The Nintendo 3DS is becoming to go to handheld for games everywhere these days thanks to a string of hit titles, like Pokemon X/Y, Mario & Luigi: Dream Team and Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon. Now players can also enjoy the latest and greatest TV shows on the 3DS’ 3.5-inch display.

Nintendo announced this morning that Hulu Plus is now available on the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS. The free app has all the features of the Hulu Plus app on the Wii U, but on a decidedly smaller screen for on-the-go viewing wherever there’s a Wi-Fi connection.

Hulu Plus is just the second video streaming platform to hit the Nintendo 3DS. Netflix has been on the handheld since 2011, while other services, like Amazon Instant Video, continue to abstain from the device despite being on the Wii U. That may change soon, however, as the addition of Hulu Plus may signal a push on the part of Nintendo to get more video streaming options on the 3DS.

Why would Nintendo need video streaming options on a handheld that can sell itself on the quality of its games alone? The company makes a big to do in the press release about the launch of the 2DS – the new $130 handheld in the 3DS family. It’s being sold as the cheap way to get kids and non-gamers into the world of Nintendo handhelds, and some parents would obviously question the value of a 2DS over a tablet. With an improved range of multimedia options, parents might be more inclined to buy the 2DS so their kids can have both Hulu Plus and Pokemon.

If you want to know more about Hulu Plus on Nintendo 3DS, check out Hulu’s landing page for it. New subscribers can get a one-month free trial.

[Image: Hulu]