Nintendo 3DS Reveal Prompted By Press Leak?

Back when Nintendo mysteriously announced the 3D-capable 3DS in a blunt press release that looked more like an internal memo, we speculated that the company could've been looking to shore up their stock price ahead of the financial year ending.  As it turns out, the move was a defensive one based on Japanese press discovering the 3DS' existence.  According to one analyst, suppliers had spilled the beans on the handheld – which promises stereoscopic gaming without demanding special glasses be worn – and Nintendo chose to break the news themselves.

"Apparently, the Japanese press was all over it and talked with suppliers there and Nintendo just wanted to get out ahead by breaking the news to prevent a leak.  Does it clash with the DSi XL? Yes it does" Billy Pigeon, senior analyst, M2 Research

The news couldn't have come at a worse time for Nintendo of America, what with the DSi XL – which we reviewed yesterday – going on sale shortly after the 3DS was confirmed.  However, it seems Nintendo prioritized their Japanese audience; the DSi XL – as the DSi LL – has been on sale in Japan for several months now.

[via Kotaku]