Nintendo's President Satoru Iwata has claimed that Nintendo hopes that the 3DS will eclipse the sales of the DS.

Even though the 3DS was only released a few days ago in Japan Nintendo has already set a big target for themselves - to surpass the sales of the DS. In an interview with Asahi Shimbun newspaper, translated by Andriasang, Mr. Iwata says that the company are looking to make the 3DS more successful than the DS, which has sold 140 million units worldwide and has been used by over 300 million people.

The 3DS launch was unusual as it did not feature a key Nintendo franchise when it was released. Usually a new Nintendo console comes with a new Mario title, except the Wii which was released with The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. However, Nintendo are working on a Mario title that will be "packed with the kinds of surprises and enjoyment that the 3DS can deliver." Satoru Iwata states that Nintendo are experimenting with gameplay whereby Mario will run toward the screen and strike blocks that are floating in the air.

Satoru Iwata also discussed the competition Nintendo now face within the handheld market. Speaking of Sony's newly announced NGP console he noted that the monthly 3G usage fees would probably deter many users. In regards to Apple, a company that has unexpectedly become competition due to the success of the iPhone, Mr. Iwata states, "we're at a period where it will be difficult to keep the value of our content if we are unable to offer experiences that can't be had on Smartphones."