French gaming site 01Net has been around the block a few times. They've correctly broken the specs for both the Wii U and the PlayStation Vita in the past, so it stands to reason that they might have something on good authority when they say there's a new Nintendo 3DS model coming down the pipeline.
This rumor comes on the heels of an announcement from Nintendo that they'll be hosting an event pre-Tokyo Game Show on September 13th. In 2005, Nintendo revealed the Wii Remote controller for the Wii at Tokyo Game Show, despite not having a booth there.
The new 3DS model reportedly "radically tones down" the handheld's 3D feature, possibly even to the point of a total rebranding for Nintendo's new handheld. These reports suggest that the price-cut was a means to clear excess 3DS stock from retailer shelves ahead of the announcement.
Frankly, I don't have a clue how they could "tone down" the 3D feature, seeing as you can just turn the effect off at your leisure. Will a redesigned 3DS drop the 3D altogether, despite so many 3D games in development by Nintendo and third party publishers?
To add to the oddity at hand, Nintendo is reportedly developing a detachable second analog stick for the current 3DS, priced at "about $10." What could Nintendo possibly be planning? We'll be sure to bring you every detail leading up to and throughout the Tokyo Game Show.
