Several analysts have spoken about the 3DS and claim that its sales are nothing to be concerned about.

Following the 3DS' launch in Japan during February there has been a number of stories claiming the console to be everything from under-performing to an outright disaster. Gamepro spoke to a number of analysts about the Nintendo 3DS and they seem less concerned about the console's sales figures than most people.

Interpret's Michael Cai noted that comparisons to the DS' sales are unfair because Nintendo is targeting a different demographic. While the DS sold phenomenally, and continues to do so, it has appealed to a broad spectrum of demographics. However, the 3DS has been marketed towards teenage and young adult males according to Mr. Cai:

"We knew that Nintendo was targeting a different audience with the 3DS as part of a conscious effort to go back to core gamers. A lot of the games for the device are targeting the younger male demographic. That's what many in the games industry don't understand. Many people expected Nintendo sales to repeat the DSi story and even added higher expectations."

One of the most well known game industry analysts Michael Pachter also weighed in on the issue. He claims that the software available at present does not justify the high cost of the console, although he expects this to change with upcoming titles such as Mario Kart 3DS, Kid Icarus and Luigi's Mansion 2. Mr. Pachter also believes 10 million units will be sold this year and Nintendo will drop the price of the console when the Sony Vita launches next year, leading to 12 million units sold in 2012.

While Nintendo will be facing increased competition from not only smartphones offering cheap games but also 3D phones that don't require glasses Michael Cai does not believe this is anything for Nintendo to worry about. He doesn't expect "a lot of people rushing out to get 3D phone unless it comes almost free and with no additional premium," although did say that the more 3D devices that are available the better it is from a consumer awareness and marketing stand.

Whatever happens Nintendo will be under a lot of scrutiny. After tremendous success with the DS it is natural some people expected a similar performance from the 3DS but it is early days at the moment. According to Interpret's research 64% of 3DS owners are extremely satisfied with the console, 34% are somewhat satisfied and only 2% aren't satisfied. Nintendo's biggest issue it seems is getting people to purchase the console itself, but hopefully the upcoming software will help.