Nintendo Co.'s president predicted a "rocket start" to U.S. sales of the 3DS hand-held game machine, boosted by the device's high-definition graphics and titles showcasing its features.

"There will be not only our own software, but also third-party titles, which have the photo-realism that will satisfy Western gamers," Satoru Iwata said in a recent interview. "We expect the 3DS to get off to a rocket start, like the Wii's debut."

The 3DS will sell for $250 (¥20,500) in the U.S., where it will debut March 27, Nintendo said Wednesday in a statement. Sales in Europe are scheduled to begin March 25. The Japan debut is set for Feb. 26.