3DS Circle Pad Pro Add-On Bundled With Resident Evil Game

Nintendo UK intends to bundle Capcom's Resident Evil: Revelations with its contentious Circle Pad Pro add-on for Nintendo 3DS when the game releases in Europe on January 27. Revealed two months ago, the Circle Pad Pro, which adds a second analog stick and extra shoulder buttons to the 3DS, was met with skepticism from analysts and gamers questioning why Nintendo did not include its features in the handheld's original design. The timing of the peripheral's announcement didn't help, as Nintendo was suffering dismal sales for the 3DS, coming off a drastic price cut for the portable, and preparing to announce its first annual net loss in the 30 years since it began reporting its financials. As with Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D, Nintendo will distribute Revelations and its limited edition bundle in Europe (Capcom will handle the title in other territories). The survival horror shooter will be the first title in the West to support the accessory. While the Circle Pad Pro is not required to play Revelations, it adds an extra control scheme enabling players to "use specific button combinations for more effective or expert play, and enjoy traditional-style controls which make use of both Circle Pads". Revelations will ship in North America on February 14, but neither Capcom nor Nintendo have announced a Circle Pad Pro bundle for that territory. Capcom, though, said the game will sell for $50, $10 higher than most new releases, due to its size. In Japan, gamers will be able to purchase the Circle Pad Pro and play it with Capcom's Monster Hunter Tri-G, when it releases there on December 10. That title will also receive a special Circle Pad Pro bundle, as well as a White 3DS system bundle. Other upcoming games that will feature support for the Circle Pad Pro include Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D, Dynasty Warriors Vs., Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance, and the Japanese version of Ace Combat 3D: Cross Rumble.