[10] To make this idea work, the main feature of extendable arms was implemented, with Yabuki stating "Let's talk about a game I know about very well - Mario Kart.

Something appears in the distance and you steer in relation to that - that's the basic structure of the game," in reference to Mario Kart and how its gameplay helped influence Arms.

However, the aesthetic of the game, especially with the concept of extendable arms, clashed with them, and it was eventually decided that a new cast of characters be created.

[1][18] Prior to the game's release, a multiplayer demo known as the "Arms Global Testpunch" was made available for download on the Nintendo eShop, with players being able to test the online gameplay during twelve separate hour-long sessions.

[21] These free releases of additional content followed Splatoon's update model,[22] while the Testpunch demo was also available for use multiple times.

Unlike the Testpunch events, this demo only featured offline modes of single-player and local multiplayer with a limited selection of characters and Arms to choose from.

[40][41] Jack Sheperd of The Independent stated after playing it at a Switch hands-on event that it was one of the "most impressive" games on display.

[38] Kallie Plagge from GameSpot praised the character roster, but criticized the game's steep learning curve.

[50] It sold 100,652 physical copies during its first week of release in Japan, and debuted at number one on the all-format sales charts.

[52] The 2023 CESA Games White Papers revealed that ARMS had sold 2.72 million units, as of December 31, 2022[update].

[53] A graphic novel by Dark Horse Comics based on Arms was under production[59][60] before it was reportedly cancelled in March 2021.

Ultimate, such as Spring Man appearing as a summonable Assist Trophy and several characters cameoing as collectable Spirits.