The 3DS is the handheld console that simply refuses to step into the shadows. With the Switch arriving on the scene blessed with the ability to host both portable and domestic gameplay, many assumed that Nintendo would put its existing handheld system out to pasture, but the Kyoto giant has done the exact opposite; not only are there many major titles coming to the 3DS family this year - including a new Pokémon outing - Nintendo has released yet another variant of the hardware, a sign that it considers the 3DS to be very much alive and well in 2017.
What we have here is a machine which borrows the internals of the New 3DS and places them inside a tough, kiddie-resistant shell while removing the glasses-free 3D effect upon which the console was sold way back in 2011. Is this (presumably) final throw of the dice a worthy means of bringing the curtain down on one of the best handheld systems ever? Let's find out…
New Nintendo 2DS XL: What's In The Box
Compared to the boxes in which the original 3DS, 3DS XL, 2DS and New 3DS shipped, the packaging for the New 2DS XL is surprisingly compact. It's fatter than previous boxes however, and with good reason - it actually comes with an AC adapter, something previous models lacked in certain regions. Nintendo's reasoning was thus: those upgrading to a 3DS XL or New 3DS would already own a power supply. However, with the New 2DS XL the company has wisely chosen to bundle one in, presumably because it is aware that many of the people who pick up this new variant won't have purchased a 3DS in the past.
Aside from the console itself and the aforementioned PSU, the only other items inside the box are a set of instructions and the ubiquitous AR cards, the impact of which is diminished slightly by the fact that the console doesn't have autostereoscopic 3D.
New Nintendo 2DS XL: The Hardware
Nintendo has a long history of creating robust portable devices designed to withstand the hardships inflicted by their typically energetic and youthful owners. The New 2DS XL doesn't buck this trend; it's fashioned from solid-feeling plastic and is every bit as rugged and dependable as its forerunners - despite the drop in weight to a very reasonable 260g.
While it's tempting to imagine that the system is little more than a 2DS with a clamshell form factor, there are some key differences to note. The design of the hinge has changed, and it now protrudes from the top of the console. The hinge also houses the front-facing camera that was positioned above the display on the New 3DS. The microphone is located on the hinge as well, and when the console is opened these elements are positioned slap-bang in the middle, in between the two screens.
The stylus is in very much the same location as it was on the New 3DS, but is now side-by-side with the 3.5mm headphone socket. Next to this is a compartment in which you'll find the game card and MicroSD slots, the latter of which contains a bundled 4GB card. On this bottom edge you'll also find the power button, status LEDs and stereo speakers, one located at each corner. This means there's the added danger of muffling the audio with your palms, but in practice we found this happened a lot less frequently than we expected. Like other members of the 3DS family the New 2DS XL is equipped with rather weak speakers and there's a hint of vibration when set to maximum, a possible consequence of having them so close to the edges of the system.
The left-hand side of the console is home to the volume slider (there's no 3D slider, obviously) while the top edge has the IR port and charging socket. On the back you'll find the dual camera setup for taking 3D photos, even though the console itself isn't capable of actually displaying them; we can only assume the functionality is in place for taking 3D snaps and sharing them with a 3DS owner.
The top of the New 2DS XL features a textured stripe pattern with a glossy plastic surround. Depending on which colour variant you've selected (if your region has both options) these will either be white and orange or black and turquoise. Curiously, Nintendo has decided against including the removable cover plates seen on the standard New 3DS. Given the kiddie-friendly nature of the New 2DS XL, this seems like something of an oversight. While this new machine certainly looks classy enough and is a big leap forward when compared to the original 2DS, we'd imagine that younger users would have appreciated the opportunity to stamp their personality on the system with customizable plates.
Opening up the New 2DS XL reveals a familiar control arrangement. The big alteration when compared to the other New 3DS systems is the movement of the Home button (now located below the pleasantly springy D-Pad); everything else is the same, right down to the placement of the C-Stick "nipple", just above the face button cluster.
The screens remain largely unchanged as well; the top one has a resolution of 400x240 (with no 3D effect) while the bottom display (which still uses resistive touch-screen tech - in 2017!) is 320x240. Both are perfectly adequate in terms of brightness and colour replication, but there's no real improvement on previous screens in the 3DS range, and when compared to your typical smartphone display (or that of the Switch) they look rather washed out and drab. Viewing angles are also disappointing, but if you're moving from the standard New 3DS you're bound to find the bigger displays appealing, even if they do lack autostereoscopic impact.
New Nintendo 2DS XL: Features and Software
Under the hood, the New 2DS XL has the same specs as the New 3DS. That means better processing power and 256MB of RAM, as well as NFC support for amiibo toys. This means you'll be able to play 'New' exclusives including Xenoblade Chronicles 3D and enjoy performance boosts in certain games, such as Hyrule Warriors Legends, Super Smash Bros. for 3DS and Pokemon Sun & Moon.
The system UI remains unchanged from that seen on other 3DS systems, and includes the usual core apps such as 3DS Camera, 3DS Sound, Mii Maker, Mii Plaza, eShop, AR Games, Face Raiders, Activity Log and Download Play. It goes without saying that the New 2DS XL is compatible with all existing 3DS and New 3DS games, and also supports Nintendo DS titles, too.
It's telling that Nintendo isn't making any claims of increased stamina when it comes to the New 2DS XL, and is instead pointing out that the console boasts battery life in line with other 3DS systems. During our review period we managed to get just under four hours of play with typical settings (WiFi on, screen brightness at the default fourth level and volume at full), which doesn't represent a massive gain over its siblings. Removing the autostereoscopic 3D should have given Nintendo the chance to boost stamina, but that isn't the case.
New Nintendo 2DS XL: The Verdict
While diehard Nintendo fans will find it hard to resist snapping up the New 2DS XL purely because it's new hardware, it's clear that the console is aimed at a very specific market. At £130 it's the cheapest way to gain access to the whole of the 3DS library (the original 2DS is cheaper but is hamstrung by its weaker processing power and lack of NFC support) and, when placed alongside the cost of a Switch, makes perfect sense as a starter handheld for younger players.
The clamshell design means both screens are protected during transit - something that wasn't the case with the original 2DS - and the pull-down flap over the game card slot prevents the accidental loss of valuable software. Every inch of the console feels like it has been created for a new generation of Nintendo fans, with the exception of one: the top plate isn't removable and therefore the console misses out on the joyful customisation options seen on the standard model of the New 3DS.
If you already own a New Nintendo 3DS or New Nintendo 3DS XL then there's little reason to contemplate buying this, unless you're especially taken by the design, of course. Parents with children who already own the 2DS will see this as a welcome upgrade for systems which may well be coming to the end of their serviceable lifespans, but it's those approaching the 3DS family of systems with no prior experience that will make the most suitable customers for this fresh handheld.
The omission of 3D is arguably less of a blow now than it ever was, with some key 3DS titles choosing to ignore it entirely, and the low price point should encourage casual players to pick this system up - especially when you consider that the 3DS has a library of games that is unmatched in the handheld arena. It might not be for everyone, but the New 2DS XL could be a vital gateway for millions of the Nintendo fans of the future, and is yet another solid addition to the growing 3DS family.
Comments 54
Hope you got a partial refund on that damaged box.
I'll probably get one. It certainly looks nice and the texture and weight would make it good for any card-save games I'd want to play on a larger screen (like Xenoblade) once in a while.
I have a New 3DS XL, but I still want this from a collection standpoint.
I'm getting this for myself so we have an extra one, if one of the other ones decides to kick the bucket. Plus I like the fact that it has a cover for the card slot. Less chance of the card slot getting dirty.
Probably trade up during the summer. Also, does the New models play youtube on the internet browsers?
Wait, Where is the speakers on the thing? It's missing the 5 dots on the top clamshell.
@EdFairway Isn't there a youtube app on the eshop ?
@Spin It's the two holes on the side of the lower part of the console. You can see it here :
Check out the video too, as Alexfromnintendolifehere talks a bit about how he feared the speaker placement might have been stupid (but it seems okay in use).
@neufel
Yes a youtube app is available, but I was wondering specifically about other video website like dailymotion and the like. Pardon my lack of clarity there.
This is great! I can't wait! I got the original 3DS at launch and have been waiting until the time was right to upgrade and now is the time. Great price point and bigger screen. I'll probably get it right alongside the launch of Metroid: Samus Returns. It would be great if a special edition came out for that, especially when you consider that the interchangeable faceplates aren't compatible with this. No biggy though.
Between this, the SNES Classic that just got announced, And the plethora of games for the Switch that just got announced, Nintendo is going to drive me broke by the the time the year ends.
I got the original 3DS cosmic black so I wanted an upgrade for Metroid, and I'm getting my black/blue new 2DS for only £65 so it awesome
I already have a New 3DS XL, so I'll be skipping it.
I keep telling myself that I don't need...I have the monster hunter new 3ds xl and the animal crossing new 3ds...the black and blue on though...
Pretty though the hardware may be (personally I think N3DSXL is still prettier), it has no 3D. Who wants to play that gorgeous Metroid they keep highlighting how great the 3D is on a 2D device (unless you physically can't use 3D.) Mercury Steam knows how to use the 3D effect better than almost anyone (even some of Nintendo's studios.) Mirror of Fate was GORGEOUS in 3D!
Does this have an option to attach a wrist strap like other any other DS
@EdFairway Yes, you can play videos on the internet browser. I haven't used it much, but the videos are higher quality than on the Youtube app.
Super @Damo
What does it say on the Luigi Faceplate on the New 3DS?
I like the outside texture
Viewing angles only bad on TN type displays, IPS panels have much more forgiving viewing angles. On the New 3ds it is luck of the draw on which display type you get.
@Super1710
Thank you for the confirmation
@Knuckles it was signed by Charles Martinet, it says "Super Damien, Number One!"
I've never seen a more confusing product lineup in my life. The average consumer won't have a clue what to buy.
My current 3DS passes for a 2DS. So no.
@Damo I thought it might have been signed by him, thanks for replying!
I don't need this yet I'll end up buying it.
@neufel You forgot the "Hello there, lovely people"
I like the design but nope, my current 3DS does 2D gaming just fine.
As an adult with adult sized hands, the speaker placement really is a deal breaker. My hands often muffle the speaker on my phone when I'm holding it upright. It's a shame, because I love everything else about this model.
Looks pretty.
I was able to have a play session with one of these systems the other day. As someone who is still using the original 3DS, this new system felt like a cheap build in comparison. Great in terms of anyone seeking a new 3DS at an affordable price, but the general durability of the system just didn't seem quite as strong as previous models. Even the design of the original 2DS seems a lot stronger.
Love the concept, don't like the execution. The price is too high for what it is. I have a red 2DS and this would have to be $129 USD at most, not $149 USD for me to even entertain this. I might as well splurge and get the more feature-rich and aesthetically pleasing N3DS XL. We're only getting the black and blue version here in the US. Something about that black and blue together is... off-putting. That blue d-pad looks gross. Wish we were getting more color variants. I'll just stick with my red 2DS for a while. Still loving it.
Can't wait to get mine.
I may consider getting one if a standard New 3DS doesn't show up in NA next holiday season (or beforehand).
@Liam_Doolan That doesn't surprise me, none of the New 3DS models seem as sturdy as the old 3DS. I like the design of the N3DS but the old system beats it easily for sturdiness of build.
I bought this recently. Excellent 2DS. I was still using my old 3DS before. In comparison to the screen size after playing on the Wii U GamePad (and Switch) , it felt small, which is why I wanted an XL system. Than I disliked the 3D feature, so I went 2D. As it's the only 2D system that's compact, unlike those junkie blocks, It was the perfect buy for me. Only issue I am having is the power button, not really easy-to-use. Plus the stylus is clamped in the bottom and small. The only negatives of that system, in my opinion.
Well, give me a Resistive DS touch screen and a stylus over a capacitive touch screen any day
While attractive I already have an original black 3ds, a red/white 2ds and a white new3ds so I guess I pass. Also after playing bravely default and bravely second I now know that those wouldn't look nearly as good without the 3D effect so yeah. Only thing that could lure me in is the fact that I don't have any "xl" version of this thing but then again I find the screen size of the new3ds to be perfectly fine so it's hard to find an argument for why I should get this. Still kind of want though.
That orange and white combo has really grown on me! I think I prefer it to the other black and turquoise colour combo in NA. Does anyone know the firmware out of the box for these systems? I'm thinking about importing one and cracking it.
Really like the design but definitely happy with my Galaxy new 3ds XL
@Damo I heard that the clamshell does not actually protect the screens, having brought back the orginal's cardinal sin of allowing the controls to touch the top screen, and marking it. Did you see any evidence of this?
so in terms of system size is only slightly bigger than the New 3DS then, correct? I might pick one up then. That was my main gripe about the XL.
@Liam_Doolan I cant talk about 2ds, but the originall 3ds isnt as sturdy as the new 3ds(not xl). Thats just an excuse to not upgrade. I got my OG3DS sinds the beginning and it really is not as sturdy, the new 3ds does has a more plastic feel but the hinges are better. Not to diss you or anything but its just hard for me to believe that people can take these conclusions.
If this had screens just as colorful as the orginal 3DS I still have in my closet, this might've been tempting to buy. But alas, I'll stick with my Ambassador Edition New3DS with it's washed out colors.
@chiptoon No evidence as yet, but I've only had it a week
@Liam_Doolan You're absolutely right. It's quite flimsy compared to the New 3DS and New 3DS XL too. The backlight actually bleeds out the back of the top screen, and all the tops I've seen are a bit warped when closed.
Don't get me wrong, I actually really like mine, but it definitely sits between the 2DS and 3DS XL in terms of quality. Just like Nintendo told us.
Really ugly, it looks like a Fisher price my first console.
What put me off the original 2DS was solely the inability to fold it... the fact that they haven't just fixed that issue, but they've also given it various other upgrades is just great.
This is on the list for me. My New 3DS has seen some hard use and mishaps, so a replacement would be great.
Great value little handheld that's perfect for kids and those who aren't keen on the 3D.
Just hate Reggie for not releasing the white one in the USA...
Since they're selling a system aimed at families I'd like them to have a software vending model also aimed at families, with a unified parent-controlled account that the kids can check software in and out of on different consoles. No one should have to buy Tamodachi Life twice. No one.
How is removing the 3D feature an opportunity to increase battery life? Nintendo decided to save on weight instead of creating a new, beefier battery. By using the same 3DS battery it has made abundant use of in all of its iteration (plus the Wii U and Switch Pro Controllers) it can save on extra cost too. The battery life was always going to be the same as a New 3DS XL that has 3D switched off.
This comment comes off as quite angry but it isn't supposed to be. It's a somewhat reasonable comment to have been made, but I do kind of question the logic.
I like the look of the New 2DS XL, but for my money, the standard New 3DS is still the most beautiful handheld system Nintendo have ever produced.
Brilliant image quality. Still don't like the overall look of the system. I can clearly see where the designer went a bit half-*ssed in certain areas. It's no DS Lite.
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