Amazon launches Nintendo Digital Downloads page

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Nintendo Wii U and 3DS gamers in the US now have a new option when it comes to paying for digital game downloads: Amazon.com The internet shopping giant has just launched a digital download store dedicated to Nintendo's platforms, but it's much better than paying for a game, getting a redeemable code via email, and then entering it on a console's eShop. Users can make their purchase on Amazon, check-out, and then click on a link to the Nintendo Network that will automatically register the content as purchased for their system.

Technically there's no difference in purchasing games on Amazon, as the download still comes directly from Nintendo, but there are a couple of small benefits. For one, users can skip having to browse and pay on Nintendo's eShop, which can sometimes be slow and cumbersome. A keyboard and mouse will always be faster when someone just wants to pay and start their download.

The other thing is that it could open the door for Amazon to have the occasional sale or deal on games. Currently titles are the same price on both the eShop and on Amazon; Wii U games Splatoon and Mario Kart 8 are each $59.99 from either shop. It's also handy to be able to apply Amazon gift cards or store credit directly to a Nintendo digital purchase.

There are currently 61 games for the Wii U and 3DS available on the Amazon page, including Super Mario 3D World, Bravely Default, Super Smash Bros. (both Wii U and 3DS versions), along with a number of classic titles for the Virtual Console, including Donkey Kong Land, Super Metroid, Yoshi's Island, and Paper Mario.

SOURCE Amazon