Nintendo and Best Buy have a new WiFi way to deliver downloadable content for the 3DS, although technically a cross-promotional arrangement like this was implemented previously with GameStop stores for an earlier handheld device.
Through its collaboration with Best Buy, Nintendo will give Nintendo 3DS owners customized, automatic wireless access at 1,000 Best Buy store locations nationwide beginning June 7. This service will provide gamers a variety of content via the system’s built-in Wi-Fi functionality, including the new SpotPass feature. The Best Buy service will also include exclusive offers as well as additional entertainment content such as gaming extras and movie trailers.
Nintendo has previously dabbled in retail content partnerships such as this, including one with GameStop that provided exclusive downloads for the original DS so owners could test the system’s WiFi functionality. That same spirit of “hardware exploration” appears intact in today’s announcement.
“We want our customers to fully tap into the potential of their Nintendo 3DS device, so we’re pleased to offer free access to special Wi-Fi and SpotPass content in-store,” said Chris Homeister, senior vice president of entertainment for Best Buy.
The Nintendo 3DS, which lets people see 3D visuals without the need for special glasses, launched on March 27 of this year.