Why the 3DS will miss 2010
Iwata explains.
Nintendo will release its glasses-free 3DS next year because if it had released it this year – as planned – it would have failed to make enough consoles to go around.
At a press conference yesterday Nintendo announced the 3DS will release in Japan on 26th February and in March 2011 in Europe and the US.
The news disappointed many gamers who had expected the handheld to release in time for Christmas.
"At first we thought it would be desirable to launch the 3DS within the year," Nintendo president Satoru Iwata explained, "so we made our forecasts on that basis.
"At this point it is clear that if we launch within the year, we will not be able to supply enough units."
Despite Iwata's claim, many analysts predict shortages when the 3DS eventually goes on sale. The Wii, fans will remember, was difficult to get hold of for months after its launch.
The 3DS is the successor to the phenomenally successful DS handheld series. It includes a motion sensor and a slider that can be used play games in 3D without the need to wear glasses.