Nintendo’s recent notice to the public that playing their new 3DS handheld gaming system could be harmful to children under six has created quite the buzz throughout the video gaming community.  Nintendo’s President, Satoru Iwata, reiterated that they feel it is the responsible thing to do to warn parents that viewing 3D video games could be harmful to children whose eyes are still developing, regardless of how it impacts sales.  He also stated that the 3DS is not dangerous, and that market tests of the product in Japan indicate that parents are not over reacting or shunning the new technology.

The Nintendo 3DS will be the first hand held gaming system where users can play 3D games without wearing any type of 3D glasses.  A demo was available at the CES 2011, and received positive responses from those who stopped by to check it out.  This is not the first time that Nintendo has introduced ground breaking technology in their gaming platforms.  The Nintendo Wii was the forerunner of motion gaming and dramatically changed the landscape of video game technology forever.

Nintendo is hopeful that the 3DS will provide the revenue growth that the company needs after a tough year in 2010.  Recognizing that the video game industry is becoming very crowded, coming up with an innovative and sophisticated new product was one way to set them apart frrom in the current video game frenzy.

The Nintendo 3DS will be released in February to stores in Japan, and in March for the USA and Europe.  The 3DS will cost around $300 in Japan, and a price for US sales has not been shared thus far.  DS fans can sign up to be notified when the 3DS is available for purchase, Sign Up Here.

Source:  Wall Street Journal