A Nintendo representative confirmed to Wired at this week’s New York-based 3DS press event that the ability to browse the web and download digital games on 3DS will come post-launch. Reportedly, the functionality will be added later on in the form of firmware updates, similar to Sony’s strategy for the PSP.

Nintendo plans on populating the 3DS download store — dubbed “eShop” — with a Virtual Console subsection that includes Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles. Additionally, titles from a wide range of third-party developers will be made available, akin to DSiWare and WiiWare.

While the delayed launch puzzles us, it could be taken as a sign that Nintendo wants to spend extra time polishing its digital storefront this time around. In the past, DSiWare and WiiWare have both been under fire from indie developers, citing a lack of promotion and visibility woes. For Nintendo’s sake, hopefully the eventual rollout isn’t too far away.

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