Reggie Explains the Reasoning Behind the New 2DS XL

I'm sorry but this was really unneeded.

Uhm, just drop the price of the 3DS XL... if a child doesn't need a feature they don't have to use it.

"We were worried the Switch would perform like the Wii U, so here's another 3DS" is what he meant to say.

Yea it's a nice spin. Not necessary at all. If they get sales good on them. A price cut on the 3ds would have done at least as much without making a new Sku.

@DanteSolablood But then why pay for the feature?

I think the desing of New 2DS XL is way much better than New 3DS XL, i´d like if they release a New 3DS XL with that desing.

Something I wanted long ago.
Something I don't need.

Getting it anyway...

@PanurgeJr They're not, the price that it costs Nintendo to make the 2DS XL won't be that different from the 3DS XL, the price difference is likely artificial on Nintendo's end. They could just drop the price, it'll happen eventually once the Switch is in more hands anyway.

Even if that's not the case, the kids playing the 2DS XL will likely grow & might want to try some of those features... oh dear, the 2DS XL doesn't have them. You can just ignore features if you have them... you can't add them on later if you don't.

I've never played a 3DS outside of a handful of GameStop and Target demo units (let alone owned one).

I'm buying the New 2DS XL. The Switch can go to hell, I have an XB1.

I want New 2DS XL, as long there is White color with nice secondary color such as Turquoise / Indigo / Silver. Pure White all is the Best.

@Frosty_09 What does a Cadillac stand for in the US? The only thing a Cadillac brings to my UK brain is Ecto One & an old man/Elvis' car.

"...the Cadillac of gaming."
Oh Reggie! How I love you!
It would be awesome to pick one up, and doubly awesome if there's a system exploit so I can run GBA and SNES injects on that large screen. 😋

There already was something in between the 2DS and New 3DS, it's called the 3DS.

@gatorboi352
What ?!
Switch is NOT a Failure !!
How dare you said Switch must go to hell ?!

@Anti-Matter Just ignore him, he calls the Switch a failure but plays an XB1, I think that says all you need to know about the quality of judgement involved in his comment.

Reggie calling the New 3DS XL the "Cadillac of handheld gaming" is probably the funniest thing he has done since saying "My body is ready" while standing on the Wii Fit Balance Board at E3 2007.

@Frosty_09 Lol, no problem! I just consider myself quite a verbose individual & had never heard the term used in that way. Personally I love the 3DS & even moved from the older version to an XL.

I'm annoyed that they always seem to make revisions that would be much appreciated on the older models even when they are 'superior'. For instance I'd love to have the game card cover on my new 3DS xl and the camera placement for the front 2 cameras makes so much more sense. Honestly I'm tempted to give my new 3DS XL to my nephew and buy a new 2DS XL or at least trade it in towards one. The only real gripe I have with it is the hinge seems crappier.

Still waiting for that regular sized New 3DS here in the West...

So how many people were saying 'Boy, I wish there was something in-between.' exactly if there's already a 2DS that, imo at least, should be enough for this age group? Especially since older 3DS models, where you can restrict the use of 3D, are probably cheaper than what Nintendo's asking for with the New 2DS.

Ah well, at least it's a good looking piece of hardware.

Edit: Just went on Amazon. The 2DS XL is 170€ here in Germany. I could have a new New 3DS XL for 20€ more. 20€ more. Great job, Nintendo, really justified this product.

Isnt the switch the cadillac though?

a Cadillac? I don't even know what a Cadillac looks like. (o_O )
but... ok.
If this had come out 2-3 years ago I would have bought it as my first choice (I barely use the 3D on my 3DS but I don't like how clunky the 2DS looks like).

@GoldenGamer88 Yeah, but then you don't get the improved processor, access to games exclusive to the New models, improved viewing angle, built-in second C-stick, or built-in amiibo functionality.

@BulbasaurusRex Yeah, see the edit to my original comment. The New 3DS XL is just 20€ more, at least here in Germany.

@BulbasaurusRex You don't get the improved viewing angles on the 2DS XL either, that only works for 3D.

The c stick and bew processor are only utilised by xenoblade chronicles... not a selling point to me.

just googled Cadillac. lol. yeah, ok, whatever you say Reggie. lol.

Yes, that's right, the New 3DS XL is the Cadillac of handheld gaming. Not the brand new machine that costs 50% more.
I just don't see the market here. Sure, there'll be a few individual cases where this will appeal, but it's nothing substantial.

Calling the New 3DS a cadillac is hilarious!

I don't think the New 2DS XL (ugh, I hate the name though) is a bad idea, it's just arriving too late. It should have been a November 2016 product. I do think it's wise to continue to focus on the 3DS even with the Switch's success, contrary to the popular opinion. Just not sure if this is the right time for another 3DS iteration.

Well it is nice to give people choices and I thought the 2ds looked horrible, so this gives a cheap alternative to people. A range of products ensures there is something for everyone. I don't like the design myself...but if I did it would be a better investment for me (if I hadn't already bought 6 3ds systems) as I can't use the 3d.

@bolt05 Switch is tesla. Also Nintendo is firmly insisting it is a portable home console, which is a different focus than what handheld gaming has been up till now. Not saying his choice of words was the best, but they work for his age group and what he is saying is that n3ds xl is the most full featured dedicated handheld Nintendo offers and they are trying to create a range. Keeping with his car analogy, no different than you can buy a Toyota corolla or a GT 86...still made by the same company, still sedan (sports) class cars but different price points and features.

Edit: Yay typos.

As others have mentioned, they could have just cut the price on the New 3DS XL.
I'm getting one either way, a Japanese one, as I have a bunch of Japanese games and my regular 3DS that I'm using for that just isn't cutting it.
This just seems more in line with Nintendo distancing themselves from 3D. A lot of titles lately haven't used the feature at all or very little. I mean, the Pokémon games didn't have it for more than a single mini-game-ish mode in the last version, and that sold a gajillion copies anyway.
If this is more cost-efficient than cutting the price on the New 3DS XL, then I understand their reasoning. People just don't care about 3D any longer, to my dismay.

I actually really liked the 2DS because I have big hands and the clamshell designs are a little cramped. The button placement of the 2DS was perfect for me. The New 2DS XL being clamshell design kinds ruines it for me. Also seems to negate teh idea of what teh 2DS was meant to be.. Ah well.

@Frosty_09 Perfect! Haha.

Its still expensive. Its funny that no one asks for 3d (without grlasses) on Switch. No one asks for second screen on Switch either. They were both mostly gimmicks. PS Vita was a failure but i would prefer a 3ds with Vita resolution/gpu/cpu and no 3d effect. I don't hate Persona Q but graphics suck compared to Persona 4

It's needed because the cheaper version (normal 2ds) is a popular choice, and since it's using the old hardware, it's holding back the possible games.

This is to give it a little extra boost before the Switch takes over.

We may complain about the 3DS revisions,
But at least Nintendo supports their handheld systems unlike how Sony does.

Already said it before, but HELL YES I'm buying this. Those who think this is useless either don't have or don't see the need for what is basically a budget New 3DS XL.

@DanteSolablood You forgot the Bluesmobile!

But yeah, the comparison falls a bit flat, the 3DS is a nice console with some awesome games, but a "cadillac" would have had way better screen resolution, at the very least...

@DanteSolablood You forgot the Bluesmobile!

But yeah, the comparison falls a bit flat, the 3DS is a nice console with some awesome games, but a "cadillac" would have had way better screen resolution, at the very least...

This makes a lot of sense from Nintendo.

Right now they are "in" and "exiting" again, after the great launch of the Switch.

Casual people just got aware of Nintendo again, after the Switch release, and Mario / Pokemon Go for smartphones.

The Switch is still rather expensive, and not everyone can afford it. It's not a dedicated handheld either, so it isn't for everyone.

The 3DS / 2DS still sells very well, it's cheap, and has a much larger game catalogue. It also has Pokemon.

So it will always makes sense to release a brand new model, while demand for everything Nintendo is on a heigh. It will simply boost sales even more, and convince people who where considering investing in an old product line.

It's a sign from Nintendo, that they still support 3DS / 2DS after the Switch came out. I don't think, that this will hurt Switch sales at all. The two products are so different, and target very different audience's.

What about the New Nintendo 3DS?

I thought about the 4-6 year old target audience he talked about and thought, ok that makes sense. Then i realized that if i bought my four year old one of these instead of a switch, he would probably hit me over the head with it.
Dear Reggie: my four year old is almost as good as me at splatoon, he cant really read so I’m still trying to figure out how hes got so dam far in BOTW, don’t underestimate the kids

I am tempted actually. My new 3DS that is out of warranty is giving me issues (one of the shoulder buttons stopper working) and since it will cost $90 to get repaired I may just go that route. Provided the SNES virtual console will work on it of course...

@retribution
Still, the 3DS / 2DS has a lot going on for it. A huge catalogue of cheap and great games.

Of course the Switch is more popular right now, but that doesn't mean it is the right choice for everyone. It's expensive and simply lacks content these early days.

So, if you're never had a 3DS / 2DS, and maybe wants a more portable experience, these are still a better and way cheaper solution for your Nintendo gaming.

I feel like the standard sized New 3DS would be just as viable as an "in-between", but apparently this model was determined as a necessary worldwide thing. I like it, but I'd rather not have to concern myself with protecting my N3DS from damage or significant wear, since it would be difficult and expensive to replace...

@KidRad : It's really sad because I still love 3D on the 3DS, and as a film graduate, I love seeing authentic 3D films (unfortunately, more and more of what is being produced by Hollywood are post-production conversions, and I think that this has adversely affected public enthusiasm for 3D as most people aren't aware of the difference between real and fake 3D and they end up tarring them all with the same brush).

The 2DS XL is such a pretty piece of hardware, but I can't bring myself to forfeit 3D for it. The top screen looks like an old iPhone, and I'm really digging the new hinge.

Reggie, you never fail to disappoint.

@Equinox

Exactly. And the GB micro also came out after the DS was released.

Nintendo has always had a huge range of products, targeting every possible customer from budget to premium.

A sale in the budget line is better than no sale at all. And right now there is still huge demand for a 3DS / 2DS. They are also very cheap to produce, and are surely more profitable per unit than the Switch right now.

Nintendo would be stupid not to cash in on their legacy products, while demand is still high.

I don't believe a word of it. They are simply trying to sell more units, and sacrificing 3D is the easiest way to reduce the price and retain profit margin.

"And then we heard from consumers, 'Boy, I wish there was something in between.'"

Alright, fess up. Who are the wise guys who told Nintendo they needed something in between? I am not impressed - you stabbed the rest of us in the back with that move.

This new 2ds XL is pretty cool! - I mean - seriously! The Dragon quest Special edition is THE best looking handheld console ever!
In addition to that - 2ds sells well - so now the time is right to give consumers a choice to upgrade - was it ever fair that 2ds didn't play New 3ds games? Now it has a c-stick too! and it's a clamshell design - it's all good ! Plus the 3ds library of games is Huge and Quality!
It also sends a message that 3ds is being supported -
Next I would expect a 3DS with HD upscaling on all old 3ds games

No, Reggie, you absolutely do NOT get to bemoan the lack of a SKU in-between the 2DS and the New 3DS XL, not after shrugging and saying "Nah, we don't want your money" when the New 3DS was sitting there for over a year waiting for a release in your market, and only your market, that would never properly come.

You can take this New 2DS XL, Reggie, and shove it, if that's your reasoning.

@samuelvictor Who knows? It's not out there, it will be out in July.

This 2DS redesign does look very nice. The top screen almost looks smartphone-esque in the pictures, though I'm sure it probably won't compare in reality. I'm happy with my New 3DS XL. The improved 3D eye tracking is easily the best feature of it, I can actually play games in 3D all the time now, though I still have the dial just below halfway.

I'm tempted to get one to be honest. I've wanted a "New" 3DS XL for ages but it's pricey. If this New 2DS XL works out a fair bit cheaper in the UK that'd be great. I have a Switch so I'm fine on that front.

Reggie: "My Cadillac is ready!"

Love the design, but isn't this just another Wii Mini? Sounds like a good idea, but ultimately way too late in the systems lifespan

@cfgk24
I still have no idea how to use C-Button properly. It looks stuck / motionless on my New 3DS XL.
And I don't feel the usage of C-Button.
Anyway, what 3DS games that can use C-Button ?

@Bunkerneath
Better late than never.

@samuelvictor From what I've understood, the only difference is no 3D, other than that, you do have the other benefits that the New 3DS also has: C-stick, 4 shoulder buttons and a better processor and more memory than the original 3DS.

And that is also the difference between this and the old 2DS. I see people on here mentioning that you could just buy the old version, but it doesn't have the extras that the New 2DS has. And it doesn't have a clam shell design, which in my opinion is already a massive improvement over the "slate" design.

@Bunkerneath No, it's not because the Wii Mini was a successor with less features than the original console, the New 2DS actually has quite a few improvements over the original, so more features, and its not smaller either, just foldable...

It's a pointless release really , Nintendo should have just dropped the price on the current range instead of developing a new product waste of money .

@BulbasaurusRex "The West" already got the regular New 3DS.

@gatorboi352 are you enjoying all those groundbreaking titles PS4 and Switch owners have been playing since January?😂

I jest: I have an X1 myself and love it to bits because I can still play all my old 360 downloads on it and Forza Horizon 3 is the best racing game ever made (sorry MK fans).

But you've got to admit 2017 currently belongs to Sony and Nintendo. I get the feeling Microsoft are holding their cards for the Scorpio launch.

Reggie said:

2DS is for 4 - 6 years old kid
New 2DS XL is for 7 - 12 years old kid
3DS is for dumb early adopter
3DS XL is for dumb early adopter who's being fooled twice
New 3DS is for 13 - 17 years old kid
New 3DS XL is for 18 - 100 years old kid
Switch is for dumb early adopter

Lol they were asking for the new non xl model. Lmao

I think they went a bit over the top with the 2DS when they were trying to reduce the price... making it a solid block without the hinge just made it bulkier and left the screens exposed, reducing it's portability, and therefore it's appeal to older users (causing it to be considered more of a child's model rather than a budget model)... so it seems like they've just fixed that mistake.

This is just bringing up the old 2DS to the New spec. I don't see why there's anything controversial about that at all.

The Switch is way more expensive, and not particularly great for portability or for multiple devices in a household.

It looks quite nice, to me, and I tend to switch the 3D off on my N3DS, so maybe it would be worth, erm, sidegrading. How accessible is the SD card?

Edit: OK, I just looked at the pictures from the announcement. The SD slot is actually accessible without a screwdriver, which is a nice upgrade over the N3DS. It looks like it closes better, and is probably more comfortable to hold than the N3DS XL, thanks to that game cover. I like it a lot. If Nintendo didn't insist on tying my account to one device, I'd probably get one in addition to my N3DS XL.

I think the New 2DS is absolutely beautiful. My only issue is I've already got a 3DS, 3DS XL, New 3DS and New 3DS XL... and I've moved on to my Switch.

In regards to its place in the market... yeah it's a strange one. I was thinking the 3DS line is fairly saturated enough as it is... but, what the hey. One more won't hurt. I do think that a price drop on all 3DS systems would probably be what the people wanted at this point, not a new model.

That DQ model is gorgeous though.

i'll get one, the 3D gives me a headache so i never use it and i want to upgrade to a XL so this is perfect for me

There has to be a meme somewhere in that comment.

@NewAdvent But which one can your parents afford?

Good - 2ds has now clamshell factor
Bad - Reggie is such a storyteller and liar in American way

As @PlayerOne put it best, this is a more affordable New 3DS and, coupled with the clamshell design, it's a perfect fit for my girlfriend who, as I mentioned elsewhere, has a blind eye and therefore sadly lacks depth perception.

While this doesn't change that it's a very niche scenario, it can also be easily argued that there's really nothing wrong with said niche. If anything, this is just the past financial year of Nintendo being put to good use.

@Frosty_09 Ah, so it's like saying (in the UK) that it's the Rolls Royce of handheld gaming...

It's a great idea, but it came along too late for me, personally. If this was 2016 I'd have snapped it up for sure. Still, I don't think I'm the target market for something like this, it's great for young kids though.

"Boy, I wish there was something in between."

Sure, Reggie, that's what consumers were saying--not!

Here's what I would have liked: Both the 2DS and 3DS models to be even cheaper.

There is pretty much zero point in paying somewhere between £100-£150 in the UK for this "in between" system when the regular 2DS is nearly half the price but does pretty much the same stuff (and actually looks a bit better imo).

All you really did was convolute things a little bit more.

@Frosty_09 yeah, it's more of a Toyota Corolla. Reliable but nothing fancy.

@RainbowGazelle What do you mean? Last I checked, the regular New 3DS was Japan exclusive. We only have New 3DS XLs over here. If I'm ever going to upgrade, I want the model that has proper resolution and fits my normal-sized grip accessory.

do i need it should I have another gaming device No.
Will I end up buying it probably lol

Really? I'm not really sure of this. The Switch just came out and only people like me are lucky to have it. Other people are scrambling to get it. Not really sure why they will do this as soon as the switch comes out, switch sales might drop. Maybe it's for the unlucky people?

@Anti-Matter It's great to use it in Monster hunter

Hey Reggie, remember the normal New 3DS? The one you didn't sell in America? That's an "in-between model"!

@Blazinglegend16

i don't see why you would consider them as competitors, very different hardware, i don't think that someone who can't get a switch will settle on a 2ds or viceversa for that matter

Pokémon Stars for Switch and the NEW 3ds/2ds family.

I have a very strong feeling that the new 2ds xl is only meant for a new pokémon game releasing this holiday. 1. Pokémon doesn't have 3D and 2. Sun and Moon is really struggeling on the old hardware. So they will problaby make it exclusive to the 'new' hardware.

I wonder if they did this from a psychological point of view to show that they are not droping the 3DS for the Switch.

If they drop the price on the new Nintendo 3DS XL people will think that it's getting phased out, like how some people are thinking now. If they release a new model, it looked like they're continuing support.

Granted it was similar with the Gameboy micro and the original Nintendo DS, so who knows.

Wasn't the original 3DS a suitable "in-between" choice?

ITT Outrage Culture

@BulbasaurusRex In Europe, the regular New 3DS was released at the same time as the New 3DS XL. Didn't NA get a regular New 3DS with Animal Crossing cover plates?

@Gridatttack What games are you referring to? I think there are around 3-6 games that are exclusive to the "new" 3DS since it was released. Even though the 2DS is popular, I'm not sure this iteration was needed. I believe that the 2DS is popular because it cost around $80 and for a few people it feels better in their hands. Recently Nintendo made a statement that they needed to end the production of the NES Classic so that they could better manage their resources. Does it make sense to produce this product then or continue to produce the crazily popular NES Classic or the brand new crazily popular Switch? I don't believe the "New" 2DS will sell the way they hope but maybe I'm wrong...and then good for Nintendo.

Gonna get it, have normal 2ds but still can't say no to this!

@Shikinouta Yeah, the cadillac of handheld gaming is the switch!

@Yhdekskymmenen They don't sell it anymore

If I didn't upgrade to the New 3DS XL last year, I would buy this.

The reasoning behind it was pretty clear to me from the start. They introduced the original 2DS because there was a market for a less-expensive version more suitable for children. Now they're likely looking to phase out the non-"new" 3DS line, so it makes sense to make a "new" 2DS to replace it as long as the systems are still selling. I do agree it's probably overpriced, but that doesn't change the fact that there's a market for it. Those suggesting they should have just lowered the price of the New 3DS XL are missing the point-- it's meant to cater to a different audience.

@Anti-Matter monster hunter. It doesn't actually move, try sliding your finger firmly across it.

Not interested myself but I feel some will be. Some of you say there's no demand but I remember people on forums begrudging "having to pay for 3D which I won't use" in regards to the 3DS and then again at the 2DS release that it wasn't a clamshell.

All of the non-3D features of the New 3DSXL and premuim size, in a clamshell case with a discount doesn't seem too bad.

@dkxcalibur You're forgetting about the SNES Virtual Console, those all require the "New" hardware (and that's a relatively new edition so it's going to only grow). Besides, it's easier for them moving on to only make the "New" hardware from this point on, just as it made sense for them to only make Wii Remote Pluses towards the end.

@YoshiPilot Well, in this particular example, I would assume Reggie was specifically thinking of the 3DS system line when he made the Cadillac comment.

Unfortunately i have too many 3ds variations to care about this 1

@thatawesomedude You may bring up some good points but let me ask you a question. Did you want a NES Classic and were you able to find one?

I won't be getting one now, since I just upgraded to the N3DS late January (early Valentine's gift). I was holding out for an N2DS, but didn't want to wait anymore. Oh well, I hope it's successful anyway!

Thank you Reggie for my Cadillac!

More like we want to keep on milking the 3DS and make more money.

@bolt05 the C stick is used by a few games

I think i want one! We're finally getting on board with the gaming craze. I guess we're having a mid-life crisis!

@Bread-Not-Toast
Why would they ever NOT want that?

I have no problem with this, nowadays people already gave up on 3D anyways as it brings nothing to gaming, having this on the market just save those people several bucks from getting a system with useless feature they wouldn't even use not to mention most games doesn't even take full advantage of.

@BulbasaurusRex The regular-sized New 3DS was released in the states last fall, but in a very limited run. There was a Mario version for sale in Target for a while and then they released a white and a black version for Black Friday in various retailers for $99. The problem was the retailers suddenly put it up on their websites a couple of days before Black Friday and they were all snatched up by lucky people like me (I got a black one on Walmart.com) or by scalpers who are still charging exorbitant amounts if you can find one. It would be nice if they released it again here. It really is an awesome handheld and I don't regret not getting the XL version.

Here is a link for the Mario version that was out:
http://www.target.com/p/new-nintendo-3ds-super-mario-3d-land-edition/-/A-51327765

This is the one I picked up at Walmart.com:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/New-Nintendo-3DS-Super-Mario-Black-Edition/54906123

"Few would've guessed the announcement of a new model of 3DS would be made"

Actually, I did. I commented on the first article posted speculating on the 3DS's demise in light of the Switch that the 3DS was not dead, that it served a different use and market segment and that I woiuld expect to see new hardware even.

It's all about pricepoint, cost of entry and demographic. Makes perfect sense to me.

i want something thats in between the in between of the between

At almost double the price of the first 2DS, "something in-between" is taken almost literally.

I don't need one but here's hoping it's not a terrible miscalculation on Nintendo's part. That being said, I wish Nintendo of America would bring the white/orange model here. We only ever get blues (and occasionally reds) over here. The white/orange mode would have been hard to pass up had it actually came over here.

@BulbasaurusRex More like every region but North America. Very annoying. They've sold every model (in a non limited run) except the regular NN3DS.

If your four, five, or six year old is playing Mario Kart 7, they aren't playing online because the lobbies are pretty much dead these days......

@dkxcalibur that's the thing.
It is bettr to make a normal 3DS game than an exclusive one becase the install base with the older model will always be bigger than the one with the new model.

This is to close that gap and to give a chance for new 3ds exclusive games to surface, and with better hardware, to increase it's lifespan while the switch takes over.

It's an interesting, if predictably reggie-spun justification. It ALMOST makes sense. The 2DS is dirt cheap and a lot obsolete, it's not appealing, and 3DS is Cadillac(-priced), so they probably did need a mid(-priced) entry. But I think it's spun hedging around reality.

The way I see the reality is, they don't want to drop the price on the 3D model because it's still selling ok enough, and it's still the ONLY 3D gaming experience aside from VR right now so anyone that wants it will gladly pay it, yet a dwindling number of people actually want that (unfortunately, it was wonderful and added a lot to a small screen. I'd pay for a 3D switch.) The 2DS makes almost no money I imagine, and is so "ruggedized for toddlers" it has little appeal to anyone else, plus it's obsolete in the internal hardware as more EOL games will try to use the =New= features such as FE Warriors and lots of games benefit from the Circle Pad Pro controls available to every 3DS except OG 2DS.

Meanwhile N3DSXL is getting close to Switch pricing and a lot of its market has moved over.

So as I see it they'll over the next year (AFTER Christmas) lower the price of the N2DSXL/N3DSXL, separating it further from Switch, and likely bump out the OG 2DS quietly from production as the N2DSXL price gets closer to its current price, and it's a pretty obsolete box that will shrink in sales if a price cut on N2DS occurs. I imagine they'll cut production of the N3DS(small) quietly too since it's basically a Japan-only product at this point. That leaves them with TWO models in production in a years time, N2DSXL and N3DSXL, both sharing all hardware except the upper display SKU and the casing, dramatically simplifying production and costs, and giving a price range of consumer options. Over a longer term I see them dropping the N3DSXL (no more Cadillac) and using the N2DSXL as the "PS3 Slim/Wii Mini" as they sunset the 3DS.

I.E. long term strategy of the N2DS isn't really to offer a middle tier so much as to simplify production expense and capacity by standardizing on producing one set of hardware in two different assemblages. The middle tier is temporary unless the OG 2Ds just performs so darned well they can't ditch it.

@k8sMum ahem...coughcough..

@RadioHedgeFund Yes, if only they could repeat the heights of Kinektimals and Ryse, XBox could be on top again! Lets face it, XBox built its brand as the most superior platform for formerly PC-only multiplat developers. And Scorpio doubles down on that. But Microsoft not only didn't put any special attention into building first party studios and brands, but they actively gutted Game Studio, reducing it to a shell of what it once was. That's kind of the point of Scorpio. Beyond some token tech demos they just don't have a stable of 1st party and exclusive content, so they have to focus on being a premium multiplat experience.

I got a DS XL once and didn't like the size of it, to me it didn't feel comfortable.

Also I'd be tempted if they announce you can play snes VC, then again I might just wait for Switch VC announcement.

@DanteSolablood that's odd, nowhere in my comment is the word 'failure' even present.

You NDFers never cease to amaze.

Also, ironically, the XB1 has more than doubled the sales of the Wii U in a years less time and will forever have better 3rd party support than the Switch.

@RadioHedgeFund people fail to realize that 90% of all games on PS4 are also on XB1, and vise versa.

Still enjoying RE7 on my XB1, for instance. Oh and all the free games they give me every month.

I thought this was a weirdchoice at first, but I've spoken to a few friends who are interested in buying one. Either to enter the robust 3DS ecosystem of games, or to upgrade from an older model. Its a good "middle of the road" compromise.

I'd say there's another year or two that can be squeezed out of the 3DS family if the N2DSXL floats it down into its twilight. Once it's obsolete, it will also be a great budget option. I think the "Super Switch" or whatever they call the upgraded Switch platform will likely be what kills the 3DS line.

Basically a new 3ds without the 3D. Wish these had launched at the same time the new 3ds did. I pretty much never use the 3D function so that's 50$ I could have saved for a game. I think it's a great idea.

I give up...I don't understand gamer culture anymore, not even my fellow Nintendo fans...

Why is the New 2DS XL such a shock and mystery to everyone?

Why is everyone jumping on Reggie Fils Amie even when his statements make perfect sense, regardless of what other reasons you have for hating him?

More and more games for the 3DS family are being released with limited or no stereoscopic 3D function. It will allow for quicker, cheaper ports and lower processing demands. Also, people constantly tell Nintendo that they don't even use the 3D function.

Why does this product so flabbergast and beguile the internets?

@Gridatttack I hope you're right and we see more exclusive "new" 3DS/2DS games to take advantage of the extra power.....but I doubt it.

I like the new 2dsxl. Already have OGOG3DS and New 3ds, but might buy this one too. 3DS can stay for another 4 a 5 years for me. They should also re-release some other 3rd party games like RE Revelations and Metal Gear Solid to kinda market to teens and adults who dont want to spend a lot on a gaming handheld and these games can be in the same pricerange as the "nintendo classics", around 20 euros/dollars. No development costs just copy paste. Nintendo should just keep the marketing on a good level and distribute some older 3rd party games themselves for variation. There are still a lot of people who didnt played these games or were to young for certain games and can then discover them now.

@DanteSolablood $149 is just a starting point. They will eventually sell the system for $99. They probably can never sell the 3DS XL for that much.

I'm getting 1 as backup for when my 3DS bites the dust. I may also wait and see if they would allow me to transfer all my Eshop games which is a Ton of games btw. Should I not be able to do that. It could be a deal breaker.

Why they chose to make these over more Zelda amiibo is baffling and stupid...

I really don't get all the hate for this thing. Everyone crying about 'why not just get a switch' is missing a few things, first is the cost, I'm not going to pay 400+ bucks to get a handheld. I hardly play consoles at home on the TV. I'm not paying console price for portable handheld. Affordable handhelds has been Nintendos calling card since I picked up an original grey Gameboy when I was 5.

Second, the Switch isn't a portable handheld. It's frigging huge. The 3DSXL is already borderline too big and the Switch dwarfs that. I'm an adult now, I don't wear a backpack everywhere or sit in the backseat while my parents drive me around. I want something truly portable.

Third 'we didn't need this'... well you might not have, but lots of us do. My 3DSXL is getting a bit old now, I'd like the option to play the New 3DS exclusives and VC, I'd like the extra buttons for Monster Hunter and I almost NEVER use the 3D effect. Plus the updated form factor is nice. So actually yea, this is the perfect opportunity for me to finally upgrade for a more reasonable buy in.

'I don't personally like or need this so it's stupid, Nintendo is so stupid.' how bad is your guy's aspergers?

Oh, and even if Nintendo stops making games for the 3DS family this year or next, there is already such a huge library that I'll be playing for years, maybe the next decade or two. And what, do you think people just buying one now for the first time will be disappointed because there are no new releases? Do you people not play old games that are 'new to you'? God gamer culture has gotten completely stupid.

@liljmoore I agree 100%. While I love Nintendo's IP's like Mario, Zelda, etc and am enjoying my new Switch greatly.. I am consistently baffled by the company's odd business decisions. Releasing a new 2DS and keeping the 3DS going to compete with/steal the fire from their own new Switch which doubles as a powerful handheld anyways? Not to mention lack of trophy/achievement support, cloud saves, locking digital purchases to a device instead of at the account level like Sony/Microsoft, etc.. I AM a Nintendo fan and just want to give constructive criticism to a company I treasure from my childhood, that needs to evolve ASAP in my opinion.

@JasonATL87

I agree about cloud services and accounts that are independent from the machines. I'm not too fussed over achievements though, gimmicks that I don't pay attention to.

As for the 3DS stealing from the Switch though, or the Switch being a handheld, you're just not getting it. I have owned every Nintendo handheld since the original Gameboy. Often multiple iterations of them. I haven't bought any of their consoles after the N64 when they were new. I have a Wii and a Wii U now that I got in the last year because they were dirt cheap. The Switch is NOT a viable replacement for the 3DS for me, or many like me. It is too damn big, and too damn expensive. I don't want to pay for all of the console features when I'm barely going to use them, and I want something I can fit in my jeans pocket. It just doesn't fill the same niche at all, Nintendo obviously knows this, and there was never any chance that they were going to consider it a handheld replacement.

Look at it this way, I will not be buying a Switch in the near future, at least not for probably 3 or 4 years at the soonest when the prices might hit current Wii U levels. Nintendo can either a) continue to support a true handheld line and keep making money off me, or they can b) drop the handhelds, dump everything into the Switch, and lose a shitload of business. Either way, I'll keep playing my 3DS and I won't buy a Switch.

@rykirk thanks for the response. That's not a case of me "just not getting it".. that's a case of you having entirely different needs/expectations/financial situations/preferences than I do. I do not mind the price tag on the Switch as I have a good income, I value console style experiences on a handheld (which the Switch does qualify for, despite its larger screen.. I have a great carrying case and screen protector for it).. especially once they add the virtual console and add games from prior generations of both console AND the 3ds family. I prefer the console features on a handheld, and I know I'm not the only one due to the sales figures. It's also pretty unfair to compare this to the Wii, as that system was never portable/handheld, etc. Thanks

I'm 40 and prefer the original 2DS over this and the 3DS. It just feels better in the hands.

@TenEighty I'm 47yo and I have a 3DS XL and have no troubles holding or using it for extended periods of time, so if you're somehow implying that it's an age thing, then I'm proof that it's not.

Could be a hand size thing, though...

Love the IDEA of a "New" 2DS XL, but the black and "neon" blue color scheme for us here in the US...bleh. Plus, I love the slate, non-clamshell design of my 2DS.

Not getting one until it gets a price cut and new colors....

So maybe never. Luckily, I still have my red 2DS, which is excellent.

This shouldn't be a controversial move. Nintendo always has numerous iterations of it's handhelds. If this affects the Switch at all, which it shouldn't, what does that say about the Switch?

Oh my, this just leaked on YouTube. Nintendo isn't stopping at the 2DS, they're going even further:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFe__XAwJok

@DanteSolablood You're considered relatively well off in the USA if you have a Cadillac. It's sort of a status symbol of being distinctly middle class, and not lower or upper class. So the Switch would be the real Cadillac of gaming at the moment. The N3DS/XL would be more like a stylish Lincoln or something. Classy, but not fancy.

@ThanosReXXX WOOOOOAH, and it was even leaked almost 4 years in advance! Those damn time travelers and espers!

@Pj1 They're not going to make a special announcement confirming SNES VC support for New 2DS XL, because they already did that by announcing its use of the "New" upgraded hardware. As, for VC on the Switch, all indications so far seem to be indicating they're abandoning it ("Virtual Console" by Nintendo's official definition has been original games from older systems that use emulation--- The fact that NeoGeo games appear on the Switch eShop without it the "VC" label pretty much confirms this, as up until now, it hasn't been optional). We're definitely going to get classic games on Switch in some form (likely modified Switch-specific ports adding online, etc.), but it looks like we'll have to rely on 3DS VC and NES (and likely upcoming SNES and N64) Classic systems for emulation of the originals.

@gatorboi352
> The Switch can go to hell, I have an XB1
> Has an Xbox one
Top kek

@dkxcalibur No, I was not interested in the NES Classic.

I have a 4 year old. No way would I buy him a Switch, but I would consider getting him this 2DS for his 5th birthday or Christmas. This actually makes a lot of sense until a "Switch Mini" with a smaller screen and non-detachable controllers comes out in a year or two.

As it is, the Switch is way too big and finicky for tiny hands.

@BulbasaurusRex The standard New 3DS was never exclusive to Japan. It was released alongside the XL in Europe and Australia as well. North America was the only place that didn't get it right away... but they've since had a few silent limited runs of it on and off since Fall of 2015.

Amazing that you can make this because you heard consumers want it but you ignore consumers want NES Classic.
More Nintendo horse crap.

@JasonATL87

You're still not getting it. I'm not talking about what YOU or I prefer. I'm talking about a market segment. Yes I talked about my preferences, but only to illustrate that there are people out there for whom this makes perfect sense. Just because you would personally prefer a Switch, doesn't mean that there is ANY downside to Nintendo promoting the 3DS line as a business decision. There are many, many other people like me who prefer low cost of entry gaming, prefer smaller more portable systems, or who prefer handheld to home console. The Switch doesn't fulfill that niche, it is cool that it CAN be portable, but that's really a bonus feature in my opinion. It is primarily a console. It would be bad business for Nintendo to stop supporting the 3DS line until they have a proper replacement.

You said it was bad business for them to promote the 3DS line, because it will cost them Switch sales, I'm explaining to you why there are many potential 3DS/2DS purchasers and users who would not buy a Switch because it doesn't have the design parameters they're looking for. So if they don't push the new 2DS, those are simply lost sales.

@rykirk I have Asperger's syndrome. Behavioral distaste =/= strangely wired brain.

@rykirk After your clarification, I see your points and I agree with some of where you're coming from. No need to personally attack me and say I'm still "not getting it", etc - not big on arguing via internet comment threads. I still think it's an odd business decision, given that they only have so many supply chain & financial resources compared to Sony/Microsoft, and with the shortage of supply on the Switch you'd think that would be their main production focus right now. You can keep your opinion and I'll keep mine. Have a good one

This will be the Game Boy Micro of the 3DS family. It's completely unnecessary. The 3DS is on its way out - a more sensible choice would have been a price cut, and include some ad or something to promote the Switch as the new thing that will have the Nintendo experience, and leave the 3DS as the entry point for kids.

@rykirk oh and to add to my last response, I did not say it was bad business for them to "promote" 3DS sales.. that's great they have that niche and they should continue to sell and manufacture them indefinitely. But can you please clarify why there was a need for ANOTHER hardware revision when the current 2DS and 3DS XL, etc were fine as is? THAT part adds a new complexity to the supply chain.

@Luna_110 I agree 100% Luna, well spoken.

@ThanosReXXX
No, not an age thing. The article just mentioned the 2DS for younger people or kids. I just find, for my hands, the original 2DS is just more comfortable to play with.

@Luna_110 @jasonatl87

I bought a Gameboy Micro after already owning a vanilla GBA and a SP. No regrets, I still own it and it is still my preferred system to play GBA carts on. There are lots of consumers who will pay a reasonable amount for an improved form factor version of an older console if the price is right. Every console company does this. There are many gamers who don't have that much free time to game and get to stuff late, or take awhile to work through catalogs, or simply prefer to or must stay a generation behind due to cost considerations. I kept buying GBA games long after the DS was out, I still pick them up used and play them from time to time. I predict I will keep buying 3DS games until they are no longer on the shelves. In fact with digital distribution, I will likely keep buying 3DS games until the eShop closes. It's all revenue from Nintendo's point of view.

I won't speculate to supply chain and logistics questions, except to say that I doubt things are as simple as 'we make less 2DS's and then we can make more Switches.'

@rykirk I did not say make less 2DS's, if you will proof read my last response please. I said adding a NEW/revised hardware version of the 2DS to the supply chain which is not the same as just making an existing version (if you try looking up 'economies of scale' theory). This combined with the fact that the Switch has had well documented supply constraints (they are even flying units by plane to meet demand in US which is not cost effective for them), seems like bad timing even if they were to do this in half a year from now it would have been much better, once the Switch production had stabilized. But my points seem lost on you coming from my Business background, I'll let you get back to your Gameboy Have a good one.

@gatorboi352 "ironically, the XB1 has more than doubled the sales of the Wii U in a years less time"

I'm not sure you know how irony works, though your "my console is better because it sold more than one of gaming's biggest failures" argument doesn't reek of desperation at all. How'd it do against the Neo Geo Pocket Color? Either way, have a nice day & enjoy your Kinnect.

@JasonATL87

I do understand what you're saying. I'm just not sure it works like that. The New2DSXL wouldn't require much R&D. It's just a New3DSXL in a new clamshell. All the hardware is the same, they just use a different screen in a new plastic shell.

As for manufacturing and shipping, please don't talk to me like I'm a kid, I understand economies of scale and business. If Nintendo has to fly the Switches overseas instead of shipping them on boats, it's because the factory that is manufacturing the Switch didn't produce enough in the first wave, not because there aren't enough boats because a bunch are all full of New2DSXL.

If you want to say that Nintendo has X amount of manufacturing capacity, liquid assets to order production runs, etc. Maybe. I personally have no idea how Nintendo runs the manufacturing side of their business. I would suspect like most big electronics companies they just hire a manufacturing company to build it to spec. So how do we know that the 2DSXL is impacting Switch production and availability at all?

With your 'business background' you should understand that companies have to make ballpark estimates, they probably estimated conservatively based on the performance of the Wii U and made too few Switches. Whether they increase production capacity now has a lot to do with just how great the demand might be, it's always a risk when a first run sells like hotcakes. On the one hand you don't want to end up short again next time, but on the other maybe that first rush was just a first rush and if you make twice as many the next time around you'll end up sitting on millions of dollars of unsold consoles. There are probably so many other factors impacting Switch availability that I really doubt this side venture is going to play a major part.

@rykirk thanks for the long essay, but I'm going to skip that in-depth "analysis" and get back to "work' with my "business background". I'm done having pointless conversations with someone on the internet who has nothing better to do than rant back and forth on something so trivial in the grand scheme of life. Enjoy and congrats on being the 1st to reach my block list on this site.

@TenEighty So, it IS actually a hands thing, then. You mentioning your age kind of made me wonder what that had to do with it.

@DanteSolablood actually i have the Halo 5 edition which, ironically, does not include the Kinect.

I mean really you're just coming off as a salty Nintendo fan.

@gatorboi352 As apposed to a salty XB1 fan? Though again, you seem to misunderstand irony, my point was the Kinnect (vital for the system to work according to Microsoft at launch) had failed. The fact your XB1 came without one only underlines my point.

In regards to the salty Nintendo fan part, I'm not sure what I'd be salty about - I have never owned a WiiU as I never had faith in it & my last home console was my PS3. Your dislike of the Switch doesn't lose me any sleep - it's just fun talking to someone defending a dumb comment by throwing shade. Never ends well.

I absolutely love the design of the New 2DS XL, it looks amazing. That being said, doesn't Nintendo already have an in-between when going from the 2DS to the New 3DS XL? Isn't that currently a space that could be occupied by the smaller New 3DS, the non-XL version? They have already shown that it can be sold at price points of $99 (holiday season) and $149 (Super Mario Land 3D bundle). I am confused as to why they have been so apathetic towards the smaller New 3DS.

@Windy I'm in exactly the same situation. I can't imagine you wouldn't be able to transfer your games. I'm sure it will be possible.

@SLIGEACH_EIRE and on that we can absolutely agree! A good announcement could have been hey heres a vc title for all the final fantasies or mother 3 or som 2 or any number of games fans actually want or even additional nes minis and they release a 2ds xl... i mean it defies logic.

And lets all be real its a bloomin 3ds LITE!

@JasonATL87 To compound the issue, supply of current 3DS models is so constrained (due to focus on NS) that they're often overpriced sold new right now. There are 3DS XL's being sold for $220, $250, and even $280. That's without any game or even the AC adapter, just a regular edition of the console. It should be $200 tops. And of course, the limited editions are being sold for ridiculous amounts of money. It's actually possible to just buy the plates for some of those and replace them for oneself. (For example, the Majora's Mask plates, for what... $10-15 each? Why pay $100+ more just for that?)

All of that isn't even getting into the chronically low stock of N3DS due to generally not producing them in bulk for the US market. That's often overpriced too, getting into the $180+ range when that is supposed to be the $150 option. Sure, there are times when they're sold for a steal (I got one for $100 from "Black Thanksgiving"), but that's not enough.

The 2DS was originally supposed to be the sub-$100 budget option geared towards younger audiences, which has been an evergreen, legacy mainstay for Nintendo since the $80 Game Boy. There's no logic to creating a N2DSXL model and pricing it outside of the featherweight budget range into a completely different price bracket. (Which will probably also become overpriced when stock runs low on that.) But then again, since when has Nintendo been known for making logical decisions?

@DanteSolablood your take on the XB1 and failure couldn't be more of a straw man argument if you tried. If anything, it shows competency in a company to adapt and change to save their product.

As for me, I have never owned a non Nintendo system before the Xbox one, and cannot believe I never did, considering how much I was missing out on once I traveled outside of the walls of Nintendo fandom. You should try it sometime!

@gatorboi352 A straw man argument like your creation of my "Nintendo fanboyism"? I clearly stated I don't own the last two Nintendo consoles but I do have a PS3 (also had a PS1, PS2, Saturn, Dreamcast, etc.).. then you state I should "travel outside the walls of Nintendo fandom". Now that is ironic.

Nintendo still think the Switch is not a handled. God saves us.

I was surprised too but really it had been increasingly clear for awhile 3DS was going to be supported for awhile longer.

I think this is a great idea and bet by xmas its $129 with digital game bundle. I may get one because I have a launch 3DS and then XL but never went for N3DS. Like others in the USA am honked regular N3DS never came here.

Nintendo is actually in a great market position. Switch is a hit and the hybrid concept has legs, unlike WiiU and like Wii people 'get it' and want one. But the under $200 and under $100 market is Nintendo's alone. Cheap tablets and phones are not game machines. The 3DS library is super and honestly I am not sure why N should kill the line. Sony pushed both cheap ps2/ps1 itterations close to 10yrs after launch. How long till N2DSXL is $99.

Last point. 3DS/2DS is handheld gaming and that is a different concept than Switch I think N should ride 3DS/2DS as long as they can keep making it cheaper and I would like to see smaller models. Again what elae exists in its market space? When Switch gets established and cheaper then push it into different formfactors like a Lite (true handheld) and a micro console. The future looks good, now bring is a new 2D metoid on 3DS and prime on Switch and I would be ecstatic.

@Ebefren

You know I have been a gamer on both handheld and consoles since the dawn of gaming. I have always wanted what Switch offers which is the ability to continue a game home/away

Ok so I have Switch and love the concept but it really isn't IMO (and Nintendo's its creator) a handheld system. It is a portable console. I saw someones analogy I liked that Switch is like the laptop of gaming systems.

If you listen to Nintendo in recent years I think Switch is more a platform than a system. I think eventually we will get a Switch handheld and other form factors as well allowing Nintendo one unified platform across multiple form factors to push their awesome software on.

@DanteSolablood so when are we going to revisit this phantom use of the word 'failure' I never used towards the Switch yet you accused me of in my original comment?

@gatorboi352 Simple, I didn't accuse you of using the word "failure". I was replying to someone who used the word using their terms (notice it's not your name at the start of my comment). However, it was fair to assume you had a problem with the Switch as you did say the Switch could "go to hell"... which is pretty hateful.

Anything else you want to accuse me of or are you done now?

Considering you've not really gone after the person who "did" use the word failure first, I take it this is an attempt at defending your ego?

Edit: BTW, it is odd how Anti-matter seems to be responding to you when he says "the Switch is not a Failure" & yet the word isn't in your original statement. Based on your behaviour in the comments so far I wouldn't put an edit past you.

No Reggie, the $300 Switch is the "Cadillac" of handheld gaming. I have one; it's awesome, docked or not. dropsmic

@BulbasaurusRex
Both Europa and Japan got the regular and XL sized new 3DS, only America got screwed ovef (finally).

I'm absolutely buying this. I've always hated 3D so this is perfect for me. Why didn't you guys just do a poll to ask who's buying it?

I'm not sure how much I buy the idea that an in between was desired. At the same time, I don't see the problem in having options. I actually don't care for the 3D to be honest and if I had some extra money to kick around, I'd totally consider buying this to replace my 3DS XL, which is in fine working condition. But has been dropped and is a little physically beat up

I see the mix of comments, but I think this was really needed. The 2DS on its own is a nice starter piece but it's also very open for easy damage since it doesn't fold up onto itself so for many an added case purchase was needed. It also had that small screen going for it and the less than, for enough, comfort of the oddly spotted L/R buttons too, plus lacked the 2nd stick(nub), and was the slower original model.

This system is perfect for anyone wanting something XL sized, more comfortable to use, protects the screens on its own, has the powerful guts of the N3DS inside for better performance, yet only lacks the 3D and that's it. Keep in mind many people shouldn't (little kids) use 3D, or can't use it (eye conditions, blind in an eye, easily throws up, etc.) The price is pretty fair as it falls in the middle and there's plenty of perks to back it up.

The only thing I question is that closing statement. Nintendo is well known for releasing hardware then killing it within roughly a year (DSi, GB Micro.) But in this era of systems dragging on for years beyond their expected life with hardware upgrades anything is possible. A $150 dedicated handheld with a DS+3DS library vs a $300 handheld/console hybrid — there's room for both.

And then we heard from consumers, 'Boy, I wish there was something in between.'

No! That's not what consumers were begging for.

Here's what Reggie really meant:

And then we heard from consumers, "Boy, I wish we could find an NES Classic on store shelves.'

It's gonna sell well regardless.

I love my New 3ds XL, and also have an earlier version of the 2DS (which I used before I upgraded). That being said, I think there are far too many versions of this console out there as is.

It's disappointing that Nintendo discontinued the NES mini on account of "limited resources" and then just released yet another version of the 2DS family. I don't get it. It's been years--most people who have a 2ds/3ds already have one, including kids. What could possibly be getting released that would cause anyone to buy one that doesn't already have one at this point?

Why did they release this? because they like money, du'h

There are people out there who will buy anything of a certain company, even just to collect that certain thing, and Nintendo isn't clueless to the fact that most their fanbase is like this.

Only good reason I can see to pick this up would be for someone that is still only got the original 3DS, or has the cheap 2DS and wants to upgrade, other than that, this is really unnecessary.

I'm glad they are still supporting the 3DS at this point, and eventually fade the system out, and give all the games over to the Switch. The 3DS is very old now, and you need to give all your love to the Switch with games and support.

@tedko I'm going to actually put a phonecall into Nintendo and tell them, "look if I can't transfery games I'm not gonna buy it." Then see if they can at least deal with me and add in the notes that they approved the system transfer. Should they not approve I actually might pass on it. But damn it looks so sexy!

@Nico85 Well yea, I:m just saying that nintendo reported they won:t be swimming in profits unless the sell many units. Not many people will buy the new 2ds and the switch. Because the switch is expensive and many good games are coming to it. At the end of the year, most of my allowance savings will be gone. And Unless the 2ds gets many good games and the switch won't get them, im not buying the 2ds. The switch is just out of its league

@Blazinglegend16 I feel the same way. I bought the Switch and already had a 3ds. But I'm feeling the pinch. I would love an extra Joycon controller but that price is keeping me away. So I'm buying games instead. Then there are a few 3ds games I want.