3DS MASSIVE Price Drop - 250 to 170

[substantial_snake]

Pretty much thread title.

http://kotaku.com/5825495/nintendo-3ds-gets-sudden-massive-price-drop

A drop from 250 to about 170 makes it a much more tempting console..when it gets some games. Also makes me chuckle thinking back to Nintendo's reasoning for launching the 3DS at 250 bucks. Thoughts?

[Icarus Moonsight]

With the DSiXL near $200, they had little alternative in pricing the 3DS. I can't wait to see how much the DS units are going to be after the drop. I'd love to pick up a brand new DSLite for $50

Your move Sony.
Regards,
Nintendo

[SpaceHarrier]

At least they are offering 20 free d/l games to the early adopters, who bought (or buy?) before the price drop takes effect on Aug 12.

Suddenly, my (renewed) interest in this system starts to RISE!

[Colorado Rockies]

Wow that was fast. I'll pick one up at this price just for Ocarina.

[Swamperon]

I'm amazed to see they're dropping it by that much this quickly. I guess the slowish sales and recent slew of bad press around it have prompted them.

However it is the best thing to do. The damn thing was clearly way over priced. They got greedy. Still, big price drops after launch are often seen negatively.

Good to see they're recouping people who bought early. Will be interesting to see how big a drop the UK sees.

[Press_Start]

I'm not too disappointed by the price drop. Actually, I'm happy as a calm since I'm getting 20 free games with my $250 purchase. :D

(Which makes Sony's PSN compensation look really weak.)

As for the price drop itself, many reasons why Nintendo did it:

Spring $250 experiment didn't displace as many 3DS as they hoped. And the unloading of major blockbusters (Kid Icarus, Super Mario 3D, etc.), they want to guarantee a great first holiday season for the handheld.
PS Vita's matching launch price might have put some serious heat for big N to opt the markdown. Then again, the attractive $170 price tag now might have made it worse since it puts even more serious heat on Sony to perform AND compete better @ Christmas '11.
And that's all I got for now.... :P

[Nz17]

At least they are offering 20 free d/l games to the early adopters, who bought (or buy?) before the price drop takes effect on Aug 12.

More details: http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2011/07/nintendo-3ds-price-drop/

To wit, we early buyers are getting twenty games at no additional cost... but those games are re-releases of first-party NES and GBA games. Like many of you, I already own most of these and have little interest in the rest. That's partly why I didn't buy them the first time!

Don't get me wrong, I've had some good times with my 3DS and I'll be downloading these re-releases, but I just don't feel I got $80 out of the 3DS from these first four months. Suped-up versions of Street Fighter IV and Zelda 64 alongside Shantae: Risky's Revenge were all fun plays, but everything else save for Kirby's Dream Land was all average to poor. Yes I find the Netflix app useful, and the 3DS's built-in apps have been amusing and useful at times as well. But a lot of this newest stuff should have been there from the start (like Netflix and the Web browser) and a set of 20 ROM dumps doesn't really feel like much compensation for the sudden devaluation of the hardware.

For those who haven't yet bought a 3DS, there's been no better time to buy than August 12 - you'll finally get the features and price the handheld console should have had in the first place.

[dairugger]

heres a list of the free games offered to early adaptors:

If you purchased a 3DS anytime before the price cut date, you will receive 10 free Virtual Console NES and 10 free Gameboy Advance games. Users must connect to the Nintendo eShop at least once before the price cut date. They will then be automatically registered in the Nintendo 3DS Ambassador program.

The list of NES games include:

Super Mario Bros.
Donkey Kong Jr.
Balloon Fight
Ice Climber
The Legend of Zelda
+5 more

These titles are slated to become paid downloadable games, but Ambassadors get them early for free. "Once the paid versions of the games are posted to the Nintendo eShop later in the year, the updated versions will be available to Ambassadors for download at no cost."

The list of GBA games include:

Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3
Mario Kart: Super Circuit
Metroid Fusion
WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$
Mario vs. Donkey Kong
+5 more

Nintendo says the GBA games will be available exclusively to Ambassadors, and that it "currently has no plans to make these 10 games available to the general public on the Nintendo 3DS in the future."

I think this is a great move by nintendo. I bought my 3ds on day one and dont feel cheated, ive had a blast with it. and i think its great that theyre giving something to us early buyers, they dont have to but they did.

[misfits859]

Wow that was fast. I'll pick one up at this price just for Ocarina.

Yep, me too. Been debating picking it up for that reason for the past few weeks. Guess I can wait a couple more. Woot!

[megasdkirby]

Could this mean that a different version of the 3DS, which was talked about earlier, be the reason for the current price drop of the console? Maybe Nintendo plans to release an XL version for a bit more...maybe for $200?

[portnoyd]

They better throw in some Astroglide with those downloadable 3DS shop games (THAT I ALREADY HAVE 3 PHYSICAL COPIES OF, EACH) because that's how my asshole is feeling right now. Why must you rape my butthole, Nintendo? Why?

[Oobgarm]

They better throw in some Astroglide with those downloadable 3DS shop games (THAT I ALREADY HAVE 3 PHYSICAL COPIES OF, EACH) because that's how my asshole is feeling right now. Why must you rape my butthole, Nintendo? Why?

Hey, here's some free shit that you'll likely not play since you already have it. I'd imagine that at least half of the early adopter base already has those titles in some shape or fashion, or has absolutely zero interest in them.

I applaud that they're giving something to those who bought early, at least.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Nintendo says the GBA games will be available exclusively to Ambassadors, and that it "currently has no plans to make these 10 games available to the general public on the Nintendo 3DS in the future."

While I appreciate the free GBA software, not making those available for purchase makes no sense considering those are some pretty desirable titles that I'm sure the late adopters would like to have on their system. (And could easily net Nintendo big profit.)

[Icarus Moonsight]

They can always change their minds anytime after August 12th.

[Swamperon]

It says 'currently have no plans'. Give it a year and I bet a good portion of those titles will have been released on the 3DS VC.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Okay, so ... any details on how we get these games?

Just log in to the 3DS shop and download? Register a code for points?

*edit* never mind, games aren't available until September 1st (for the NES games). I thought they'd be day/date with the price drop.

[RPG_Fanatic]

That's a good drop but I still don't want one. Now my wish is Sony will drop the Vita to $200.

[zemmix]

Sweet this means I'll be able to pick up a nearly new used copy here in Japan for ¥12000 or so.

[Darko]

I'd rather just have the difference in price. I already have physical copies of every game they've listed for Ambassadors thus far. Why would I want to play them on a system that has 3 hours of battery when I have the other systems sitting on my shelf ready to go? I'm willing to accept the price drop, but at least offer something ORIGINAL to the early adopters instead of rehashing the same shit for the 200th time.

[Robocop2]

Well this news makes it all of the sudden more tempting to ignore the battery life.... I gues I could always get an extended battery

[VACRMH]

Well this makes buying another system so my wife can get her Animal Crossing fix alot less painful :)

[kupomogli]

Really sucks for those who bought it on day one, but the free 20 games was a nice gesture.

Something like this was pretty inevitable though. If Nintendo kept the 3DS the exact same price point until the PS Vita launch, then Vita would probably have been the winner no contest. Either that, or maybe Nintendo should have waited a bit longer before announcing the price drop as there's a lot Sony can end up doing in four months.

I still think the Vita is the far better system for its price as it has every feature available that the 3DS(minus 3D and dual screen) has plus extras and is more powerful than the Wii. Unfortunately everyone looks price rather than functionality most of the time, and this will cause a dent in Sony's sales for the Vita no doubt. Come on Sony. Fire back with a $199 PS Vita.


[I'm not too disappointed by the price drop. Actually, I'm happy as a calm since I'm getting 20 free games with my $250 purchase.

(Which makes Sony's PSN compensation look really weak.)

Yeah. $80 dollars for 20 free games that most Nintendo fans already have or four free games(out of nine) that some PS3/PSP fans already have because your name, address, and password is stolen, as well as a month of PSN downtime. Neither deal is good, but I'll take Sony's deal being that my identity is safe and I got it all for nothing more than an inconvenience.

[RCM]

Kind of a slap in the face to early adopters, regardless. This probably puts more pressure on Sony, which actually has an intriguing piece of hardware coming.

I'm still waiting until they revise the hardware, come out with good games and drop the price of the software. I shouldn't have to pay $30-$40 for Tetris 3D when I get pretty much the same thing on a smart phone for a fraction of the price.

I wonder if this will have an effect on their Wii U strategy at all.

[Damaramu]

Glad I fucking waited. I thought the 3DS had a weak launch line up, so there was nothing to entice me to buy one. None of the free games interest me either as I already own most of them.

I'm still going to wait for more/better games and to see if they announce anything else (like a 3DS XL or the like).

I'm very interested to see what Sony does with the Vita, price-wise. That's such a sweet looking handheld.

[kupomogli]

I just thought of something for those that were now going to pick up the 3DS due to the price drop.

The only reason this would work is we know of it in advance. Go and pick it up for the $250 price point before the price drop. Join the Ambassador Program, get the free 20 games and as soon as the price drop hits, bring your receipt back to the store and complain. Being that it's been less than a month you are able to get a refund back up to whatever you paid more($80.) Do it on Amazon and you don't have to pay for tax(just make sure you don't do free shipping or you might not get it in time.)

[jcalder8]

I just thought of something for those that were now going to pick up the 3DS due to the price drop.

The only reason this would work is we know of it in advance. Go and pick it up for the $250 price point before the price drop. Join the Ambassador Program, get the free 20 games and as soon as the price drop hits, bring your receipt back to the store and complain. Being that it's been less than a month you are able to get a refund back up to whatever you paid more($80.) Do it on Amazon and you don't have to pay for tax(just make sure you don't do free shipping or you might not get it in time.)
This is what I was thinking too. But I might rather just get a used system for even cheaper than getting 20 games that I don't want.

[skaar]

I just thought of something for those that were now going to pick up the 3DS due to the price drop.

The only reason this would work is we know of it in advance. Go and pick it up for the $250 price point before the price drop. Join the Ambassador Program, get the free 20 games and as soon as the price drop hits, bring your receipt back to the store and complain. Being that it's been less than a month you are able to get a refund back up to whatever you paid more($80.) Do it on Amazon and you don't have to pay for tax(just make sure you don't do free shipping or you might not get it in time.)

I think we should add you to the "ethics guy" pile.

[badinsults]

I bought a 3DS yesterday.

Crap.

Unlike most people here (and I assume most people in general), I don't have any of the downloadable games, as I don't have an NES or much GBA stuff.

[Bojay1997]

I just thought of something for those that were now going to pick up the 3DS due to the price drop.

The only reason this would work is we know of it in advance. Go and pick it up for the $250 price point before the price drop. Join the Ambassador Program, get the free 20 games and as soon as the price drop hits, bring your receipt back to the store and complain. Being that it's been less than a month you are able to get a refund back up to whatever you paid more($80.) Do it on Amazon and you don't have to pay for tax(just make sure you don't do free shipping or you might not get it in time.)

Not a good plan at all with regard to Amazon. They don't price adjust on anything but TVs now. While you might be able to convince a customer service rep to give you a credit, it's definitely YMMV with the likelihood now that this is public knowledge of them saying no very high.

[binici]

Here is Nintendo's official statement? Anyone thinking that Black Friday will have some killer deals? :onfire:

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Nintendo of America today announced plans to drop the suggested retail price of its portable Nintendo 3DS™system to $169.99 in the United States, as new games based on some of the world’s most beloved video game franchises head to the system. The new price, down from the suggested launch price of $249.99 and effective Aug. 12, makes an outstanding value even better and sets up a strong holiday season for the system.

“For anyone who was on the fence about buying a Nintendo 3DS, this is a huge motivation to buy now,” said Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. “We are giving shoppers every incentive to pick up a Nintendo 3DS, from an amazing new price to a rapid-fire succession of great games.”

Nintendo 3DS has the strongest software lineup of any video game system this holiday season and the new price now opens up the glasses-free 3D experience to many more consumers. Building on the popularity of The Legend of Zelda™: Ocarina of Time™ 3D, which launched June 19, the upcoming game calendar is a Who’s Who of iconic video game franchises. Star Fox 64™ 3D arrives on Sept. 9, followed by Super Mario™ 3D Land in November, Mario Kart™ 7 in December and Kid Icarus™: Uprising during the holiday season. In addition to great games, Nintendo 3DS has a host of attractive features* that make it the must-have video game system this season:

The new Nintendo Video™ service automatically delivers short 3D videos from the worlds of music, comedy, animation and Hollywood.A free application allows Netflix members with unlimited streaming plans to instantly watch TV episodes and movies streaming from Netflix.

The Nintendo eShop is a digital store for Nintendo 3DS owners that provides access to a wide variety of downloadable content, such as original 3D software, classic games that have been re-mastered in 3D called 3D Classics, Game Boy™ and Game Boy Color “Virtual Console” games in their original 2D glory, and more than 350 Nintendo DSiWare™ games. Visitors can also view video game trailers, screen shots and product information for games, including those available at retail locations.

Since Nintendo 3DS launched in the United States on March 27, more than 830,000 people in the U.S. alone have purchased one to enjoy 3D visuals without the need for special glasses. These Nintendo 3DS owners represent some of Nintendo’s most loyal customers, and Nintendo is rewarding them for getting in on the action early with 20 free downloadable games from the Nintendo eShop.

These free games are available to anyone who owns a Nintendo 3DS system and uses a wireless broadband Internet signal to connect to the Nintendo eShop at least once before 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Aug. 11. These users will automatically be registered in the Nintendo 3DS Ambassador program. The program contains two elements:

Starting Sept. 1, Nintendo 3DS Ambassadors will be able to download 10 NES™ Virtual Console™ games at no charge and before they are available in the Nintendo eShop to the general public. These games, including Super Mario Bros.™, Donkey Kong Jr.™, Balloon Fight™, Ice Climber™ and The Legend of Zelda™, are slated to become paid downloadable games, but Ambassadors get them early for free. Once the paid versions of the games are posted to the Nintendo eShop later in the year, the updated versions will be available to Ambassadors for download at no cost. By the end of 2011, Nintendo will provide Ambassadors with 10 Game Boy Advance Virtual Console games. These include games like Yoshi’s Island™: Super Mario™ Advance 3, Mario Kart™: Super Circuit, Metroid™ Fusion, WarioWare™, Inc.: Mega Microgame$ and Mario vs. Donkey Kong™. These games will be available exclusively to Ambassadors, and Nintendo currently has no plans to make these 10 games available to the general public on the Nintendo 3DS in the future.

More details about this program will be announced in the future.

[kupomogli]

I think we should add you to the "ethics guy" pile.

I'm only suggesting doing something within your legal bounds. I wouldn't go to Ebay and bid $400 on Little Samson because I know I'm not going to win it at that price just because I want to be a dick.

[skaar]

I'm only suggesting doing something within your legal bounds. I wouldn't go to Ebay and bid $400 on Little Samson because I know I'm not going to win it at that price just because I want to be a dick.

You'd be surprised what you can get away with legally. Doesn't make it ethical.

[Rob2600]

I just thought of something for those that were now going to pick up the 3DS due to the price drop.

The only reason this would work is we know of it in advance. Go and pick it up for the $250 price point before the price drop. Join the Ambassador Program, get the free 20 games and as soon as the price drop hits, bring your receipt back to the store and complain. Being that it's been less than a month you are able to get a refund back up to whatever you paid more($80.)

Brilliant idea. I'm sure a store owner like Joe would love his customers pulling nonsense like this.

[kupomogli]

Wouldn't Nintendo have to eat the cost rather than the store it was purchased at? With the price drop there's sure to be some reimbursement for overstock 3DS. The 3DS that are not in stock and under the 30 day return policy should also be covered if they're returned within that period of time.


You'd be surprised what you can get away with legally. Doesn't make it ethical.

So you ever play emulators Skaar? Or give a 360 to a family member with a bunch of burnt games because Microsoft locked your console from XBL for not purchasing their overpriced hard drives? Even the most saintly person does something that people wouldn't agree with(speaking of saintly, should I bring up priests?)

I'm not even going to buy a 3DS and do it. I only recommended it. I'm still waiting for the 3DS XL with a battery life that is more than three hours.

[skaar]

Wouldn't Nintendo have to eat the cost rather than the store it was purchased at? With the price drop there's sure to be some reimbursement for overstock 3DS. The 3DS that are not in stock and under the 30 day return policy should also be covered if they're returned within that period of time.

Now you're rationalizing. What the hell, man.

[Icarus Moonsight]

You'd be surprised what you can get away with legally. Doesn't make it ethical.

http://i.qkme.me/41j4.jpg

[skaar]

So you ever play emulators Skaar? Or give a 360 to a family member with a bunch of burnt games because Microsoft locked your console from XBL for not purchasing their overpriced hard drives? Even the most saintly person does something that people wouldn't agree with(speaking of saintly, should I bring up priests?)

I'm not even going to buy a 3DS and do it. I only recommended it. I'm still waiting for the 3DS XL with a battery life that is more than three hours.

I use emulators and have given away a 360 with burned games.

These actions fit within my personal code of ethics. Your actions fit within yours. I'm comfortable with mine, and I'm glad you're comfortable with yours.

I just don't agree with yours.

But I will download my 20 3DS games :)

[Icarus Moonsight]

Actions over words man. Look at the world, people don't need recommendations to be pricks. They're doing fairly well without help. :)

If you want both the low price and the 20 games, a perfectly honest means to that is to buy a used one that was connected to E-Shop (check the unit before you buy) when the used prices drop along with the retail.

[kupomogli]

I wasn't trying to offend anyone. I was just saying why not if you're interested in picking the system up anyways. The games are atleast 10 years old and it's pretty much emulation regardless, so whether you got the games on your 3DS by doing it through these specific unethical means, or you get a flash card and play the same games through other unethical means, it's still emulation. You're still doing what you shouldn't be doing.

I'm sure no one in this forum is by the book. Everyone here that has a PSP probably has one that's downgraded. I'm sure that those that do have a downgraded PSP have atleast one emulator.

For those that do have the system, enjoy the 20 games. I'd say the 10 already listed are pretty good.


Actions over words man. Look at the world, people don't need recommendations to be pricks. They're doing fairly well without help

This is true. There's this thread in classic gaming about bidding on Little Samson for example.

[ScourDX]

If Nintendo wants to make more money, how about make 3DS region free and release Xenoblade Chronicles, The Last Story, Pandora’s Tower, and the Mother series (Earthbound) to N. America. I'm sure that will make your fan happy and make your investor happy.

[fishsandwich]

From CNN...

"The company is 39 million units short of projected sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, and has cut financial projections for the year from 110 billion yen to 20 billion yen -- a plunge of 82 percent."

Wow. That's a big drop.

http://www.cnn.com/2011/TECH/gaming.gadgets/07/28/nintendo.price.drop.3ds.frum/index.html



!

[Icarus Moonsight]

Their hardware sold well (Wii/DS), it's the software woes they can't shake. They can't carry themselves in the market anymore with first party releases like they could, at least marginally well, since the N64. There is too much competition and, variety and convenience is winning (iOS/Android).

[Baloo]

If Nintendo wants to make more money, how about make 3DS region free and release Xenoblade Chronicles, The Last Story, Pandora’s Tower, and the Mother series (Earthbound) to N. America. I'm sure that will make your fan happy and make your investor happy.

Sorry, but RPGs are still a small niche that aren't going to be million-sellers in the US. It doesn't matter how much of a hardcore fanbase anything has, these games will NOT sell as good as you think they will.

As for the price drop, they're definitely going to spring back from this, I think. I can see the 3DS making a huge comeback when the holiday season rolls around.

[Press_Start]

Hey, I found reason #3:

Nintendo's Cuts Net Income Forecast 82% (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/07/28/sony-and-nintendo-cut-profit-forecasts-amidst-low-hardware-demand/)



If Nintendo kept the 3DS the exact same price point until the PS Vita launch, then Vita would probably have been the winner no contest. Either that, or maybe Nintendo should have waited a bit longer before announcing the price drop as there's a lot Sony can end up doing in four months.

The way I see it, Nintendo has massive appeal (i.e. kids, adults, teens, etc.) while Vita's appeals to only one demographic (i.e. young adults) and that's Sony problem. Sure, LBP is the exception but it shouldn't be if they're serious in going toe-to-toe with 3DS. Judging by their upcoming software holiday line-up, Nintendo would still "win" hands down cause they have great titles (i.e. Kid Icarus, Mario Kart, Super Mario, RE: Revelations, Devil Survivor) for everyone.

[substantial_snake]

That's a good drop but I still don't want one. Now my wish is Sony will drop the Vita to $200.

The two things preventing me from going out and picking up a post price drop 3DS now are battery life and games. I still don't see any software that really interests me in the system outside of 1 or 2 titles and I don't see a whole lot on the horizon. Hopefully once they move more units some previously canceled games will see the light of day but as it stands not a whole lot motivates me to pick one up.

I HIGHLY doubt that Sony could knock off 50 bucks from the Vita's price already but I imagine it could be a really close handheld race. I think with a strong launch it could be interesting.

[Lanzo]

Well I am happy I sould mine a few months back when I needed money, never even opened it. Even so with this price drop I think I will bite because I am itching to play Zelda.

I've have also heard that Nintendo is taking a loss on every 3DS sold now. At least according to Nintendo News twitter. I'm just curious as to how they can possibly get away with that.

[Icarus Moonsight]

Ask Sony and Microsoft, they can tell you.

[Bojay1997]

Well I am happy I sould mine a few months back when I needed money, never even opened it. Even so with this price drop I think I will bite because I am itching to play Zelda.

I've have also heard that Nintendo is taking a loss on every 3DS sold now. At least according to Nintendo News twitter. I'm just curious as to how they can possibly get away with that.

Not sure what you mean by "loss". The bill of parts for a 3DS runs about $108 not including assembly, shipping, marketing, licensing, distribution expenses, etc...At $170, they are probably going to still make a few bucks, just not the significant margins they were making at $250.

[heybtbm]

Amateurs.

If someone wants the 20 downloadable games and the cheaper price do this:

1.) Buy 3DS at Target.
2.) After the price goes down, take your receipt to the service counter and have the price adjusted. They credit the difference back to you.
3.) The end.

Target (and other retailers I'm sure) has a 14-day "price adjustment" policy. I do this all the time when an item goes on sale a week or two after you buy it. No screwing the store, no screwing Nintendo. It's 100% ethical and you get the best of both deals. Just make sure the price drop is 14 days (or less) from when you buy it.

[kupomogli]

Amateurs.

If someone wants the 20 downloadable games and the cheaper price do this:

1.) Buy 3DS at Target.
2.) After the price goes down, take your receipt to the service counter and have the price adjusted. They credit the difference back to you.
3.) The end.

Target (and other retailers I'm sure) has a 14-day "price adjustment" policy. I do this all the time when an item goes on sale a week or two after you buy it. No screwing the store, no screwing Nintendo. It's 100% ethical and you get the best of both deals. Just make sure the price drop is 14 days (or less) from when you buy it.

That's pretty much the same thing I was saying. But what Skaar means is you get the 20 games and you get it at the cheaper price, so in that sense it's unethical because we know about the change beforehand.

[heybtbm]

what Skaar means is you get the 20 games and you get it at the cheaper price, so in that sense it's unethical because we know about the change beforehand.

You missed his point then.

[Gameguy]

I don't see a big deal about getting the 20 games, they're just NES and GBA titles. If they were actually DSiWare games then maybe it would be something significant. I'm guessing if anyone is actually interested in the NES and GBA titles that they'd already have those systems and games to play.

I still don't see anything worth playing on this system, none of the games appeal to me.

[kupomogli]

You missed his point then.

His point was that the 20 free games are for early adopters that overpaid on the 3DS and that's why Nintendo is removing the ambassador program right before the price drop. The idea of getting the 20 free games and overall paying the $170 price is cheating the system.

So no. I didn't miss his point.

[skaar]

His point was that the 20 free games are for early adopters that overpaid on the 3DS and that's why Nintendo is removing the ambassador program right before the price drop. The idea of getting the 20 free games and overall paying the $170 price is cheating the system.

So no. I didn't miss his point.

No, you missed the point. In your example you fuck the retailer.

In your mind, you obviously never thought of that. Or didn't care.

[kupomogli]

I just thought of something for those that were now going to pick up the 3DS due to the price drop.

The only reason this would work is we know of it in advance. (1)Go and pick it up for the $250 price point before the price drop. (2)Join the Ambassador Program, get the free 20 games and as soon as the price drop hits, (3)bring your receipt back to the store and complain. Being that it's been less than a month you are able to get a refund back up to whatever you paid more($80.) Do it on Amazon and you don't have to pay for tax(just make sure you don't do free shipping or you might not get it in time.)

Here's my quote. I'll break it down using the same words and in my quote I'll enter (1) (2) (3.)

1. Pick the 3DS up for $250 before the price drop.
2. Download the games(extra step that heybtbm didn't list but is obvious.)
3. Bring your receipt back to the store and complain about the price drop. Get your $80 you overpaid.


Amateurs.

If someone wants the 20 downloadable games and the cheaper price do this:

1.) Buy 3DS at Target.
2.) After the price goes down, take your receipt to the service counter and have the price adjusted. They credit the difference back to you.
3.) The end.
.

What do you know. The exact same fucking steps. Holy shit.

[Gameguy]

No, you missed the point. In your example you fuck the retailer.
How do you screw over the retailer exactly when most big box stores have price matching policies that cover price drops? If you know of a price being dropped the other thing to do is avoid purchasing until the drop, big box stores know people will wait which is why they offer the price matching. They'd rather get a sale now than have to wait, either way they'll get the same money.

[skaar]

How do you screw over the retailer exactly when most big box stores have price matching policies that cover price drops? If you know of a price being dropped the other thing to do is avoid purchasing until the drop, big box stores know people will wait which is why they offer the price matching. They'd rather get a sale now than have to wait, either way they'll get the same money.

Matching with price protection policies I didn't have any issue with, at all.

The way he was making it sound was more of a purchase/return for refund, the "price matching" came into the game later.

[Mayhem]

1. Pick the 3DS up for $250 before the price drop.
2. Download the games(extra step that heybtbm didn't list but is obvious.)
3. Bring your receipt back to the store and complain about the price drop. Get your $80 you overpaid.
Minor point, but you can't do step two, the games aren't being made available to download until September so I believe.

[Gameguy]

Matching with price protection policies I didn't have any issue with, at all.

The way he was making it sound was more of a purchase/return for refund, the "price matching" came into the game later.
He worded it poorly but it was always about price matching/price protection policies. He said to bring back the receipt to get a partial refund(up to the new lower price). It should have been worded better but it was never about buying a new console for the games and then returning it for a full refund.


I just thought of something for those that were now going to pick up the 3DS due to the price drop.

The only reason this would work is we know of it in advance. Go and pick it up for the $250 price point before the price drop. Join the Ambassador Program, get the free 20 games and as soon as the price drop hits, bring your receipt back to the store and complain. Being that it's been less than a month you are able to get a refund back up to whatever you paid more($80.) Do it on Amazon and you don't have to pay for tax(just make sure you don't do free shipping or you might not get it in time.)

[kupomogli]

You sign up for the ambassador program. Regardless if you get the games then or later, you already signed up for it.


The way he was making it sound was more of a purchase/return for refund, the "price matching" came into the game later.

How am I making it sound any different. I clearly said that if you're already interested in getting the 3DS then these steps you can also get the free 20 games while still paying the $170. I just added that you can do the same from an online retailer to save on taxes.

I did nothing more than quote myself to prove that heybtm listed the exact same steps that I did. I don't know what you were thinking I meant but don't see how you thought any different.

[skaar]

Hey if I misunderstood and put words in your mouth kupo, I apologize. Fair enough.

I feel a little better I wasn't the only one who misinterpreted you, at least ;)

[The 1 2 P]

No big surprise. The handheld was never worth $250 nor do I think any handheld will ever be worth that price point. But with this new price they will be able to actually have a good holiday season, provided they start getting better software out there. Ocarina of Time was a good start but they need to keep the ball rolling. And I'm also very interested in seeing what this does to the cost of all their other Ds portables.

[Icarus Moonsight]

Knowledge and ignorance makes the whole difference for my judgement. Is it wrong, in either case? No. Is it being an ass for knowing and abusing the intent behind what is essentially an offer of goodwill. Yup.

[CDiablo]

I am waiting for the lite. There should be a ton of good games for it by then. I would probably be happy paying $250 for it if I was certain it would have a catalog of games equal to DS but I am not sure about how this gen will go.

[j_factor]

The most interesting part of this news is that the 3DS is now the same price as the DSi XL. Surely this will change soon.

[Rickstilwell1]

His point was that the 20 free games are for early adopters that overpaid on the 3DS and that's why Nintendo is removing the ambassador program right before the price drop. The idea of getting the 20 free games and overall paying the $170 price is cheating the system.

So no. I didn't miss his point.

"The system is down. The cheat is grounded." - StrongBad

Hey it's relevant to this conversation.

[Nz17]

I made a little image that I thought you all would enjoy in light of this news...

3DS - It Does Not Print Money:

http://www.digitpress.com/images/funnies/3DS-It-Does-Not-Print-Money.png

[Robocop2]

I kind of wonder if Best Buy or some other retailer will do a "sale" on the 3DS just before the official price drop happens. If they really had a problem with people buying just to get the free games and then doing a price match they could simply exclude the 3DS from that program until the price drop. Don't tell me if we know about it that major retailers haven't known about it for some time.

[Deadman]

I love how everyone tries to get a deal, work the system, whatever. How about you either buy it and get the games and be happy with it, or wait and save $80 and don't get the free 20 games that most in this thread have complained about anyway?

I bought on day 1, hour 1, just after midnight. I've enjoyed the console for it's 3D camera, face raiders, AR games, and a few of the other offerings. I will be downloading the free games and am looking forward to them in 3D. I don't feel cheated as I knew (as we all did) that the price of the 3DS was going to drop before Christmas. Oh well.

At this point, I think Nintendo's only mistake was announcing the Ambassador program ahead of time. They should have waited until after it was dropped and then broke the news. Then there would be no scamming, no "choice". You either bought early or you didn't.

[kupomogli]

I love how everyone tries to get a deal, work the system, whatever.

http://www.digitpress.com/forum/showthread.php?t=115238

Apparently you do.

[Robocop2]

It kinda sounds to me like some people are just mad that they cant take advantage of the price match deal. I mean I understand the argument that it might be unethical but on the other hand; are you lying or misrepresenting something to a retailer? I.e. are you buying it cheaper somewhere else and then getting a refund at another retailer? Or are you simply taking advantage of a store policy that they offer because you know you can get a deal?
As I said; they likely are and have been aware of the drop for some timed I'd wager and if it really mattered to them they would likely have an exclusion in the match policy specifically for the 3DS. I'm just saying if its okay with the retailer and you're concerned about screwing the retailer what is the problem exactly?

[portnoyd]

http://www.digitpress.com/forum/showthread.php?t=115238

Apparently you do.

Thanks for the generic link to a 28 page thread. Helps your argument greatly.

[Flashback2012]

I'll agree with the general consensus that the $249 price point was too much for this system and it's gimmick. I figured if they were going to price drop, they would have knocked it down to into the $189-199 range, but I'm pleased it's now going to be $169. At the current price point it's definitely a no-buy but the current price point moves it into the realm of consideration. I own the majority of the titles they're giving away for early adopters and it's not enough to justify going out and grabbing a 3DS at it's current price. While I'm not above doing something like what Kupo and others suggested, I usually can't be arsed into making multiple trips. That said, the gap in price is $80 which is a decent chunk of change so I might make an exception.

The only sticking point I have is the price of the software. I guess I'm a cheapskate, but I just can't bring myself to pay $40-50 for portable software. I can barely justify that for console games. I have considerably sized GBA, DS, and PSP libraries because for the most part they've kept the pricing of the software in the $15-30 range. Hopefully with the system pricing dropping like it is, they'll overhaul their pricing on the software to where $40 is a rare roof that titles can hit instead of the baseline norm. If they make it so most titles are $30 with "A" list titles going for $35 and the Square-Enix "Our sh!t don't stink" pricing of $40, I'd be largely okay with it (I'll just wait 6 months on most and pick them up when they drop to $20 :ass:)

[Bojay1997]

It kinda sounds to me like some people are just mad that they cant take advantage of the price match deal. I mean I understand the argument that it might be unethical but on the other hand; are you lying or misrepresenting something to a retailer? I.e. are you buying it cheaper somewhere else and then getting a refund at another retailer? Or are you simply taking advantage of a store policy that they offer because you know you can get a deal?
As I said; they likely are and have been aware of the drop for some timed I'd wager and if it really mattered to them they would likely have an exclusion in the match policy specifically for the 3DS. I'm just saying if its okay with the retailer and you're concerned about screwing the retailer what is the problem exactly?

Yeah, I'm not really seeing the issue here and this is coming from someone that does crazy things like actually tracks Amazon purchases and pays California use tax every year. Stores have a price adjustment policy which can range from a week to 30+ days. Nintendo is aware of this and could have set a cut-off of "purchases before X date" for the free downloads. The retailers can also decide not to do adjustments if they so choose. For example, Amazon generally won't price adjust (although they may give you a credit towards another purchase) and they are currently promoting the new price drop on their site, even though you can't actually buy the 3DS for that price yet. If someone buys the unit for $249 and gets the downloads and then goes back to the retailer for a price adjustment, I'm not seeing the problem. Nobody is engaging in deception and nothing in either the retailer policies or Nintendo's ambassador program policies excludes people that have knowledge of the upcoming price cut from participating.

[Icarus Moonsight]

It's just... Scuzzy. LOL