave of Shadows, but it is not bad since your hairy companion will get twenty hearts. For most gamers, the three hearts are enough to get through the game. And if his heart is running low, you can heal your wolf by feeding him meat.

Remember that the wolf can get hit by friendly fire. So ensure you keep him safe at all times. and if he is dead, you have to wait for about 24 hours before you can scan the amiibo.

Key Features
  • Character figure connected to the game
  • Appeared as a player or got a special item
  • Leads to various experiences and various play in various games
  • Works with all compatible software
Specifications
  • Type: Figurine
  • What's Included: Wolf Link Amiibo Jp Model
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Delivers as advertised
  • Sturdy enough for continuous use
  • Enough in-game utility
  • Works with a handful of games
Cons
  • NFC doesn’t seem to work well
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Wolf Link Amiibo Jp Model (The Legend of Zelda Series)

The Octoling amiibo figures are beautiful to behold. Their vibrant red and blue colors make them an instant pick for anyone looking to build their Nintendo amiibo collection. Beyond aesthetics, these figures are in-game utility. You can use them to add the Octoling character to your gameplay.

Octolings have a serious demeanor as opposed to the carefree Inklings that many gamers are familiar with. They are adept at using their hands and wielding machinery and tools as battle weapons. Unlike their Inklings cousins that transform into squids, Octolings can also transform into octopuses.

These figurines add some significant enhancement to your gameplay. We found the broken English that the Octopus and Octolings speak funny and cute. It is a nice way to help you differentiate Octolings from Inkling. They also offer other in-game functionalities, such as allowing you to save your favorite outfit that you can easily access between matches.

Outside the game, these figures make for great home decoration items due to their super cute sculpt and sturdy construction. Their funny fish heads, costume, and Octoling armor add to their overall aesthetic appeal. The characters may feel a little heavy when you extract them from the pack, but there is nothing to it. Just make sure you handle the figurines with care, and they will serve you for a long time.

The price tag might not be cheap, but it's not exorbitant. For anyone who values these unique figures, the price is just right. The paintings and sculptures are realistic and true to the characters they represent.

Key Features
  • Character figures connected to the game
  • AppLike Inklings with the ability to transform
  • Cooling girl, cooling boy, and cooling octopus amigo figures
  • Exclusive platoon series 3-pack set
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: 3-pack set
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Great gift idea
  • Accurate replica of the models they represent
  • Excellent addition for collectors
  • Super cute and well made
Cons
  • May appeal more to serious collectors
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Nintendo Splatoon Series - Octoling Amiibo 3-pack

Corrin is a character in the Fire Emblem Fates game that was born in the kingdom of Hoshido. Nohr kidnapped her at a young age, and she was brought up by Nohrian royalty. This character is a descendant of the First Dragons and has the power to transform into a dragon.

Everything about the Corrin amiibo figure screens perfection. Their design, the sculpture, and the color all combine to create a beautiful display that is sure to pique the attention of your house guests. (You can also add this beautiful model to your office desk decoration.) The face and hair are flawless and ring true to the original character.

You might pick an issue with the sword, but we don't consider it a dealbreaker. To be fair, the sword is slightly bent upwards. It could be the original intention or a result of adding the fiery pink fire on the sword. But, like we said, it is really a non-issue, and the rest of the design makes up for that tiny lapse.

The colors are very good. They are so good that we think of this amiibo more as a display item than a game piece. Of course, it has in-game utility value, but it looks so beautiful. It is a must-have for everyone. The hair, outline, and sculpture make this piece a wonderful work of art.

Key Features
  • In-game extra features in compatible games
  • Character figure connected to the game
  • Recommended for children ages 6+
  • Works with all compatible software
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Nintendo amiibo - Corrin (Player 2) (SSB)
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Excellent colors, design, and pose
  • Precise cutouts
  • Beautiful collectible model
  • Great gift idea
Cons
  • The sword is a bit curved
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Nintendo amiibo - Corrin (Player 2) (SSB)

If you are buying Nintendo amiibo for their aesthetic, then the Hero figurine is one of the best buys. Upon receipt of the package, you will be stunned by the immediately vibrant shield and radiant purple tunic. Even the hair and face have a realistic quality to them that makes you feel like you are staring at the real deal.

Observe closely, and you will notice that the Hero model costume received no small deal of detailing. The paint job is nothing short of immaculate, and the texture feels premium to the touch. It would stand out as one of the most vibrant pieces of your collections unless Nintendo produces another masterpiece of even greater quality.

The deal gets sweeter when you see the price tag. While the price isn't exactly cheap, it is less than the true value you get when you purchase this amiibo.

Of course, this amiibo also offers in-game utility as other amiibo figurines. But its real value is its aesthetic qualities. It is a great collectible item for any collector. Even hobbyists will be thrilled to have this miniature figurine on their shelves and desks. And if you are looking for the perfect gift for a Nintendo gamer, you have found it.

To access the in-game utility, all you need is to tap the amiibo against the NFC touchpoint, and you are good to go.

Key Features
  • Fun in-game extra features
  • Super Smash Bros collection
  • Designed to interact with compatible games
  • Appeared as a player or got a special item
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Nintendo Amiibo - Hero - Super Smash Bros. Series
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • Incredible detailing
  • Affordable price
  • Great gift for children and adults
  • Works well with video games
Cons
  • Does not feature the pirate Hero skin
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Nintendo Amiibo - Hero - Super Smash Bros Series

Cloud is the protagonist of Final Fantasy VII. He wields the giant Buster Sword, which he received as a memento from Zack, his comrade. Previously a soldier of Shinra, Cloud now fights as a mercenary against the Shinra corporation. He joins the avalanche's insurgence, which will turn out to be a decision that will transform his destiny.

The Cloud-themed amiibo figurine invokes memories of Cloud's storyline within the game and makes for some fulfilling gameplay. You can scan the amiibo via the NFC touchpoint to enhance the gaming experience. It is compatible with Nintendo systems such as the Wii U, Switch, and 3DS consoles.

However, most people will buy this amiibo figurine for its aesthetic appeal. The model looks fantastic due to its high-quality intricate detailing. The likeness invokes nostalgic feelings, especially in the game's early days when enthusiasts did nothing but play games on their consoles.

Cloud enjoys incredible detail, from the costume to the Buster Sword this miniature figure represents. Every aspect of the design was well done, including the edge of the sword. There's a striking resemblance to the original character.

Overall, the cloud amiibo figurine is satisfactory. The model keeps all the features we love about the character, such as his distinctive nonchalant demeanor we have come to love

Key Features
  • Get cool in-game extras features
  • Leads to various experiences and various play in various games
  • Recommended for children ages 6+
  • Works with all compatible software
Specifications
  • Type: Figurines
  • What's Included: Nintendo amiibo - Cloud (SSB)
  • Brand: Nintendo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch
Pros
  • The figure is true to the character art portrayed
  • High-quality detailing
  • Well-packaged and protected
  • Affordable pricing
Cons
  • On the small side
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Nintendo amiibo - Cloud (SSB)

Amiibo refers to Nintendo's true-to-life figurines representations of gaming characters. Many people collect amiibo for fun, but they can have in-game utility. Thanks to their embedded tech, amiibo figures can interact with video games and, in some cases, even store data. You can use these figures to unlock special features on Nintendo gaming platforms.

How Do Amiibo Work?

Nintendo Sonic The Hedgehog Amiibo

Each amiibo is designed to look like a video game character and contains a hidden radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. When you scan the RFID chip with a compatible Nintendo system, the system will interact with the chip's data and act accordingly. The specific action that the system will take varies from game to game. Some games allow you to store data in your amiibo, customize characters and use the saved content to play on your friend's consoles. Others are read-only. So while they can add functionality to the game, you can't change the amiibo.

Do You Need Amiibo to Play Nintendo Games?

Amibo can enhance the gaming experience but are not mandatory for playing Nintendo games. However, using amiibo games can make some games easier, especially when you have the right set.

An amiibo can grant special powers, extra lives, or unlock unique costumes. However, you are not exactly missing out if you don't have an amiibo handy. Except if you are playing "Animal Crossing: Amiibo Festival," it is not required to have an amiibo.

Which Nintendo Systems Are Compatible with Amiibo?

Nintendo Switch

Nintendo launched amiibo with the Wii U, but the feature is compatible with any Nintendo system you have, such as the Nintendo Switch or the New Nintendo 3DS. There is also backward compatibility, making any old amiibo from the Wii U era will also work with all Nintendo systems.

Furthermore, you can use amiibo from any location because they are not restricted to jurisdictions. So regardless of the type of Nintendo system you have, you can use amiibo from North America, Europe, or Japan.

You can also make older Nintendo systems compatible by using a near-field communication (NFC) reader accessory.

The Different Kinds of Amiibo

Most amiibo are small collectible figurines, but others take on different shapes. An amiibo can be a playing card, figurine, plush toy, or breakfast cereal box. Playing cards and figurines are the most common kinds of amiibo. Regardless of their form, all kinds of amiibo use the same RFID technology and are used the same way.

Conclusion: All the Best Amiibo!

Amiibo are precisely what you need to connect with your favorite game characters, build your collection and enhance your gaming experience. Where there are over 1,000 amiibo figures on the market, the ten mentioned here are the ones you want to get as soon as possible.