Nintendo Games Will Not Feature at RTA in Japan 2025 Due to New Permission Rules

Summary:

RTA in Japan, one of the country’s largest and most recognized speedrunning events, has confirmed that this summer’s tournament will be without any Nintendo titles. The decision comes after Nintendo informed the organizers that each individual game would require its own official approval before being included in the event. This policy shift means that from 9th to 15th August 2025, fans will see a lineup completely free of Nintendo-owned properties, including past favorites like Super Mario 64. The change marks a sharp departure from previous years when Nintendo’s iconic franchises often dominated the schedule and pulled in huge audiences. Last year, Super Mario 64 claimed the top spot for viewership, demonstrating the strong connection between Nintendo titles and the event’s popularity. Organizers have stated their intention to apply for these permissions in time for the 2026 edition, hoping to bring back the familiar excitement that Nintendo games generate. Until then, the focus will shift toward alternative titles, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the speedrunning scene in Japan while adapting to a new era of event planning and publisher relations.

RTA in Japan confirms absence of Nintendo titles for 2025

This year’s RTA in Japan, running from 9th to 15th August 2025, will not feature any Nintendo-owned games. The event organizers confirmed that the decision was based on a new directive from Nintendo, requiring explicit permission for each individual game before it could be showcased. This is a notable shift from previous editions where Nintendo titles were staples of the lineup, often drawing in significant audiences and creating memorable moments for both players and viewers.

Nintendo’s game permission policy explained

Nintendo informed RTA in Japan that any tournament showcasing its games must apply for specific permission for each title. This approach means organizers cannot simply request a blanket approval to feature multiple Nintendo games. Each game—whether a mainline Super Mario, a Zelda adventure, or a niche spin-off—requires a separate application process. For large-scale events with limited preparation time, this policy adds a layer of complexity that can affect scheduling and planning.

Impact on the August 2025 tournament lineup

Without Nintendo’s library to draw from, the August 2025 tournament will shift focus toward games from other publishers. This opens opportunities for speedrunners who specialize in titles outside the Nintendo ecosystem, offering a broader variety of gameplay experiences. While the absence of familiar names might disappoint some fans, it also challenges the event to innovate and introduce viewers to fresh speedrunning possibilities.

Historical role of Nintendo games at RTA in Japan

In past years, Nintendo titles have been at the heart of RTA in Japan’s programming. Classics like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and various Pokémon installments often attracted massive live audiences and dominated streaming platforms during the event. The deep-rooted association between Nintendo and speedrunning culture in Japan makes their absence in 2025 a significant turning point.

Super Mario 64’s standout performance last year

At the 2024 edition, Super Mario 64 achieved the highest viewership numbers of the entire event. Known for its tight controls, intricate movement mechanics, and an abundance of creative routing possibilities, the game has long been a favorite among speedrunners. The absence of such a flagship title this year highlights the potential impact on audience engagement and social media buzz surrounding the event.

Community reactions to the change

The speedrunning community’s response has been mixed. Some runners expressed frustration over losing the chance to showcase their Nintendo specialties, while others see this as a necessary adjustment to respect publisher rights. On social media, discussions have ranged from disappointment to cautious optimism, with some fans curious to see which new games might step into the spotlight.

Potential effects on viewership and participation

Given that Nintendo games have historically been among the most-watched, their absence could influence both live attendance and streaming numbers. However, it may also create a more level playing field for games from smaller studios or niche genres, potentially drawing in different segments of the gaming audience who might not have tuned in before.

Plans for Nintendo’s return in 2026

RTA in Japan’s organizers have made it clear they intend to apply for the necessary permissions ahead of the 2026 event. This preparation could ensure that beloved Nintendo titles return to the stage, restoring the balance between legacy speedrunning staples and newer additions. The extra lead time should make the approval process smoother and allow for a more diverse game schedule.

Implications for other Japanese gaming events

This development could influence how other gaming tournaments in Japan approach their relationships with major publishers. If Nintendo maintains this strict permission-based policy, organizers may need to adjust timelines, budgets, and promotional strategies to accommodate the requirements. It could also inspire similar policies from other publishers, reshaping the competitive gaming landscape in the country.

Conclusion

The absence of Nintendo games at RTA in Japan 2025 marks a significant change in the event’s history. While it may alter the dynamics and reduce the presence of iconic speedrunning titles, it also creates space for new experiences and competitors. The hope is that by 2026, Nintendo’s classics will once again share the stage with emerging favorites, bringing together the best of both worlds for fans and players alike.

RTA in Japan 2025 will be remembered as a year of adaptation. Without Nintendo’s participation, the event must navigate fresh challenges while uncovering new opportunities. The situation underscores the importance of communication between event organizers and publishers, ensuring that future editions strike a balance between respecting rights and delivering the excitement fans have come to expect.

FAQs

Why are Nintendo games not in RTA in Japan 2025?
- Nintendo requires individual game permissions, which the organizers could not secure in time.
When will RTA in Japan 2025 take place?
- The event is scheduled for 9th to 15th August 2025.
Which Nintendo game had the highest viewership last year?
- Super Mario 64 topped the charts in 2024.
Will Nintendo games return in future events?
- Organizers plan to apply for permissions for the 2026 edition.
How will the absence of Nintendo affect the event?
- It may lower traditional viewership but could introduce audiences to new speedrunning titles.