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Nintendo digital game downloads can now be bought through Amazon
It has taken them quite a while, but it looks like Nintendo Co. Ltd. is finally learning how this internet thing works. Today the Japanese game company launched a new digital storefront on Amazon.com that will allow users to purchase and download a small selection of Nintendo games for Wii, Wii U, and 3DS.
Using the new storefront seems surprisingly straightforward compared to Nintendo’s usual complicated online systems. After buying one of the eligible games through the Amazon site, you will be given a link to a page that will ask for your Nintendo Network login. Once you are signed in to your Nintendo account, you simply click the “Redeem” button and the game will be automatically downloaded to your Nintendo console or handheld.
The storefront appears to include some of the most popular games currently available for Nintendo devices, including Splatoon, Mario Kart 8, Super Smash Bros Wii U, and the soon to be released Mario Maker. Nintendo’s new Amazon page also includes several classics available for virtual console, including Super Mario Bros 3 and Mario Kart 64.
Is Nintendo changing with the times?
Nintendo’s new storefront on Amazon may not seem like such a big deal. After all, the online retailer already offers digital download codes for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
However, Nintendo is notoriously slow moving when it comes to digital trends compared to some of its competitors, with a long history of convoluted online multiplayer systems and poorly supported digital downloads. After the disappointing launch of the Wii U and the ongoing slow release cycle of major game releases, things were starting to look a bit grim for the company, especially after the sudden loss of its long-time president, Satoru Iwata, earlier this year.
But things are now looking up for Nintendo. In June, the company posted its highest first quarter earnings in three years, thanks largely to the hit game Splatoon, a new IP that led to improved Wii U sales, as well as the stellar success of its toys-to-life Amiibo figures.
The company is also expected to release its first ever mobile games soon, with five titles said to be releasing within the next two years.
Photo by FaruSantos
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