On January 19th, Nintendo is hosting an event in New York City that will finally detail for the world the release plans for the much anticipated 3DS handheld console. While you shouldn't expect to hear anything about a firm price point or release date before then, there is at least one retailer that is willing to start taking your money now to secure one when they do become available. Yes ladies and gentlemen, GameStop outlets across the country are now taking pre-orders for the 3DS.

There is some discrepancy as to how much money you'll need to put down in order to lock yourself in for a 3DS on release day. Some stores (including three I was able to call) saying $50, while others are claiming to only require half as much at $25. If the particular store you call claims not to be taking the orders yet, tell them to enter the SKU number "020132", and that'll take care of it.

While I'm nearly certain that I'll be getting a 3DS, I don't know that I need to have one as soon as they're made available. Granted, it's likely that the first batch of them are going to sell out, and much like when the Wii was first launched, will be out of stock for quite some time. Without knowing a firm price point, release date, or catalog of release date games, I'm remiss to place the order. But hey, that's just me. You may be different, and may want to get the 3DS at a midnight launch. Either way, the hype machine is gearing up in earnest.