3DS In 2013: 16 Million Games, 11.5 Consoles Sold

After a disquieting silence over the holidays, Nintendo has sent an exceedingly upbeat press release on the 3DS’ year, starting with 16 million games and 11.5 million 3DS consoles sold for 2013.

This number includes digitally sold games, as well as retail and bundled games, and represents an increase of 45 percent over the previous year. Meanwhile, the 3DS family of consoles includes 3DS, 3DS XL and 2DS. On the side, UK press also notes it was the bestselling console in their region.

Nintendo also boasted of having seven games in the console that boasted of Metacritic scores of 85 and above. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds and Fire Emblem Awakening each have scores above 90. In NoA EVP of Sales and Marketing Scott Moffitt’s words, “Nintendo 3DS is a powerhouse with games and experiences that appeal to all kinds of players.”

Nintendo also took the opportunity to bring up upcoming games for the system, including a new announcement: Disney Magical World, known as Disney Magic Castle in Japan, allows you to interact with Disney characters in Disney themed worlds, in a world reminiscent of Animal Crossing. The game will be coming April 11, 2014.

Previously announced and also on the way are Bravely Default on February 7, Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy on February 28, and Yoshi’s New Island on March 14.

Of course, the Wii U is conspicuous in its absence in this press release, but we can reasonably expect Nintendo to point out at this point that 3DS has been more than enough of a success this 2013 that they do not have to worry about their financial status. In truth, the 3DS probably propped up the industry's numbers for most of the year. It really won’t be that long before we get all the facts straight on Nintendo’s financial performance through the holidays, and for the year, with the fiscal year of Luigi coming up this March.

Image is from Disney Magic Castle.