Nintendo disclosed that it plans to use a new anti-piracy security measure for the 3D version of its DS handheld gaming console.
Codenamed the 3DS, Nintendo is expected to show off the next-generation gaming unit during E3 next month, though specific anti-piracy details will not be offered. The Nintendo 3DS is expected to launch anytime before March 2011, with a specific release date to be revealed at a later date.
"We fear a kind of thinking is become widespread that paying for software is meaningless," said Nintendo President Satoru Iwata, when chatting with the Associated Press. "We have a strong sense of crisis about this problem."
Discussing the anti-piracy measures -- even if the new technology interferes with game play -- weren't discussed, since it is possible pirates are already looking for hints.
There also have been health concerns related to 3D technology in the living room, so Nintendo will also include a 3D-to-2D downgrade function for users. Research will continue into what effects (if any) viewing 3D has on users, but it’s good Nintendo is adding this feature just in case.
Even though Nintendo continues to easily outsell the rival Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP) handheld console, there is a growing interest in mobile gaming using smartphones and tablets.
Nintendo has had difficulty preventing wide-scale software piracy with the DS in the past, so I'm interested to see what the company has up its sleeve. The DSi had added anti-piracy measures, but crackers were able to quickly circumvent the new technology.
