The Nintendo 3DS finally received the long-delayed eShop and Internet browser just after midnight (EST) on Tuesday following a minor last-minute delay that left early adopters chomping at the bit.
The major system update took approximately six minutes to complete, though that time may have been artificially extended by who knows how many others attempting to do the very same. Some error messages and "undergoing maintenance" notices sullied the event, but after a few tries we were able to browse the eShop, try out the Internet browser, download two freebies and fiddle with several other new options.
The eShop itself is populated by a single smiling orange shopping bag who is only too eager to help you start buying games, but upon first entering the online store you're given the option to link to your Club Nintendo website account. Doing so earns you coins that could eventually be traded in for free content.
Speaking of free content, Nintendo is offering two pieces of it right out of the gate. The first is a 3D version of the seminal Nintendo Entertainment System title, Excitebike. The other, called Pokedex 3D, lets gamers gawk at the popular fighting monsters in (you guessed it) 3D. Both are free until July 7th.
Several tabs comprise the eShop. Some are dedicated to helping gamers browse specific genres, such as puzzle and card games; others showcase staff picks, DSi Ware titles and a "Rate" option which allows players to share their thoughts on played games.
The Internet browser performs well enough, utilizing both screens for viewing. Web pages can be enlarged or shrunk at the tap of a button. The lack of YouTube support is both noticeable and unfortunate. It could be added in a subsequent update, however.
One other feature which was announced at this year's Game Developer's Conference but yet to be activated is Netflix support. The ability to display videos in 3D is one the portable has already proven it can do; the original software update for the system shortly after it launched added a novel 3D music video by rock group, OK GO.
Netflix is likely next on Nintendo's "3DS to-do" list (a tentative summer launch was mentioned by Reggie File-Aime, Nintendo of America's CEO), though it's unclear how much (if any) 3D movie content will be offered through it. Currently, the online streaming giant lacks 3D content.
Let us know what you think of the new 3DS features in the comment section.
