Nintendo 3DS receives a Japanese release date, names launch titles

First off, sorry of the lack of activity on VGF as of late (including the lateness of this particular set of news). I've been focusing my attention in a few different directions as of late and my soon begin to do some writing for Gameinatrix.com which is very exciting.

Nevertheless, Nintendo announced the Japanese release date and price for its new 3D handheld - Nintendo 3DS.

The console is set for release on Feb. 26 in Japan at a price point that converts to about $300 U.S. A North American release will likely follow one to two months later so save some room in your Easter basket.

A new, Japanese announcement trailer accompanied the announcement last week. Does anyone read Japanese?



The Nintendo 3DS is also backwards compatible with Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles via the Virtual Console similar to the Nintendo Wii, so be prepared to again fork out some cash for games you already own. The Nintendo 3DS should play Nintendo DS game, but it is unclear if the system will play Game Boy Advanced cartridges - but, what's their incentive?

The Nintendo 3DS will launch with 10 title including a 3D upgrade to the 1998 classic - and arguably the greatest video game every made - "The Legend of Zelda" Ocarina of Time." Check out a full list of launch and announced titles via Gamespot.com:

Spring 2011
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D--Nintendo
Nintendogs + Cats--Nintendo
Pilotwings Resort (working title)--Nintendo
Pro Baseball Spirits--Konami
Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle--Level 5
Ridge Racer 3D--Namco Bandai
Samurai Warriors Chronicle--Tecmo Koei
Steel Diver--Nintendo
Super Monkey Ball (working title)--Sega
Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition--Capcom

Unspecified 2011
Kid Icarus: Uprising--Nintendo
Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D - The Naked Sample--Konami

To Be Announced
Chocobo Racing 3D (working title)--Square Enix
Star Fox 64 3D--Nintendo
Animal Crossing (working title)--Nintendo
Dead or Alive: Dimensions--Tecmo Koei
Paper Mario (working title)--Nintendo
Mario Kart (working title)--Nintendo
Resident Evil: Revelations--Capcom
Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D--Capcom