Nintendo has changed the name of its WARPSTAR subsidiary to Nintendo Stars, which is now charged with driving new licensing business for the gameco’s film slate, spanning consumer products, live events and tie-in video games. 

The goal of the shakeup is to expand the reach and market presence of Nintendo’s film adaptations worldwide and to provide more ways for people to experience the IPs outside of theaters. Nintendo Stars will initially focus on building consumer products programs for two upcoming titles: Super Mario World (April 3, 2026), the CG-animated sequel to Illumination’s 2023 The Super Mario Bros. Movie (pictured); and a live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda from Sony Pictures Entertainment (2027). It’s worth noting that Nintendo also registered trademarks with Universal Pictures last month for an untitled Donkey Kong film.

Prior to this rebrand, WARPSTAR had worked exclusively on expanding the Kirby game franchise into TV series, merchandise and experiences. The unit was set up in 2001 as a joint-venture between Nintendo and Kirby creator HAL Laboratories to support the brand, but it was fully acquired by the gameco in April. WARPSTAR’s Nobuto Kuroki will continue to run Nintendo Stars as a representative director and president.