Nintendo’s ‘Miitomo’ iOS App Lands in March, Pre-Registration on Feb. 17

Nintendo has today announced the launch of its first smartphone app for iOS and Android, Miitomo in March, anticipated by a pre-registration process that will kick off on February 17. The smartphone-only app will be available at launch in select countries, including Canada.

Starting February 17, interested smartphone users can create a Nintendo account using their Nintendo Network ID, a social network account, or email address. Those who pre-register will see two benefits: First, they will be notified when the app launches; and secondly, they will receive a special Miitomo bonus via the videogame giant’s new My Nintendo rewards program.

The new rewards program aims to be a more comprehensive service than traditional programs by rewarding users for interacting with Nintendo products and services in a variety of ways.

Miitomo was first teased in October and, contrary to expectations, is more like a social experience based on the Mii avatars featured on Nintendo consoles. It enables a way to interact with friends by prompting users to answer a variety of questions.

This is the first app of five Nintendo’s CEO promised to launch by March 2017 in a partnership with DeNa. The second seems to be under development and will feature a “familiar” character.