During a financial results briefing Q&A, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata was once again asked to touch upon the subject of the company’s devices being region locked. Below are the question and response Iwata provided.
When you were asked if you would lift the region locks at the Financial Results Briefing six months ago, you answered that you would take it into consideration. Please explain the current situation.
Iwata: My understanding is that it is not realistic on the existing video game systems because unlocking them after they are already on the market poses a number of hurdles. On the other hand, regarding NX, we understand that many consumers hold such opinions and such suggestions exist in the market, and although we have nothing concrete at the moment, we are internally analyzing what hurdles exist to lifting region locks. That is the situation right now. We acknowledge your request, and I personally want to give it positive consideration.
So, while Nintendo aren’t 100% confirming that their upcoming NX console will be region-free, they’re open to the idea and are giving it serious consideration. Unfortunately, it appears the region locks on 3DS and Wii U will remain.
