Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story to Receive a Physical Edition in Japan [Update: Pre-Orders]

Why It Matters

The physical launch taps into collector demand and strengthens the Doraemon brand on Nintendo’s platform, while Kairosoft leverages its simulation expertise to broaden global appeal. It signals a growing trend of niche digital titles receiving boxed releases to capture additional revenue.

Key Takeaways

• Physical Switch version releases April 16, 2026 in Japan.
• Pre‑orders open globally, includes English guidebook.
• Game blends Doraemon IP with Kairosoft simulation.
• First physical edition after 2024 digital launch.
• Supports multiple languages, targeting Western collectors.

Pulse Analysis

The decision to issue a boxed version of Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story reflects a broader shift in the console market, where publishers are reviving physical media to satisfy collector enthusiasm and retail shelf presence. Nintendo Switch’s hybrid nature has encouraged a steady stream of limited‑run releases, from indie gems to franchise spin‑offs, giving developers an additional revenue channel beyond digital downloads. By offering a tangible product, Kairosoft can tap into impulse purchases at specialty stores and leverage the nostalgia associated with classic Switch cartridges.

Pairing the beloved Doraemon IP with Kairosoft’s proven simulation formula creates a compelling hybrid that appeals to both fans of the manga and strategy‑game enthusiasts. The title’s core loop—crafting dorayaki, managing inventory, and deploying futuristic gadgets—mirrors the studio’s successful city‑building titles while injecting the whimsical charm of Fujiko F Fujio’s universe. This synergy not only differentiates the game in a crowded marketplace but also reinforces Nintendo’s strategy of diversifying its library with recognizable characters that drive cross‑generational engagement.

Opening pre‑orders for Western audiences and bundling an English guidebook signals Kairosoft’s intent to capture a global collector segment that often prefers physical editions. Multilingual support lowers the barrier for non‑Japanese players, expanding the potential user base and encouraging community‑driven promotion. If the boxed launch performs well, it could pave the way for additional Kairosoft titles to receive similar treatment, reinforcing the studio’s position as a niche yet profitable player in the simulation genre and strengthening Nintendo’s catalog of region‑wide releases.

Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story to receive a physical edition in Japan [update: pre-orders]

Posted on February 17, 2026 by Cris‑(chito) in News, Switch

February 12: Kairosoft has announced that Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story will be receiving a physical Nintendo Switch release in Japan. This new edition will be made available on April 16, 2026.

Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story originally shadow‑dropped for Nintendo Switch in 2024, after receiving a spotlight during a Nintendo Direct. Although the segment was exclusive to the Japanese version of the Direct, the title also received a US eShop release. This new physical edition will of course be playable in English, and will even come with a special guidebook.

Overview of the game

• A simulation game where you create a wonderful sweets shop with Doraemon.

• A game where you run a sweets shop with the popular manga character Doraemon.

• Make Doraemon’s favorite dorayaki and create a store that will be the talk of the town.

• First, make the sweets, set up the shelves, prepare the tables, and get ready to run the shop!

• Various characters from Fujiko F Fujio’s works appear as customers, including T · P BON and Kiteretsu Encyclopedia.

• During your adventure to find ingredients, you will encounter many difficulties, but Doraemon’s secret gadgets will help you solve problems.

• A management game created by Kairosoft, a company popular for its simulation games.

• Enjoy Doraemon’s unique adventures.

You can also check out the original Japanese Nintendo Direct segment from the original launch of this game below.

Japanese Trailer

Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story is now available on the Nintendo eShop worldwide, with the physical edition releasing on April 16, 2026 in Japan.

February 17: Pre‑orders are now open for the West. English plus other languages are supported.