The 3DS 'family' of systems has life in it yet, which is perhaps best typified by the upcoming release of the New Nintendo 2DS XL, a system designed to fit into the market between the low-priced 2DS and the more 'premium' New 3DS XL.
We've been looking at the orange and white version once again, so below our video man Alex does an unboxing, sets it up and shares his views on the screens, audio quality and more besides.
Are you planning to pick up a New 2DS XL on 28th July?
Comments 95
Oh god, not another video.
@AlexOlney Videos like this are great, keep up the good work!
I've got this on order as my New 3ds has serious light bleed on one of the screens and a problem with the thing that holds the stylus in meaning the stylus constantly either hangs out or falls out. Plus I want to upgrade to a bigger screen and don't mind the lack of 3D.
Plus Alex is super cute
I was in Target yesterday and they had about 7 each of the blue 2DS with Mario Kart and the purple Galaxy New 3DS XL. I'm pretty sure that's by far the most I have ever seen in any store at once.
So while people are on the prowl for Switch, continue to fill up the 3DS case with New 2DS XL.
This is nice and all, but the 2DS is currently $79, it's a kids console, $149 makes it not a kids console. Why change the tablet to a clamshell, wasn't the tablet design better for kids? Nintendo Logic.
I use the 3D 100% of the time and it still impresses to this day, seeing as you asked in the video.
Also, I'm sure you just meant in terms of save data for physical games, but I strongly disagree that 4GB is enough for a 3DS/2DS. It's fine if you're just starting out though I guess.
Anyway, can't wait to get one.
I really like the look of this but no way am I paying €150 for Nintendo's last roll of the 3DS generation. The white and orange is a nice combo but it will get dirty over time. My white DS Lite can vouch for that.
I hope to God that adapter was for the European model and not the Irish/UK model.
@AlexOlney Are you any the wiser now on where that 2DS is from?
Looks neat.
If only 3DS got new update for Region Free officially from Nintendo someday...
@SLIGEACH_EIRE
Psst... I have a plan to buy New 2DS XL.
I really like the look of the white one but no 3D = no buy from me!
That watch is amazing!!!
I forgot this even existed lol
@rjejr At $150 I was at least expecting the inclusion of a true second analog stick, but that nub is a no go for me. Even after modifying it on my N3DSXL, it still feels weird to use.
I'm not in the percentage of the audience for the New 2DS where I can't see 3D or it bothers my eyes. I also enjoy the 3D effect in the titles where it's executed well. I will continue to support the 3DS as long as they keep making games for it. I bought my first ever SNES game, Super Metroid, just recently and I'm excited to be playing it.
This is for people whom only have 6 3ds's
@AlexOlney I think the oh god comments only come from those of us trying to sneak onto this site at work. Video makes it easier to get caught. "Hellooo, lovellly peeeeople."
Sort of mad I gotta get one of these when I just bought a Switch. But no way am I missing a new Metroid.
Interested in one for home use to replace my Majora 3DS XL (which I'm leaning towards selling) although need to learn more about what else has been "compromised" apart from the loss of the 3D.
If I didn't have my between worlds 3DSXL I would totally buy this. Otherwise it plays all but SNES VC games and I'm holding out for VC on Switch for those. Good present for those without a 3DS though.
As I said before, this seems like what the 3DS should have been from the beginning: sleek, covered card slots, c-stick, no 3D, etc.
Speaker placement is a little concerning... it CAN'T be as good as forward facing.
The only thing I don't like is the external hinge... but it looks very durable.
@AlexOlney I ALWAYS use my 3D and hate it when a game doesn't have it (looking at you Mario Maker) and I cannot wait for all the 3D layered backgrounds in Samus Returns. Yay 3D!
@BensonUii Would be amazing.
@AlexOlney This is an unboxing, it has to be a video.
When Alex was so excited about finally getting an adapter only to find it was the wrong one, trolled by Nintendo.
Just have the non xl new 3ds available normally instead of in SpEd bundles and I might bite, but so far the only thing the "new" has going for it is Xenoblade and SNES VC .
Buying this since I not have an XL one.
@RedMageLanakyn I've been expecting a New 2DS for awhile so it could have NFC for the amiibo for kids. But this isn't a 2DS, it's a 3DS w/o the 3D. And it's XL, but they already have a New 3DS XL. The old 2DS design was fine, just add the new innards and nub, make it $99.
Does make me wonder if they'll keep the $79 2DS for kids next to the $149 New one and the $199 3DS XL. All next to the $299 Switch. Nothing like being your own competition. Why sell 1 or 2 portables when you can have 4? Maybe 5 for Christmas if they have another go at the small New 3DS. No competition but themselves.
@Samwise7 I agree, 3D is the best feature for me too.
@rjejr Yeah, they should pick one 3DS and 2DS product and eliminate the rest. Having 4 or 5 products that all basically do the same thing out at the same time next to the Switch will confuse A LOT of parents doing Christmas shopping.
do i need it no. Do i want i mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
I'm "upgrading" from a New 3DS XL solely for the flap over the cartridge slot. I'm tired of losing game progress when the cart pops out while the system is in my pocket.
So, I currently have an "old" (not "new") 3DSXL. What I would like is to get for myself a "new" 3DSXL, buy an N2DSXL, and let the Mrs and the kiddo decide amongst themselves who gets the N2DSXL and who gets my old "o3DSxL".
I'm guessing the N2DSXL will go to the Mrs. because of the Super NES virtual console. But either way, I'll be happy because a) we'll be a "3DS [series] family"......and b) I'll have an "N3DSXL"!!
After losing all my digital saves multiple times from things going wrong during the system transfer processes and getting a 3DS XL with a body color and vinyl skins I'm fully satisfied with, not in any hurry to jump through any more transferring hoops.
They didn't bring much to the table for the New models, and personally no interest in the 2D models as I like the 3D features (for the games that support it, anyway; most newer high-profile releases have ditched that in favor of better graphics and more stable framerates on the aging hardware...).
@AlexOlney Believe it or not, my 32 gig SD is nearly full.
Is the screen IPS or TN, viewing angles?
I think ultimately the camera place looks weird and out of place and the top screen looks weirdly thin compared to the bottom. But oh my gosh both systems look beautiful and they finally have a cover for 3DS came cards, it's about freaking time (I have no idea idea if they have done this with new 3DS's but it's the first time I've seen this on a 3DS model).
I've always found the 3D kind of pointless and actually downgraded from a 3DSXL to the 2DS. So, this is an instant buy for me as I do really miss the larger screens.
@GameOtaku Don't forget improved load times for certain games... Including Pokémon Sun & Moon, which will likely extend to the Ultra edition. Hopefully the Ultra edition corrects frame rate issues there, because even the N3DS frequently encounters them. It's even worse on the O3DS.
(More games can take advantage of the extra processing power through reduced load times by modding a N3DS and forcing extra clock and L1 cache use, too!)
Man it took Nintendo that long to make a cartridge cover for their handheld when Sony did that day one with the PS Vita.
I always use the 3D on my N3DS. I must be weird and just didnt know it :lol
@techdude Probably TN, they don't even guarantee them for N3DSXL models. However, they will probably use recalibrated TN panels, like some of the special editions use, which makes the image significantly less washed out. Having IPS panels really only makes a huge difference with more cinematic titles that make heavy use of shadows and darks, like Resident Evil Revelations. The first level of RE:R in particular is practically a benchmark for panel quality. TN has slightly better response times, so the recalibrated variety is not bad. Although, I can't help but wonder what it looks like through those elusive IPS-NEO panels...
Love the design but I have to have the 3D.
Plus the galaxy XL is awesome !
I would be picking up one of these if they improved the resolution for XL screens. Besides that, looks like a great addition to the DS family.
I've preordered the Japanese Metal Slime one because Dragon Quest!
Unless I'm a dummy, is there still no way to pre-order the orange and white version in the US?
3D makes me sick and I like the design. Will probably get this so I can retire the boring grey 3DS XL, purple new 3DS XL and 2DS to the gameroom shelves.
@roadrunner343 Nope, and it's not coming to the U.S., Nintendo would have announced it and been able to pre-order this. If you want it, you'll have to import it I guess
@UK-Nintendo
Gosh... Six 3DS ?
I owned 2 kinds of 3DS: Older 3DS XL Pink & White + New 3DS XL Pearl White.
I've never turned off the 3D effect on mine and like the 3D quite a lot. However if my N3DS ever got damaged I could see myself getting a N2DS just for the cheaper price.
@TrixieSparkle copy paste SD card to PC before you begin.
Every few months copy paste SD card to PC and keep one copy there or on Google Drive.
With 5-10 mins of effort a year, it is literally 100% impossible to ever lose more than a few weeks of digital saves.
@retro_player_22 all 25 vita owners really love that feature!
They say the 3D in Samus Returns is awsome, so I'll stick to my old New Nintendo 3DS XL If I can find it again...
@Anti-Matter you should buy the new 2ds xl.
@russellohh
The issue wasn't a lack of a backup, it was that transferring between systems, the saves from the old system can't be read by the new system unless they have been processed correctly during the transfer. I had things go awry on two occasions.
@SLIGEACH_EIRE sorry but my white DS lite is not dirty at all. Maybe wash your hands before playing?
@SanderEvers
I'm just glad my accounts and digital licenses have never had any issues during system transfers, as those are far more important than the game saves not reading.
I'm honestly slightly curious about this, I figured since my 3DS and DS libraries are both rather vast I might want to consider getting the ultimate edition of the system. It's not all that expensive either considering.
Your hands probably amplify the sound too
I have an original 3DS XL. Considering the only 3 remaining 3DS games I'm interested in (so far anyways), Ever Oasis, Metroid 2 and Mario+Luigi Superstar Saga don't even require "New" 3DS, I have little reason to upgrade it at this time. I probably won't too. I would like to concentrate on games for Switch.
I regret selling my 3DS now :/ since Metroid is coming. But I sold mine to put towards my Switch, which I think was worth it. Maybe someday I'll get one of these guys, but honestly I am very happy with just my Switch
@ThomasBW84 you are hilarious! Love the video and love the system! I'm really looking forward to getting it next month and your video made me all the more excited to get it!
If this had a higher resolution screen I'd buy one in a heartbeat. But as it stands, it's actually a step down from New 3DS XL...
@Dang69
"Sort of mad I gotta get one of these when I just bought a Switch. But no way am I missing a new Metroid"
Now that's a true Metroid fan right there. I hear you, I'd buy a console to play Metroid too, if I didn't already own a 3DS and Switch. I'd do it for Monster Hunter too, if I wasn't already set.
I'm torn. Seriously torn. I really want to upgrade from my OG red 3DS, but I'm stuck on cost vs. 3D. The N2DS XL is decently priced (plus I love the design), but I really love the 3D effect on many of the games...ugh. The perfect solution would be the normal N3DS, but NoA's confusing N3DS XL decision still haunts me. Technically they're available, but I don't have the time to check the internet for special bundles that will sell out in five minutes....
Sleekest design yet I would say.
I use the 3D. It's awesome once your eyes get used to it.
Whats the firmware?
I wonder if they fixed the screen scratching issue, my sister got a New 3DS xl and just after she transferred her old unit's brains onto one screen (I want to say top) was suddenly scratched apropos of nothing. Nintendo hooked her up (she was horrified the whole time everything would be loss), but she's put the padding from the packaging back when closing it everytime since then.
I figure since this unit was intended to be more child friendly the screen would be hardier.
I want a New 3DS 'Super Deluxe' XL that more resemble the quality of the DSi XL. Seriously, the New 3DS XL got a kinda flimsy feel to it. It bothers me... big time... aaaaarrrggghhhh!!!
I still like the 3D effect, and use it all the time. Although no recent games actually make good use of it.
I'm really tempted to get this as an eventual replacement for my original 3DS XL. I love the sleekness of this design. It's only slightly bigger overall than the small 3DS but with the XL screens.
@rjejr well. Because there are people like me I guess...
I have not had a Nintendo 3DS primarily because I did not like the 3d effect and also cost and that the screens were too small I have been watching as the screens got bigger than finally the new 3DS came out and I was bummed because it's still freaking expensive. So I am finally jumping in and getting a 3DS except it'll be the new 2DS. But I realize I am the outlier there's probably not many people there in my same situation.
Never use the 3D on mine. Looked at these yesterday the blue n black is so nice. Think I may get one.
@MajinCubyan Mine came with 11.4.0-37E.
@AlexOlney gotta admit that blokes got nice pillow cover.
I like the design; it's my favourite in the DS format since the DSi. But the thin plastic feels a bit cheap and flimsy and the screen quality is just okay.
No sale. We still get 240p. Just no. Sorry can't support it. Even with great games. Then it's my loss
What? I ALWAYS use the 3d! It's gorgeous!
I need a new 3DS so I'll be picking this up around thanksgiving probably. My 3DS Smash themed XL broke and I had been using my original 3DS but the screen is a bit small and the battery is really worn out. I hadn't ever upgraded to the "new" 3ds, so this will be my entry
Like watching a delightful child who's eaten too much sherbet and liquorice.
@Tyranexx Same here! It's pretty much the same situation except that I have a purple 3DS. I really want the normal N3DS and I actually asked a friend that went to the US to search it for me since they are way too expensive in my country. If not, I'll probably end up buying this but I have it as a second option since I really want to play Samus Returns in all of it's glory, with the glorious 3D effect they made for the game.
@roy130390: I may end up doing the same thing if I can't get my hands on a normal N3DS. Technically nothing has been wrong with my current system other than a worn-out battery (which I replaced) and the occasional issue with the circle pad not responding as well as it should in a couple of directions. Most of the 3DS games I have played on the system have had wonderful 3D effects. True, most games can do without it, but I feel like it adds to the experience in games like Bravely Default and A Link Between Worlds.
My primary motivation is to get a more current system so that I can still play DS/3DS games for years to come without worrying about looking for a decent used system should something happen to my current one (ran into a similar issue with my original DS). Plus, I feel that the "New" systems do enough things better to warrant an upgrade. Games aren't my primary motivation, though I would like to play through Xenoblade Chronicles at some point.
@Tyranexx Same here! I probably have the best library I ever had on 3DS and I'm also buying DS games I always wanted, so I'm postponing getting the Switch for a while since I'm still in love with my system and I still have many games to get and play for years to come . The problem I had with my models is one common since the DSi, which consists of a crack that ends up getting worse each time you close and open the handheld until it ends up breaking. I managed to paste it and somehow it looks and works perfectly, but after that terrible scare I decided to upgrade.
Still, I'm going to retire my good buddy and keep it in case something happens to the new model (which won't since I really take care of my stuff). While they weren't the reason to upgrade, I'm really excited to play Super Metroid and Demon's Crest again, and it will be really nice to use the 3D effect on MH Stories, Metroid II and a good reason to revisit many games I didn't play in 3D.
Good luck getting the normal New 3DS mate!
@SanderEvers Switch is a console, this is the New 2DS XL, Nintendo's new handheld. It's a handheld because unlike Switch it can't play local multiplayer with just one game, it requires ad-hoc connection, 3 copy of the game and two systems.
One thing I don't like about the New 3DS XL is that the stylus hole wears out over time and the thing just slips out, made worse by the fact that it's placed at the bottom. I'm not too sure about the new 2DS XL, though it appears to be the same, but I hope Nintendo at least made more reliable this time around. I lost 2 stylus'.
That said, while my 3DS is certainly battered, I'm not inclined to really get this one. I like the Switch's design better than the 3DS at this point so I'd rather invest in that, and the only upcoming game that I have any remote interest in any more for it, is the new Metroid Game. I never cared for 3D.
@DarkScythe13 It is possible that every DS/3DS system has the problem...
Well, ok thinking of it, the stylus in my old classic 3DS works suprisingly fine.
But DSi, 3DS XL, N3DS - their styluses and holes all wear off.
@KTT My original 3DS XL was less of an issue from memory as I think the stylus was on the side? Then again that one took an insane beating over time and really started to fall apart, so a stylus was the least of my worries I guess...
That said, I kind of wish they'd have it at the top. The original 3ds had its stylus up the top from memory and that really does seem like the best solution. It felt easier to access IMO also, the stylus was different by design which seemed to help it - though I owned that one the least due to XL later coming out so perhaps I'm not in the best position to comment there.
Still looks kinda cheap, in a young child's chunky-plastic toy way, and slightly fugly to me. It's all in the little details.
@AlexOlney As someone with hands-on experience with the New2DS XL, do you perhaps know if the screen contrast is any better compared to the New3DS & New3DS XL?
Ever since I 'upgraded' to the Ambassador N3DS offered by Ninty themselves, I felt a little bugged by the lower contrast of the screen. Apparently they had to change the screen to support Super Stable 3D.. But everytime I startup my old launch day black 3DS, I feel amazed at how colorful games were on that thing!
If the New2DS XL has better contrast, I'm willing to consider 'downgrading' and give up on the cool yet hardly nowadays supported 3D effect.
If I hadn't already gotten the Galaxy N3DS XL, I probably would've gotten the black and teal one (so pretty). I'm glad the speaker placement worked out, I had been kind of wondering about that.
all the gubbins
@TheMediocritist thanks yo! Figured it was 11.4 but had to ask.
@roy130390: I'm also still buying DS games. I caved a little during Square Enix's spring sale and picked up both Chrono Trigger and Dragon Quest V. My DS/3DS library is also part of the reason why I don't have a Switch yet (others include my Wii U library, budget, and availability lol).
I really baby my systems and try to take good care of them. The only one that I've had to get rid of/replace was my original DS (mentioned previously), since the upper screen didn't work hardly at all near the end. It was a glorified GBA at that point! I accidentally dropped it in the van years ago when my mom had to come to a hard stop in order not to hit some moron who merged right in front of us. The problem wasn't bad at first (bleeding/weird colored display), but it worsened over time.
I'm also planning on keeping the old system around as a well-loved spare. Happy hunting to you as well!
Alex, your videos are amazing. Keep it up!
If I hadn't gotten my Black Friday New 3DS, I think I would have upgraded my OG 3DS to this. It seems well built, and honestly, since I use glasses the 3D effect has never worked really well for me.
Still, I find it interesting that we have to applaud it includes a charger. It should be the minimum!
@Danrenfroe2016 Both my sons are actually thinking about updating their year 1 old 3DS w/ New 2DS XL, but they are also thinking they could buy a Switch instead.
I'm sure some people will buy the New 2DS XL, but after all the effort to make and market the thing, why not just lower the price of the New 3DS XL, no effort involved, and more sales b/c people like to buy things when the price drops, something that has never happened for the 3DS XL or New 3DS XL, always $199. And you can turn off the 3DS, my kids never ever use it which is why they are thinking about the New 2DS Xl for $149, but by late July they'll probably be thinking Switch. Nitneod should have just dropped the price of the New 3DS XL at E3 and be done with that, focus on Switch.
But if you do get one, enjoy, we should all get what we want.
I'll be picking this console up in the future. Looks amazing and I am still on my old-gen 3DS.
It's beautiful. I wish I could get one to play the new Metroid... but now Switch is taking all my gaming budget away so I'll need to pass on it. A pity since I really wanted that Metroid game...
Oh Nintendo! Why didn't you bring that 2D Metroid also to the Switch!!
@DarkScythe13 I think the best possible stylus placement (if you are right handed at least) must have DSi XL. It's just under your right palm, easy to get, easy to hide.
The probablity of the stylus falling from the side is also lower than from top/bottom.
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