Nintendo are holding a special event tomorrow where we are hoping that they will announce when the 3DS will be available in the UK and Europe.
The guys over at Euro Gamer have received some information from Nintendo on why the 3DS will be region locked, you can see full details below.
“Nintendo 3DS hardware is available in three versions: Japanese, American and European/Australian. Nintendo has developed different versions of Nintendo 3DS hardware to take into account different languages, age rating requirements and parental control functionality, as well as to ensure compliance with local laws in each region,”
So I guess that clears that up then, and it looks like you will only be able to play 3DS games compatible with your region.
Understanding Region Locking
Region locking is a practice used by hardware manufacturers to restrict the use of software and media to specific regions. In the case of the Nintendo 3DS, this means that a game purchased in Japan will not work on a 3DS console bought in Europe or America. This can be frustrating for gamers who wish to play titles that are not available in their region. However, there are several reasons why companies like Nintendo implement region locking.
One primary reason is to comply with local laws and regulations. Different countries have varying standards for content, age ratings, and parental controls. By region locking their devices, Nintendo can ensure that they meet these standards and avoid legal issues. Additionally, region locking helps in managing the distribution and pricing strategies across different markets. For instance, a game might be priced differently in Japan compared to Europe due to economic factors, and region locking helps maintain these pricing structures.
Impact on Gamers
The region locking of the Nintendo 3DS has significant implications for gamers. For one, it limits the accessibility of games that are exclusive to certain regions. For example, some Japanese games never make it to the Western market, leaving fans in Europe and America unable to experience these titles unless they import a Japanese 3DS console. This can be particularly disappointing for fans of niche genres or franchises that are more popular in specific regions.
Moreover, region locking can affect the resale value of games and consoles. A game bought in one region may not be easily resold in another, limiting the secondary market for used games. This can be a drawback for gamers who frequently buy and sell used games to fund new purchases.
Despite these challenges, there are some workarounds that dedicated gamers use to bypass region locking. Some opt to purchase multiple consoles from different regions, although this can be costly. Others look for software hacks or modifications, but these come with risks such as voiding warranties or damaging the console.
via Crunch Gear
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