Nintendo 3DS Japanese Used Sales Doubled In Light of Price Drop

Following the announcement that its 3DS handheld will receive a price drop next week, Nintendo saw used sales of the console double in Japan. Nintendo revealed last week that it will slash the price of the handheld console from its current suggested retail price of ¥25,000 in Japan to ¥15,000 ($249.99 to $169.99 in the U.S.) on August 12. According to data from tracking firm Media Create, and as translated by Andriasang, the 3DS saw a spurt of second-hand purchases in the week following the announcement, with used sales doubling. This is a stark contrast to retail sales of the console, which halved in the same week. Media Create believes used sales have risen due to shops in Japan cutting the prices of their used 3DS consoles in light of the upcoming price drop. The firm also believes that many of those purchasing used 3DS consoles are doing so as a means of receiving the 20 free games that Nintendo is offering to its early adopters. Earlier this month, a survey of Japanese gamers found that nearly a third of Nintendo 3DS owners regret buying the handheld console in light of the upcoming price drop.