GAME NEWS:
Nintendo's 3D version of their popular game device, the Nintendo 3DS, doesn't go on sale until March. However, as of this morning, Gamestop locals around the country have begun to take preorders on the hotly anticipated device.
The Nintendo DS has been the hottest selling portable game device since its release back in November of 2004. Throughout the world, the device has sold 135.58 million units which includes all versions (the DS Lite, the DSi, and the DSi XL). It has given Nintendo a hold over the portable game market for the last six years and the latest model, which allows gamers to game in 3D without the need for glasses, is sure to do more of the same.
There is still no official date for the 3DS, though Nintendo confirms that March is certainly when it will release. As of this morning, depositing a small sum of money at your local Gamestop will guarantee you get one of the devices come launch day. There's a few catches though, as even though the preorders are official the numbers seem to flucuate based on your state.
According to the guys over at Engadget, New York preorders are running $50, while Arizona preorders are a cool $25. No one has an official release date yet, nor an official price for the device, though Engadget speculates it will launch at $300. Your deposit will go directly towards the cost upon release, whatever that may be.
The 3DS is sure to be a super-seller for Nintendo. When the original launched in 2004 it was sold out around the nation within hours of going on sale. The Nintendo Wii had the same fate, spending years in the 'unavailable' department at most retail stores. Folks jonesing for a Nintendo 3DS may want to head down to Gamestop first chance they get and place that preorder, which guarantees you'll receive one come launch day. Engadget is quick to note that if your fellow Gamestop employee can't figure out how to handle the preorder, tell them to use code '020132'.
