Nintendo and ISEA power up K–12 esports with Mario, Smash Bros, and Splatoon tournaments

Nintendo is teaming up with the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance to bring Mario, Smash Bros., and Splatoon to school tournaments, reaching over 80,000 students across 23 states starting this fall.

Photo credit: Nintendo

Nintendo of America has partnered with the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance (ISEA) to bring its titles into competitive school-based gaming programs for students in grades 4 through 12.

Nintendo is partnering with the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance (ISEA) to bring competitive gaming to students in grades 4 through 12. Starting this fall, schools across 23 states will run tournaments using Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Splatoon 3 on Nintendo Switch systems.

ISEA is a nationwide coalition of educator-led esports programs serving K–12 students. Its affiliated organizations include state-level bodies such as the Texas Scholastic Esports Federation and Garden State Esports in New Jersey.

Digital access included for participating schools

Nintendo will provide digital game codes and Nintendo Switch Online memberships at no cost as part of the partnership. The initiative will reach more than 80,000 elementary, middle, and high school students through school-organized tournaments and events.

Danielle Johnson, president at ISEA, says, “We are so excited to partner with Nintendo as we continue to grow and expand competitive gaming opportunities for students across the country. Games are a fun, communal experience. We want to make gaming accessible to as many students as possible regardless of their previous gaming experience.”

ISEA highlights the potential for esports to offer new forms of student engagement, particularly for those who may not participate in traditional extracurriculars.

The partnership builds on Nintendo’s recent efforts to support school and community-based tournaments. In 2023, the company updated its guidelines to simplify the process for running nonprofit events involving its games.

Bill Trinen, vice president of player and product experience at Nintendo of America, says, “We support kids who want to celebrate their passion — or discover a new passion — by getting involved in memorable cooperative and competitive play experiences. Working closely with the ISEA ensures that we are creating a fun experience that is open to everyone.”