Nintendo’s latest update to its Community Tournament Guidelines has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, leaving players confused and outraged. The new rules impose numerous limitations on tournaments for all Nintendo games, potentially spelling the end for many events and competitions.
Under these new guidelines, tournaments will require a license from Nintendo to operate, or they will face severe restrictions. Sponsors will be heavily restricted, and the use of any content or accessories not licensed by Nintendo will be prohibited. Additionally, tournaments must adhere to strict limitations on monetary gain, with registration fees capped at around $25 and cash prizes limited to $5,000 in certain regions.
The guidelines also require separate permission from third-party companies featured in Nintendo games, which could create complications for titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which includes characters outside of Nintendo’s catalog.
Offline tournaments will be limited to a maximum of 200 players, while online events can accommodate up to 300 players. Any event that deviates from these guidelines, including scholastic or charity tournaments, must seek separate permission from Nintendo.
These restrictions directly impact the use of community-created online support hub, Slippi, and controllers not officially licensed by Nintendo. This could have a devastating effect on tournament series like Coinbox, which has been supporting the competitive scene for nearly two years.
Unsurprisingly, players have responded with immediate backlash to Nintendo’s updated guidelines. Many criticize Nintendo for its lack of care for the community and view this as another attempt to restrict the competitive scene. Concerns have been raised about the ability to fly out commentators, the impact on smaller tournaments, and the future of Super Smash Bros. Melee under these restrictions.
While major tournaments with existing licenses should not be affected, smaller events will face challenges in operating within the new guidelines. Nintendo’s message is clear: unlicensed tournament organizers risk being shut down, as has happened in the past.
Online event series, such as Coinbox and other Melee-specific contests, are likely to be negatively impacted or targeted for takedowns due to their inability to obtain a license under these guidelines.
This announcement from Nintendo is reminiscent of a similar situation with Capcom’s Community License Agreement for Street Fighter V, which faced significant backlash last year. Capcom eventually backtracked and promised to provide more clarity and transparency for the community.
The true extent of the backlash to Nintendo’s guidelines will become apparent in the coming days as specific details are released for each region. Players and tournament organizers will have time to assess the implications for their communities. If Nintendo does not respond or provide further information, these new regulations will take effect on November 15th without any additional input.
Source: DOTESPORTS
