Nintendo to slash 3DS price and offer freebies
It seems that the new handheld gaming console, the Nintendo 3DS, isn’t selling as well as expected.
The console, which we reviewed back in Show 62, is the first 3D games console that doesn’t require glasses for that 3D effect. It’s a nice bit of kit, with just one drawback, the price. The 3DS currently costs almost £200, although shopping around can get some decent discounts.
Nintendo’s recently posted details of a significant revenue loss, and expectations for the sales of the 3DS haven’t been met. Drastic steps are to be taken, and from the 12th of August 2011, we can expect to see a major price cut for the console – potentially a cut of 33% off the price.
You’d think that would be bad news for those who’ve shelled out the full price for some pocketable 3D goodness, but to compensate loyal 3DS users, Nintendo is enrolling early adopters into the “Nintendo 3DS Ambassador Program”, and lots of freebies will be offered.
If you have a Nintendo 3DS, or buy one before the expected price drop, the 12th August 2011, you qualify for free entry into the Ambassador Programme. All you need to do, is to access the Nintendo eShop from your console before this date.
The Nintendo eShop
Not used the Nintendo eShop? This is a portal on the 3DS itself, to allow you to get new games downloaded over wi-fi. To get the eShop, you’ll need to install the latest version of firmware, which as of the start of August 2011 is version 2.1.0-4E
When you first access the Nintendo eShop, you have the option to link your Nintendo eShop account to your Club Nintendo account. You’ll need your Nintendo email address and password.
Once you’re in, there are few freebies to install, such as the free 3D game Pokedex 3DS, as well as some other goodies.
If you have a Nintedo 3DS and sign up before 12 August, then from September 1st you’ll be able to get a bunch of free games to thank you for being an early adopter. Free games include Super Mario Bros, Donkey Kong Jr, Balloon Fight, Ice Climber and Legend of Zelda. Later in the year, other freebies for early adopters will be made available, including Yoshi’s Island, Super Mario Advance 3 and Mario Kart: Super Circuit. People accessing eShop for the first time after the 12th of August, will have to pay for these titles.
So, if you have a 3DS – access the eShop in the next few days, and get ready for some freebies.
For our review of this impressive console, see (and hear) our Nintendo 3DS Review