Nintendo 3DS Release Dates, Prices for Europe and U.S. Revealed.
At Nintendo 3DS press conferences in New York and Amsterdam, Nintendo officially stated the release date and price of the Nintendo 3DS in the North America and Europe markets. Europe will get the device first, on March 25 at a price of roughly £229.99 and America will follow two days later on March 27 at an MSRP of $249.99. The European price point is officially open to interpretation by retailers. The system will launch in two colors, Aqua Blue and Cosmos Black.
Nintendo streamed the event on their website, the same day they launched the official Nintendo 3DS section online. The 3DS launch site features in depth information about the system, featuring much of the information fans already knew about the system but a few minor details either unknown or unexpanded previously.
The focus of the conference revolved around 3DS's unique communication features. The Street Pass feature received an in depth overview, including the reveal of a four color LED that will notify you whether friends are online and the current level of connectivity for your 3DS. The 3DS also features a revamped friend code system that should make playing and finding friends much easier than before, plus live viewing to watch friends play remotely.
The 3DS also comes preloaded with software similar to the 3DS and Wii, including a home menu to easily navigate system functions. Other software includes a preloaded game Face Raiders, an activity log similar to the Wii Fit, an internet browser and e-shop, and picture editing software similar to the DSi. Pictures can even be imported to create Mii characters.
The conference can be viewed at Nintendo's 3DS website along with a five minute virtual tour of the system and its features plus numerous videos showcasing launch titles, fan reaction and more. Nintendo also promises to tour Europe and America with interactive demos before the launch.
