Fans Criticize Switch Sports Resort’s New Sportsmates for ‘Invading’ Wuhu Island’s Beloved Mii Space

During Tuesday’s Nintendo Direct, fans of Wii Sports Resort had a brief moment of excitement when the reveal trailer for Nintendo Switch Sports Resort began. A plane soared over the familiar Wuhu Island, and a logo reminiscent of the original series appeared, followed by the return of the Sportsmates.

When Nintendo Switch Sports launched in 2022, it introduced Sportsmates, generic avatars that replaced the beloved Miis, offering limited customization options. While they have their charm, the reception was far from positive. The backlash against Sportsmates, combined with the success of the Mii-focused Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream earlier this year, sparked hope that Miis might return to the forefront of Nintendo games, including the next installment of Switch Sports. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort appears to follow the same trend, primarily featuring Sportsmates, although players can opt to use a Mii if they choose. However, don’t expect to see Miis as CPU opponents.

Unsurprisingly, fans are voicing their discontent over the Sportsmates’ return, especially since they’re now taking over Wuhu Island. Some have even labeled them as “colonizers”:

“Those gremlins culling the original Miis and taking their land. Just sick.”

“No. That is criminal. You do not bring back Wuhu Island and then treat the Miis like background extras. Wuhu Island belongs to the Miis. That island has Mii DNA in the pavement. The swordplay arena, the cycling roads, and the little resort vibes that is sacred Mii territory.”

A few fans have even expressed their frustration through art:

“made this image because I got mad at the new sports resort.”

There’s also a post that, while humorous, highlights the Sportsmates’ less-than-warm reception:

“a less than warm welcome.”

Nintendo has also made changes to Wuhu Island for this game, which has stirred mixed feelings among Wii enthusiasts. The town has reportedly been relocated (with some fans believing it’s been removed entirely), and the iconic bridge now leads to a new archipelago. The overall look feels somewhat empty and flat, lacking original landmarks like the hotel, ship, and castle, with few new additions to fill the void.

While I’m glad to see Wuhu Island isn’t completely gone, it does feel a bit lifeless now. I’m eager to explore it myself, especially since a new version of the Island Flyover sport is included—there must be some cool discoveries waiting, right? One thing’s for sure: I won’t be playing as one of those Sportsmates, no matter how guilty that makes me feel.