Nintendo: "This is the year of 3DS"

The next 12 months will be crucial in the success of 3DS, says Nintendo.

The firm believes this is the year that it will upgrade customers from DS to its latest portable, thanks to a major year of releases, headlined by Luigi’s Mansion, Animal Crossing, Brain Training, The Legend of Zelda and Pokemon.

The company told MCV that these games will be backed by significant marketing campaigns that include TV advertising.

Our aim is obviously to upgrade as many DS owners as possible and with our strongest ever software line up and with games which appeal to all of our different audiences, this year really is the year of 3DS,” said Nintendo UK’s marketing boss Shelly Pearce.

3DS has really come into its own over the last two years. The 2013 software line-up is the strongest we’ve ever had and combined with a diverse back-catalogue that includes both Nintendo favourites like Mario, Professor Layton and Zelda as well as titles like Kid Icarus and Heroes of Ruin or New Style Boutique, there really is something for everyone.”

Commenting on the marketing activity this year, 3DS product manager Roger Langford added: You can expect to see extensive sampling, heavy weight TV campaigns, significant online activity and a focus on building communities via social media and events.

Check out today’s issue of MCV to read our full interview with Nintendo UK.