Nintendo adopts digital release for 3DS and Wii U titles
Nintendo published titles will appear on shelves and online on release
Nintendo's investor briefing revealed that from August Nintendo-published titles will get simultaneous digital and physical retail releases on 3DS.
Nintendo's Wii U titles will follow the same model when the console launches, expected to be later this year.
"For our digital business to grow drastically, it is imperative for us to expand the exposure of the digital download products to potential consumers," said Nintendo president Satoru Iwata.
"Starting from [New Super Mario Bros. 2], the company will offer the software titles that Nintendo itself publishes in both packaged and digital download formats so that our consumers can choose the way to purchase them."
Digital versions of games on 3DS will appear on the Nintendo eShop, and via codes from physical retailers. Crucially Nintendo will not set recommended retail prices for the codes, allowing traders to set their own.
Yesterday Nintendo released its full year financial report for the period ending March 31, 2012. The results revealed the company's first annual loss.