Our pre-emptive condolences to anyone going for them.
GameStop found a few extra systems in the back, while the FCC is teasing everyone in today's Nintendo news.
GameStop Releasing Limited Quantities Of The Majora's Mask New 3DSXL Tomorrow
According to a message posted on an internal GameStop website, all GameStop stores will receive four Majora’s Mask New 3DS XL models for sale tomorrow, in addition to a window of availability on gamestop.com.
The limited edition system sold out in record time when it was first put up for preorder, and according to sources familiar with the matter, four units per store were set aside for exchanges within 30 days of launch.
Our Take: "So I heard that GameStops nationwide will be in flames tomorrow..." - Neal Ronaghan
"I only hope these system find good homes and don’t fall victim to scalpers." - Donald Theriault
"For everyone who couldn't afford it a month ago, GameStop hopes your tax return finally came. I only wish there could have been a little less time between now and the original release, even though GameStop may not have that control. Those who might have lost the race last month have probably already spent their extra dollars elsewhere, giving up the hunt after weeks of hopeless 'Out of Stock' indicators, so I hate that many of these will probably go to scalpers who will make a killing down the road." - Becky Hollada
Images of New 3DS Released By FCC
Documents released by the Federal Communications Commission show that Nintendo did submit the smaller New 3DS model for rating before electing to only release the XL model.
In a filing released on the commission’s website after a six month embargo, the photos show a white New 3DS with the telltale faceplates being submitted for testing, as well as a portion of the bundled user’s guide. The buttons appear to be a little off kilter from what the system normally looks like, but adjusting the hue setting of the photo reveals the expected colored buttons.
The FCC requires any device that transmits on the wireless spectrum in the United States to submit to testing for interference, even if the device is not to be sold in the US.
Our Take: "It’s an interesting oddity, but this doesn’t really do anything to prove or disprove that the regular-sized New 3DS is coming." - Donald Theriault
"Considering this device could very easily be brought to the US, it's no big mystery why the FCC felt they had to test it. I think the only thing that will push Nintendo to really consider bringing the smaller system state-side is demand. So get on that... somehow." - Becky Hollada
3DS System Software Update Brings Home Menu Layout Saving, Stability
Nintendo released firmware version 9.6.0.24U for all 3DS models last night, and in addition to the stability update small features were added.
The chief feature is the ability to save layouts of icons and themes on the home menu – up to eight layouts can be saved. In addition, the update added more categories to the theme shop and updated older model 3DS and 2DS systems to support the upcoming Amiibo adapter.
As well, an Easter egg was added to the browser that was previously Japan exclusive. By tapping out the music from World 1-1 of Super Mario Bros. on the New Tab screen, the words “STAGE SELECT” will appear above the bookmark. Tapping the bookmark will cause a game of Breakout to ensue with the address.
Our Take: "Great, I can instantly de-folder EVERYTHING on my system." - Donald Theriault
1001 Spikes Wii U Patch To Be Submitted Next Week
After several months, Nicalis has confirmed that the off-TV patch for 1001 Spikes will be submitted for approval to Nintendo next week.
Nicalis founder Tyrone Rodriguez tweeted a photo along with the confirmation yesterday evening showing the tricky platformer working exclusively on the Gamepad.
1001 Spikes and the Wii U gamepad work great. More testing and ready to submit next month to NOA. pic.twitter.com/0IALd4aCJc
— Tyrone Rodriguez (@tyronerodriguez) March 24, 2015
Our Take: "Since my purchase was dependent on Off-TV play, I won’t believe this until someone puts video of the update downloading on NWR TV." - Donald Theriault
