While last year may have been a bit of a struggle for the Wii U, the same can’t be said for the Nintendo 3DS which set several milestones in 2013. The handheld, combined with the Nintendo 2DS, has gone on to sell over 11.5 million units in the United States alone. Additionally, over 16 million pieces of software for the portable systems, both digital and packaged retail, were sold last year. Nintendo also goes on to boast about the 3DS having some the highest rated games last year, highlighting seven titles which received Metacritic scores of 85 and above–two of those, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds and Fire Emblem: Awakening, earning scores of 91 and 92 respectively.
Scott Moffitt, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing, said “Nintendo 3DS is a powerhouse with games and experiences that appeal to all kinds of players.” With a ridiculously strong library of games, there seems to be something for every type of gamer–have it be casual or hardcore. At the end of 2013, Nintendo sold 45% more 3DS games than they did in 2012, with Pokémon X & Y leading the way with over 3 million copies sold in North America.
“We’re not slowing down in 2014”, Moffitt continues. “With more games featuring fan-favorite franchises on the way, the best days of the Nintendo 3DS are still to come. ” With Bravely Default Flying Fairy (Feb. 7) and Yoshi’s New Island (March 14) starting the year off for the Nintendo 3DS, the once ‘doomed’ handheld looks to continue its dominance.
Source: Nintendo Press Release (January 10, 2014)