14 DAY TRIAL // Nintendo has just revealed that the games for its new 3DS console aren't required to use the 3D functionality of the device, largely because many gamers won't be able to thoroughly enjoy them.
Nintendo has been hyping its 3DS console since its official reveal at last year's E3 conference, with the glasses-free 3D capability being the most praised feature of the device.
Now though, after observing that quite a lot of people can't even see the 3D effects on the device because of pre-existing conditions, Nintendo is backing down on the marketing hype and its restrictions on game developers.
Speaking with Wired magazine, 3DS development producer Hideki Konno said that all software made for the 3DS will have to work both in 2D mode as well as in 3D, so that nobody gets left out.
"We want to get software out to as many people as possible, and there are some people who just can’t see 3D," said Konno. "We’re moving away from any stance that says if you don’t use the 3D functionality you can’t play this game."
This move from Nintendo might certainly hamper the sales of the 3DS, as it effectively turns it from the first mass market 3D device to just a more powerful DS console, with a few extra features.
Konno also shared his views on the possibility of getting game demos on the 3DS, and said that Nintendo isn't so sure about the profitability of such an attempt.
"I question whether or not demos are effective," said Konno. "There are cases where people play a demo game and they’re satisfied with that play experience and they don’t buy the game. There are also times when they play a demo and think, ‘Wow, this is great, I’m going to buy this when I have the chance.’ So whether or not it’s an effective use of resources, I’m not sure."
Demos are technically possible on the 3DS, according to Konno, so who knows what the future has in store for the portable device.