Following hot on the heels of the Xbox One and Playstation 4, Nintendo have revealed that the ability to pre-load games will be coming to their console, the Wii U.
The functionality is also going to arrive on Nintendo’s handheld console, the 3DS. The feature will be implemented first on Wii U, with the first compatible game being the immensely anticipated Super Smash Bros for Wii U, dropping in November. The 3DS will then get the functionality some time in 2015. Pre-loading allows users to buy games ahead of launch and download them to their console. While the game cannot of course be played until launch comes around, what this means is that the game will be immediately available from the moment the clock ticks over to midnight.
Satoru Iwata, the President of Nintendo, explained that pre-loading was just one of many ways Nintendo is attempting to make its digital business more user-friendly. Nintendo’s pre-load service will also be available for games bought on the eShop, as well as download cards available in stores.
Originally published November 3, 2014. Updated April 13, 2018.
