14 DAY TRIAL // Several North American retailers have already slashed the price on the Nintendo 3DS handheld console, before the August 12 date officially set by the Japanese company when the 3DS price cut was confirmed at the end of July.
Nintendo, after months of fledgeling sales, has finally confirmed earlier last month that the price of the 3DS will be cut by around 30 percent, from the original $249.99 to just $169.99. The move will enter in effect tomorrow, on August 12, across North America.
It seems that many retailers have already started jumping the gun, as outlets like Wal-Mart, Target or Best Buy offering the 3DS at $169.99 before the price cut is official.
Buyers who take advantage of this offer, get a 3DS and, if they access the online eShop before the end of today (August 11), will become members of the 3DS Ambassador program, meaning they'll get 20 free games.
This Ambassador program was presented by Nintendo as a token of appreciation to those who bought the 3DS at its old price of $249.99. Now, through these sneaky offers, customers can buy the 3DS at a lower price and also get the free games.
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime commented for IGN on the decisions of the retailers, saying that the outlets are doing these moves "at their own cost," and that the prices of products are recommended by manufacturers, not imposed, so Wal-Mart, Target or Best Buy can sell it at whatever price they choose.
As you can see, even if it means an $80 dollar loss, the aforementioned retailers are keen on attracting customers with the promise of cheaper 3DS consoles, earlier than the competition, as well as the ability to join the Ambassador program and get 20 free games.
Until tomorrow, when the Nintendo 3DS price cut is official and the doors of the Ambassador program are closed, people can still take advantage of this offer at several retailers across North America.