Day 5 of Nintendo’s Inside the House of Indies Holiday Event has revealed the surprise launch ofSports Story. The newest title from Australian developer Sidebar Games is now available on Nintendo Switch via digital download.First showcased in a 2019 Nintendo Direct,Sports Storyis part sports simulation and part role-playing game. After two years of development, Sidebar Games announced thedelay ofSports Storywith a tweet in August 2020. A follow-up statement from the developer shared that the delay was because the project had “become rather ambitious.” Sidebar Games also gave gamers a glimpse at new features, like playing soccer with a dog, and encouraged fans to stay tuned for future updates. Last month, Nintendo confirmed thatSports Storywould launch in December, but did not reveal a specific date.RELATED:Nintendo Switch Gamer Shows Off Impressive Collection of Joy-ConsThe official Nintendo of America YouTube channel shared the fifth Inside the House of Indies video, featuring fourindie games. The final, action-packed segment, highlightingSports Story, begins at 3:47. Short gameplay clips of sports like baseball, fishing, and volleyball are shown, as well as other activities like firing a cannon and trying to chop down a birdhouse. The montage concludes with theSports Storylogo and “Available Now” below it.
TheSports Storypage in the My Nintendo Store describes the game’s main features. Players can compete in a variety of sports, including tennis and soccer. As the successor toGolf Story, it’s no surprise that there are eight unique golf courses where players can develop their golf skills. Improving one’s Sporting Rank will unlock new sports, like BMX, cricket, and mini-golf.
While sports are central toSports Story, gamers can enjoy exploring the world as well. Boats, trains, and helicopters bring players to mysterious and challenging new areas. Wandering into the Wildlands, dungeons, or ruins may lead to interesting encounters or discoveries. When not adventuring, players can relax, shop, and playminigamesat the mall. Interacting with non-playable characters can lead to new friends or enemies.
The other titles spotlighted on Day 5 includeDust & Neon, a roguelite set in a futuristic Wild West, andSea of Stars, a retro-style role-playing game.Dust & Neonis coming to the Nintendo Switch in early 2023, as revealed in the Holiday Event video. WhileSea of Starsdoes not yet have a confirmed release date, developer Sabotage Studio states that a 2023 launch is expected.
