Last week, it was suggested that the 3DS would region lock its software, and today Nintendo has stated that the 3DS will not be a universal device. Instead, there will be three versions of the system — one for North America, one for Japan, and one for Europe/Australia.
“Nintendo has developed different versions of Nintendo 3DS hardware to take into account different languages, age rating requirements and parental control functionality as well as to ensure compliance with local laws in each region,” states the publisher. “Nintendo 3DS also offers network services specifically tailored for each region.
“Additionally we want to ensure the best possible gaming experience for our users and there is the possibility that Nintendo 3DS software sold in one region will not function properly when running on Nintendo 3DS hardware sold in another.”
The general message seems to be that, while some games might not be region locked, others could be. Nintendo helpfully suggests that you don’t buy games outside of your own territory to avoid confusion. This is, of course, great news for European customers who get to pleasure of waiting anywhere from six months to a year before Nintendo bothers to give them games.
Nintendo confirms 3DS region-lock [VG247]
