The Nintendo 3DS Isn't Going Anywhere Anytime Soon

Although the Nintendo Switch has been a hit since its release in 2017, many have wondered if the shelf life of the almost eight-year-old handheld Nintendo 3DS would see its end soon. However, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has confirmed in a recent financial briefing that won’t be the case.

He has stated that the handheld holds “a niche clearly separate from Nintendo Switch,” and that it serves as the “first contact” between Nintendo and newcomers. “During summer and fall, the hot-selling new Nintendo 2DS XL package was replaced in the US and European markets with sets featuring a pre-installed popular title,” Furukawa stated.

“Because the suggested retail price was left unchanged in the US, the inclusion of one software title made the system feel like even more of a value to consumers… We are continuing with efforts to expand sales.” He also delves into the old handheld’s bevy of titles in its library, another factor as to why the company is keeping this product around.

“An abundance of titles in a variety of genres have been released for the Nintendo 3DS family. It is important to convey the existence of this rich assortment of Nintendo 3DS family titles and drive sales to new purchasers of the hardware,” Furukawa continued. “Our new consumers know that the evergreen titles will continue to be available, so we will do our utmost to foster sales opportunities.”

In other Nintendo news, check out how you can watch tomorrows Nintendo Direct about Super Smash Bros.