The Nintendo 3DS will feature region locking, preventing gamers from importing games - something which was possible on previous Nintendo handhelds.

Confirmation of the region restrictions came via an email from Nintendo of Japan support (translated by a NeoGAF member).

The Nintendo 3DS is expected to launch in Europe this March, with firm launch plans set to be revealed at a press event on January 19.

Importing games for Nintendo's handhelds has been happening since the days of the Game Boy, but more recently with the DSi range the platform holder hinted at a region locked future - DSi specific software carried region coding.

It's no great surprise then that the 3DS features the same restrictions, but nevertheless will be a big disappointment to gamers who've become accustomed to getting hold of new releases earlier through buying from Japan and America.