Nintendo 3DS may reach Japan on November 20
updated 03:55 pm EDT, Sun September 12, 2010
Accessory maker hints at 3DS shipping November 11
A slip today by Japanese accessory creator keysfactory may have preempted Nintendo's plans to reveal a 3DS release date. A designer with the firm posted Twitter updates (since deleted) that 11 add-ons for the game console would ship November 20 and, based on translation by Nintendo 3DS Blog, simultaneously with the 3DS itself. Nintendo has implied an end-of-year launch in at least Japan but hasn't pledged itself to that timeframe so far.
While unconfirmed, the details would be in step with Nintendo's recent launch history. The Wii, DSi and DSi XL were all released on a Saturday, and Nintendo has often preferred weekend launches to guarantee that its child audience and their parents have a chance to shop. Most software-only Nintendo launches are on Sundays.
The 3DS is the first major overhaul to Nintendo's DS line in its six-year history and will use a faster processor and graphics chip combo powerful enough to not only drive a larger main screen but to add glasses-free 3D and more visual detail. Persistent Wi-Fi and 3D photography will also be part of the design.
