The popular R4 flashcard has taken a hit in the UK ever since Nintendo and Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association (ELSPA) has taken notice at the homebrew platform.

For those who aren't familiar about the R4, it is one of the more well-known homebrew platforms that can also be used to run back ups of Nintendo DS games.

Online retailer SimplyGames.com have been called on regarding its sale of R4 cards, and has taken off the flashcard from its shelves since then. However, some online stores apparently still have the R4 in stock. "Other retailers should follow suit, as it will only advocate the use of these products to the consumer," SimplyGames executive Neil Muspratt said.

Other UK-based online retailers, like Play.com have chimed in concerning the possibility of piracy on the R4. "We should make it as difficult as possible for these items to get into public hands," said Gian Luzio of Play.com.

Apparently the most hard-hit among the gaming industry are the independent gaming studios who develop Nintendo DS titles. Independent game developer Joypads, in particular, have noticed quite a slowdown on the sales of their DS titles ever since the R4 became available in the market.

It's been quite a while since the R4 entered the ELSPA's and Nintendo's sights. Will this mean that the homebrew scene in the UK will eventually suffer? After all, there's a chance that both ELSPA and Nintendo will shift their attention towards other DS flashcard manufacturers.

More details as they come along.

---

Related articles:

• ELSPA working closely with Nintendo against R4
• ELSPA considering legal action for flashcart retailers