Nintendo had a big press event in NYC today where they finally divulged all the info about their new handheld system. The 3DS, their amazing little system that outputs 3D visuals without any glasses required, will hit the US on March 27th for the price of $249.99. Europeans will actually luck out and get it earlier than us for once on March 25, with no price set just yet (but likely to be similar).
It’s quite a hefty chunk of change, especially considering that the original DS launched for a mere $149.99, but you have to appreciate the hardware that’s going into this one. The system looks very similiar to the DS but you’ll notice that analog circle button, which will finally allow for greater control. It’s also got a motion and gyro sensors built into it, and will be backwards compatible with the DS. Unfortunately it’s impossible to show off what the system’s 3D visuals look like (they don’t come across in videos) so you’ll have to catch it in stores to get an idea of how it works.
The launch lineup is something to be admired as well. Here’s what you’ll be able to play Day One.
* Pilotwings Resort
* Nintendogs + Cats
* Steeldiver
* Dead or Alive
* Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 3D
* Madden NFL
* Super Street Fighter IV 3D
* Asphalt 3D
* Combat of Giants: Dinosaurs 3D
* Ridge Racer 3D
* Resident Evil: The Mercenaries
* LEGO Star Wars III: The Clone Wars
Looks good too, doesn’t it? Almost on par with the last generation of consoles. Only the first three games on that list above are first party, so it’s good to see that the support is definitely there. Expect to tons of titles in 2011, covering major series like Kid Icarus, Metal Gear, Mario Kart, The Legend of Zelda, Ninja Gaiden, Paper Mario, Batman, Assassin’s Creed, Persona, Splinter Cell another Resident Evil title, and most importantly- a 3D Professor Layton.
The system will come with built-in software to play around with as well, including a few games. One is called Face Raiders and allows you to put your face into a shooting game. There will be a Mii Maker much like the Wii, a web browser, a pedometer, and much more. The 3DS will also be capable of playing 3D movies although none have been announced just yet. There will also be an online shop where you can pick up Game Boy and Game Boy Color games, among others.
Perhaps the biggest hurdle besides the price is the battery life. Nintendo is estimating a mere 3 hours of life when using it in 3D mode- something that essentially requires you to leave the thing plugged in all the time. Definitely not the ideal system to lug around on trips.
What do you folks think? Day one purchase, or wait and see? And is that price too much, especially considering you can almost pick up an Xbox 360 or PS3 for the same amount?