Analyst says 3DS announcement prior to DSi XL release is unfortunate
“It is unfortunate for the Nintendo DSi XL. New hardware announcements certainly impacts consumers’ willingness to purchase old hardware that may be “obsolete” in less than a year. But I am sure people plan on not buying the Nintendo DSi XL just as much now as they did yesterday. Gamers have been patiently waiting for an announcement on what will succeed the Nintendo DS. Three years ago I remember seeing people bust out their Nintendo DS at the airport, on trains, waiting in-line. Now recently, I’ve noticed more and more are turning to the iPhone to quench their entertainment thirst. Also, the DS is plagued with piracy, something that Nintendo can barely control. Their only true power-move to stop piracy is to simply start all over again with new hardware. I don’t think its success will come into question. Release a new Mario title, promise us a new Link game is on the way, and dazzle us with Donkey Kong in 3D, and gamers will line-up around the block to buy one.” – EEDAR analyst Jesse Divnich
Even if it was a great surprise, I am still wondering why Nintendo announced the 3DS today. Maybe it’s coming out a lot sooner then people think? Maybe Nintendo wanted to help combat all the Sony Move hype? What ever the reason is, I am sure we will see the DSi XL take a hit from this announcement.
March 23, 2010
I sort of equate DSi XL with the Game Boy Micro. The Micro came out well after the DS launch. The XL is just the final send off for the DS. Nintendo of course hopes it sells well but it doesn’t seem as major as the DS Lite or The DSi release.
I bet one of the reasons it was announced was to get developers hard at work on games. But whatever the reason I can’t wait to see the 3DS!!