Iwata: ‘No Causal Correlation’ Between Smartphones And Nintendo’s Business

In the wake of Nintendo’s 3DS price drop, many have claimed — including myself — that the 3DS has adversely struggled in the face of the increasing ubiquity of smart phone usage. In Nintendo’s recent financial results briefing Iwata acknowledged those concerns, but claimed there was “no causal correlation” between the two.

“We have repeatedly investigated whether social games, as well as smartphones, are actually affecting our business,” said Iwata. “We got the same results in our latest research that there are no causal correlations.”

He did, however acknowledge, once again, that the low price of smartphone gaming was an issue.

“Naturally, consumers will choose more affordable ones if the video games we provide do not have much more value than those available for smartphones, he continued. “However, no causal correlations have been confirmed because we think there are consumers who acknowledge that the value of what we offer does not equal to that of those available for smartphones and that what we offer holds unique value.”

It’s a tricky situation for Nintendo, who seem keen to preserve the inherent premium value of its gaming experience whilst also attempting to reach broader audiences.

Sometimes you simply can’t have your cake and eat it.


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