Nintendo announces red 3DS, more upcoming games

By Rick Marshall August 10, 2011

The price cut for the Nintendo 3DS officially goes into effect this weekend — though some retailers are already offering reduced-price models — but if you’re willing to wait a few more weeks, you’ll be able to pick up more than just a cheaper 3DS. Starting September 9, you’ll also be able to pick up a “flame red” version of the handheld 3-D gaming system.

Nintendo announced the upcoming arrival of the red 3DS in U.S. and European markets early this morning, and also offered up some details about the new 3DS titles that will go on sale between now and the holidays. Among the planned 2011 releases are 3DS games based on popular franchises like Star Fox, Super Mario, and Pokemon.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what will be available, and when it’s expected to hit shelves in the U.S., according to Nintendo:

– The new Star Fox game, Star Fox 64 3D, will be released September 9.

– Pokemon fans will be happy to hear that Nintendo is targeting an October 24 release for Pokemon Rumble Blast, the first fully 3-D title in the franchise.

– And don’t worry, folks – Mario is in the mix, too. Offering a double dose of the popular plumber-verse, Super Mario 3D Land will be released in November and Mario Kart 7 will be released in December.

– Finally, a new Sonic the Hedgehog game for the 3DS, Sonic Generations, will also hit shelves before the holidays.

With all of these announcements, it’s difficult not to think of this weekend’s price cut as a full-scale relaunch for the struggling system, but it remains to be seen whether the new titles and the “flame red” paint job will help bring the company, well… out of the red.

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