New 3DS

When the Nintendo Switch launched, it was a foregone conclusion that the Wii U would be axed, but many wondered where the new hybrid would put the 3DS. The now antiquated console has certainly had its time in the sun, and given that the Switch is a technically superior handheld, it seemed likely that the company would shift its total focus to the new platform. While it may be true that Nintendo is mostly focused on the Switch now, the 3DS has stuck around for longer than expected, and recent comments suggest that it isn’t going anywhere.

In the latest financial results briefing, Tatsumi Kimishima announced that Nintendo has plans for new software on the 3DS through 2019 “and beyond”, suggesting that not only is the company not getting rid of the 3DS anytime soon, but that it might just continue right alongside the Switch. Here’s what was said:

The Nintendo 3DS family of systems has reached a global cumulative series sell-in of 72 million units to a broad array of consumers.

Nintendo 3DS boasts a rich lineup of game software, with more than 1,000 titles across a wide variety of genres.

We will continue the Nintendo 3DS business by leveraging its installed base and rich software library. We believe it is important to leverage the rich library of Nintendo 3DS series titles to drive sales with existing Nintendo 3DS owners as well as with consumers who recently purchased the Nintendo 3DS hardware, and are investigating strategies for doing so.

In addition to the titles currently on sale, we have announced the coming release of the titles shown here. We are even preparing new software for release in 2019 and beyond. Our plan is to continue maintaining this business by taking advantage of new titles like these.

What do you think? What do you think the company is working on for the 3DS? How many more years do you think Nintendo will keep supporting it? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

[source nintendo.co.jp]