In a world increasingly dominated by multipurpose gadgets, the Nintendo Alarmo brings a single-purpose device to the forefront that is all about character and nostalgia. Announced earlier this month and positioned as an unexpected addition to Nintendo's hardware lineup, the Alarmo presents itself as a playful throwback to beloved Nintendo franchises. The $100 alarm clock incorporates themes from classic series such as The Legend of Zelda, Pikmin, Splatoon, and, naturally, Mario.

Interestingly, it also includes a theme from Ring Fit Adventure, a choice that may leave some puzzled given the more prominent alternatives like Pokémon, Kirby, or Animal Crossing. Personally, as someone with no history of engaging with Nintendo Fit games, I decided to bypass that theme, focusing instead on the nostalgia-inducing characters that have accompanied many childhoods.

Compact yet striking, the Alarmo is a palm-sized, Mario-red device featuring a large white button. Its design, reminiscent of the toylike textures from Fisher Price sets, creates a stark contrast when placed among other contemporary bedside items. It stands out not only for its vivid appearance but also for the soothing wave of nostalgia it evokes—a sentiment Nintendo seems to have mastered with surgical precision.

A Whimsy of Personality

In an age where smartphones double as both alarms and sound machines, choosing to invest in a standalone alarm clock could be seen as an act of whimsical defiance. In 2024, when something as mundane as getting up for a Zoom meeting or a morning fitness class is generally managed by an app, opting for the Nintendo Alarmo becomes a statement of personality over utility.

The core allure of the Alarmo lies in its embrace of character-driven charm. It leverages Nintendo's iconic characters to offer not just functionality but an experience. Designed with motion sensors and sound effects, it’s not necessarily about innovation in features, but the unique appeal of waking to a playful tune from a cherished game universe.

At launch, the Alarmo offers five themes, with promises of more to come via free updates—assuming it’s connected online and linked to a Nintendo account. This hints at a future where your morning routine could take an unexpected new turn when favorite characters make a grand entry as alarms.

For those who, like me, have felt the enduring tug of Nintendo’s narratives, the Alarmo presents itself not just as a gadget but as a nostalgic journey worth considering.

Originally published by Wired, you can read more about the Nintendo Alarmo in this review.