Nintendo has quietly launched a feature within its new iOS and Android storefront app that allows users to revisit their entire gaming history, decade by decade. While the app’s primary function is streamlining game purchases for the Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, the “Play Activity” section is proving to be unexpectedly compelling for longtime fans.
Unearthing Forgotten Memories
The Play Activity log, accessible through the user’s profile page, displays a comprehensive record of games played across Nintendo platforms. This includes titles from the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, and beyond – even games players may have completely forgotten about. For example, some users are discovering long-abandoned titles like Art Academy: Home Studio or obscure gems like Chibi-Robo! Zip Lash.
The feature doesn’t just show that you played something; it reveals when you played it, even down to specific dates. This level of detail is striking, as evidenced by the discovery of forgotten games like Steel Diver on the 3DS from March 28, 2011.
Why This Matters in the Age of Remakes
This isn’t mere nostalgia. In an era dominated by remakes, re-releases, and subscription services, knowing what you’ve actually played is surprisingly useful. The Play Activity log serves as a personal archive, helping players avoid redundant purchases or rediscover hidden favorites.
The data also raises questions about Nintendo’s own franchise management. For instance, why hasn’t Nintendo revisited Nintendogs, a title some players spent years engaging with? The app’s record shows dedicated playtime from 2011 to 2015, yet the franchise remains dormant.
Beyond Nostalgia: A Streamlined Storefront
The Play Activity is a standout feature, but the app itself offers improvements to Nintendo’s digital storefront. The mobile interface is significantly faster and easier to navigate than the Switch’s built-in store. Users can make purchases, redeem Nintendo Points, check-in via GPS, view promotions, and browse game news directly from their phones.
The app also provides access to merchandise, including soundtracks, clothing, and toys. A dedicated “Ask the Developer” section within the News tab offers insights into game creation, with recent features on titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza.
To use the app, you must link your Nintendo account.
Ultimately, Nintendo’s new storefront is more than just a convenience tool. It’s a digital time capsule that allows players to reflect on their gaming journey, while also providing a smoother experience for purchasing and managing Nintendo content.
