It has been revealed this week that Nintendo has passed 8 million sales within the US for their Nintendo 3DS handheld gaming console, which is 1 million more than the Nintendo DS console.
The figure was announced by Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime at GamesIndustry International, during an interview.
“When the NPD numbers come out later this week, you’re going to see life-to-date 3DS game sales surpass 20 million units in the US,” and that’s only counting physical units. “3DS game sales are up 55 percent versus last year, counting both physical and digital.”
The 8 million figure is for the U.S. alone, while Nintendo’s official total for North and South America combined was almost 10 million back in December.
The Journey of the Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo announced their new Nintendo 3DS device in March 2010 and officially unveiled it at E3 2010 on June 15, 2010. The 3DS was a groundbreaking device, featuring glasses-free 3D technology that set it apart from other handheld consoles on the market. However, initial sales were sluggish, prompting Nintendo to take action. Less than six months later, on July 28th, 2011, to boost lagging sales, Nintendo announced a price reduction from $249 to $169. This strategic move seems to have done the trick, significantly increasing sales and pushing the console into healthier figures.
On July 28th, 2012, Nintendo launched a redesigned version of the Nintendo 3DS console, in the form of the Nintendo 3DS XL. This new model featured a screen that was 90% larger than the original Nintendo 3DS, providing a more immersive gaming experience. The larger screen size was well-received by gamers, further boosting the console’s popularity.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The success of the Nintendo 3DS has had a significant impact on the gaming industry. The console’s unique 3D capabilities and extensive library of games have made it a favorite among gamers of all ages. Popular titles such as “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D,” “Super Mario 3D Land,” and “Animal Crossing: New Leaf” have contributed to the console’s strong sales figures. These games not only showcase the 3DS’s capabilities but also highlight Nintendo’s commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences.
Moreover, the 3DS has played a crucial role in the rise of digital game sales. As Reggie Fils-Aime mentioned, 3DS game sales are up 55 percent compared to the previous year, counting both physical and digital units. This trend reflects a broader shift in the gaming industry towards digital distribution, which offers convenience and accessibility for gamers.
The 3DS’s success has also paved the way for future innovations in handheld gaming. Nintendo continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with portable gaming devices, as evidenced by the subsequent release of the Nintendo Switch. The Switch, which combines handheld and home console gaming, has built on the foundation laid by the 3DS, offering even more versatility and a wider range of gaming experiences.
The Nintendo 3DS has achieved remarkable success, surpassing 8 million sales in the US alone. Its innovative features, extensive game library, and strategic pricing decisions have all contributed to its popularity. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the 3DS remains a testament to Nintendo’s ability to innovate and adapt to changing market dynamics.
Source: Eurogamer : Game Industry
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