Nintendo comments on 3DS region locking, disappoints everyone

Without a shadow of a doubt the 3DS is region locked, and Nintendo tells us why

There was reports from Nintendo Japan last week that Nintendo 3DS was to be region locked. We knew it was going to happen – just like the world will turn tomorrow. Speaking to VG247, Nintendo has given us their reasons as to why the system is region locked and well, it’s like the 1980’s again – only worse.

Nintendo has confirmed that there are 3 versions of Nintendo 3DS, Japanese, American and combined European/Australian region.

So why? Their official statement is as follows; 

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. 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.

Nintendo will also be clearly marking game and hardware packaging- as if it’s going to make us feel any better.

Nintendo pioneered region free gaming with the Gameboy, celebrated it even – now this step back into the world of PAL and NTSC is a shocking reminder that Nintendo have come far – but still need to wrap their head around certain issues.

Update: Nintendo also mentions that "here is the possibility that Nintendo 3DS software sold in one region will not function properly when running on Nintendo 3DS hardware sold in another". This has led to speculation that not all games will be region locked but some might be. Well find out tomorrow we think!

Dear Nintendo, we are disappointed.