The subject of how the 3D “hook” of the Nintendo 3DS will affect game development on the platform has been discussed before. Judging by games released so far, it appears that games that are on the 3DS will generally be compatible with the 3D effect. However, we’ve also seen games — rare as they may be — such as AQ Interactive’s Cubic Ninja, that are meant to be played with the 3D effect turned off.
However, third-party developers won’t be the only ones designing non-3D games for the 3DS; Nintendo will do so, too, according to company president, Satoru Iwata.
Speaking to investors on the subject of the 3DS’ appeal, Iwata stated that 3D is but ones of the features of the 3DS, and that Nintendo intend to develop certain games that pass on 3D to capitalize on other features instead. “I think there could be a Nintendo 3DS software title which does not use the 3D feature at all, and I believe Nintendo will develop such software,” he shared.
“Instead, other features of the Nintendo 3DS should be focused on. It might be a communication feature, or other functions (such as the gyro sensor or the motion sensor). The important thing is that each respective software title has its own characteristics, and appeals to the consumers in a way that fits the software. So I am not worried in a way like, ‘The value of the Nintendo 3DS will decrease when the novelty of 3D wears off.’”
