How to Pair Amiibo with Nintendo Switch Games

By The Video Game Company | Published: 2026-10-29

Category: How-to Guides

Learn step-by-step how to pair your Nintendo Amiibo figures with Switch games, including Cat Peach and Tom Nook, plus common mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer

To pair an amiibo with your Nintendo Switch, simply tap the figure's base on the NFC touchpoint of your controller while the game is running. The exact spot and timing vary by game, but the process takes seconds once you know where to tap.

Why Pairing Works Differently Across Games

Each game decides when and how amiibo are read. Some games, like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, let you tap anytime on the character select screen or during a match. Others, like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, only read amiibo at specific locations, such as the campsite or the Nook Stop terminal.

If a tap doesn't register, it's often because the game isn't in the right state, not because the figure is broken. Check the game's manual or in-game help for the exact amiibo feature and where to use it.

Loose Amiibo and Condition Considerations

Loose amiibo figures, like the Cat Peach and Tom Nook listings, work exactly the same as boxed ones for gameplay. The only difference is the lack of retail packaging, which may affect collector value but not function.

If you buy a loose figure, make sure the base is clean and free of stickers or debris that could interfere with the NFC reader.

Step-by-Step Amiibo Pairing Process

Update your system and game: Make sure your Nintendo Switch system and the game you're playing are updated to the latest version. Amiibo support is often added or improved in game updates. Check for system updates in System Settings > System > System Update before starting.
Enable amiibo features in the game: Some games require you to enable amiibo functionality in the options menu or reach a certain point in the story before you can use amiibo. Look for an 'amiibo' option in the game's settings or pause menu. If you can't find the amiibo option, progress further in the game or consult the game's official guide.
Find the NFC touchpoint on your controller: The NFC touchpoint is located on the top of the Joy-Con controller (near the plus/minus buttons) or on the center of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. For Nintendo Switch Lite, it's on the right side of the console. Do not use third-party controllers that lack NFC; they won't read amiibo.
Tap the amiibo base on the touchpoint: When the game prompts you to use an amiibo, place the base of the figure flat against the touchpoint. Hold it there for a few seconds until the game registers the tap. For games that support it, you can also use the amiibo anytime during gameplay by tapping and holding. If the game doesn't respond, lift the figure and tap again; sometimes the initial contact isn't enough.
Confirm the amiibo data on screen: After tapping, the game should display the character's name and possibly a menu of options. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the action, such as saving a fighter, calling a character, or receiving items. If you see an error message, the amiibo may be from a different franchise or not supported by that game.

Amiibo Figures That Work with This Guide

Cat Peach - Nintendo Amiibo: Cat Peach is a Nintendo amiibo figure featuring the cat-suited version of Princess Peach, compatible with Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Wii U. If you own Cat Peach, you can use her in compatible Switch games to unlock special costumes or items, and the loose condition option means the figure works the same as a boxed one.
Cat Peach - Nintendo Amiibo
Tom Nook - Nintendo Amiibo: Tom Nook is a Nintendo-branded amiibo figure featuring the Animal Crossing character, compatible with Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Wii U. Tom Nook can be used in Animal Crossing games to call him to the campsite or unlock exclusive furniture, making him a useful figure for fans of the series.
Tom Nook - Nintendo Amiibo