Amiibo

amiibo is a line of near field communication (NFC) devices for Nintendo's platforms. Primarily in the form of interactive figurines based on notable Nintendo characters, amiibo can be scanned by the Wii U or 3DS while the player is playing a compatible game to enhance the gaming experience. For example, in games such as Mario Kart 8 amiibos unlock bonus content; other games can access the amiibo's NFC tag and store data (eg. in Super Smash Bros for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, scanned amiibo appear as in-game fighters that can level up, learn new techniques, and get customized) - though one amiibo can only hold save data for one compatible game at a time.

The Wii U and New Nintendo 3DS models are both natively compatible with amiibo. Older 3DS models, on the other hand, are not, and to ensure compatibility, a separately sold NFC reader peripheral is planned to be released alongside Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer in Fall of 2015.