Nintendo has recently updated its guidelines for fan events and content sharing and creation across various regions. However, these updates have received negative feedback from multiple reports, causing frustration among fans. The new guidelines can be accessed through the links provided below. Many fans have taken to social media, using hashtags like #freeSmashBros and #freeSplatoon, to voice their protest against the changes.
In Europe, the new Nintendo Community Tournament Guidelines now allow for tournaments with up to 200 in-person participants (or 300 online). However, there are certain restrictions in place. Online spectators cannot be charged, prizes cannot exceed €5000, food and drink cannot be sold, and requiring an Xbox or YouTube subscription to watch is not allowed.
Nintendo has also updated its “Content Guidelines for Online Video & Image Sharing Platforms,” marking the biggest update since 2018. This update maintains its opposition to uploading soundtracks and provides more detailed restrictions on content, including data-mined secrets.
The disappointed reactions to these guidelines have been quite considerable, with some individuals expressing their disappointment in lengthy rants. They feel that these changes hinder accessibility in gaming and believe that it represents a step backward.
The guidelines for Smash tournaments in Japan have also been updated, limiting registration fees to 2000 YEN (approximately $13 USD) and the size of offline tournaments to 200 entrants or less. There are also restrictions placed on sponsors and monetization, as well as the prohibition of cash prizes.
The backlash against these guidelines has been significant, with hashtags like #SaveSmash, #FreeMelee, and #FreeSplatoon gaining popularity. Some individuals have even creatively rewritten the rules as an angry mother grounding her child.
Nintendo of America has also published its tournament guidelines, which appear to be similar to those in Europe and Japan. Tournaments that exceed these limits will require a license, with the application form becoming available in early November.
The impact of these guidelines on the community is disheartening, especially for major figures in the scene who have invested in content creation for games like Splatoon. However, there is hope that people will continue to support and engage with these games, despite the changes.
It’s important to note that most of the competitive Smash and Splatoon tournaments do not fall under the category of “Community Tournaments” as defined in the guidelines. Instead, for-profit tournaments are allowed through licensing.
There are concerns among some individuals that Nintendo’s track record suggests they may not adjust or accommodate the community’s needs. One example mentioned is the Panda Global fiasco. The hashtag #FreeSplatoon has been used to express these concerns.
If any significant updates or changes occur, we will provide further information.
