Nintendo Reduces 3DS Prices over Lack of Sales
On Thursday, Nintendo surprisingly reported that the price of the 3DS would be slashed by 40% only 6 months after launch. There have been 710,000 units of the hand-held sold globally and 4.53 million games. The price cut is due to generate momentum for sales, which have been lacking compared to predictions, before the key shopping period at the end of the year.
Starting August 11, consumers in Japan will be able to get the 3DS for just ¥15,000 (previously ¥25,000). On August 12, consumers will be able to get their hands on the hand-held for $170 (previously $250) in the US and $250 (previously $350) in Australia - prices are in the nation’s currency. It hasn’t been announced how much the system will cost in the UK, but many retailers have already started selling it at £180 (down from £230) to stimulate sales.
There may be some loyal Nintendo fans out there that are disappointed they spent the extra cash to get the system at launch, as a price cut doesn’t usually come this soon after a system is launched. However, the gaming giant hasn’t left them out by any means. In a press release, Nintendo announced that gamers who already have the console will be entered into an Ambassador Programme.
All the early adopters can simply connect to the Nintendo eShop before August 11 and 12 (depending on their location) and be registered. Then they will be able to download 10 NES games (including Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong Jr., Balloon Fight, Ice Climber, and The Legend of Zelda) and 10 Game Boy and Game Boy Advance games (including Yoshi’s Island: Super Mario Advance 3, Mario Kart: Super Circuit, Metroid Fusion, WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgames! and Mario vs. Donkey Kong) for free. These downloads will be made available in 2 phases - September 1 and before the end of the year respectively. We couldn’t have asked for a better reward!