(Credit: Nintendo)
In an unexpected twist, Nintendo has released its own mobile music app for iOS and Android called Nintendo Music.
Nintendo Music lets people listen to select songs from the company’s extensive catalog of game soundtracks. While there are some notable omissions on launch, there are lots of tracks from Mario, Metroid, Animal Crossing, Zelda, and Splatoon titles.
The music streaming app is free to download, but you need to be a Nintendo Switch Online subscriber to use it. Subscriptions start at $3.99 a month and include access to old video games.
If you're not into listening to a single game’s music all the way through, you can choose one of the app’s curated playlists instead. There are listening suggestions available grouped by characters, moods, or even game scenes, like boss battles or opening themes.
The music app offers a few extra tidbits like recommendations based on your Switch gameplay history and the ability to extend tracks up to 60 minutes. There’s even an option in the settings to hide spoilers on certain titles. It’s unclear how tracks are being extended on a technical level, whether AI is being used or not, but not every song can be extended.
(Credit: Nintendo)Nintendo Music isn’t the only October surprise from the company. A few weeks ago, it debuted Alarmo, a $99 sleep-tracking alarm clock. The bedside clock also plays music from select Nintendo games, but in a more limited capacity and without an app to control it.
As fun as these releases are, most Nintendo fans want details on the Switch 2.
If you’re curious about the music app, but don’t have a Switch Online subscription, Nintendo is offering a seven-day free trial to Nintendo Switch Online. If you already have access to the Nintendo Music app and are looking for a deep cut, I recommend the Wii Shop Channel music.