Quote:Nintendo has developed different versions of Nintendo 3DS hardware to take into account different languages, age rating requirements and parental control functionality as well as to ensure compliance with local laws in each region. Nintendo 3DS also offers network services specifically tailored for each region.

Sounds like it'll cost more money and a waste of time. And wee know Nintendo are in the business for the money these days.

Quote:Additionally wee want to ensure the best possible gaming experience for our users and there is the possibility that Nintendo 3DS software sold in one region will not function properly when running on Nintendo 3DS hardware sold in another.

And don't you think people who know when they're receiving the best experience (i.e, people who play games as a regular hobby) know that this is a waste of time.

Quote:Nintendo has confirmed reports that all 3DS games will be region-locked.

When asked to explain the decision at today's 3DS event in Amsterdam, Nintendo UK boss David Yarnton told Eurogamer it was all down to varying regional content.

"There are a number of different factors that come into it," he explained. "Part of it is, when you're looking at the software and the different areas, what additional features are included that may not necessarily be available in other territories.

"For example, wee might have one territory where there's downloadable content that's not necessarily either suitable or wee don't have the means to do it in another territory. So therefore it may not be compatible.

So, I'm developing a new system from my own resources however, I cannot include the software in other countries because it's not available. I understand the content control part as an excuse though, what's stopping them from releasing it from in other countries? Different content control in different regions? bah...

Quote:"The other thing is, if wee look at it at on a regional basis, wee have to be very conscious of – the customer may not really care about this, but different territories have different ratings. Wee're very conscious of making sure wee tow the line as far as government goes there. In Europe wee've got PEGI. In Australia there's a different rating. America's got a different rating. Japan's a different rating.

Why is it a big deal? Why do they make it seem like such a high priority?

Quote:"DVDs are also region locked. It's nothing new. I know people would love to sample the box of chocolates from everywhere, but at this stage... As time goes on, who knows what's going to happen."

What ZB said. Also as time goes on, who knows what's going to happen. Why worry about the far future instead of the present and near future. And once again, region locking is not going to stop piracy (infact, it might encourage it.)