Well, we were not expecting this. Nintendo has announced a brand new budget version of its 3DS handheld console, this time called the 2DS.
Yes, just as the same suggests, the console itself is a 2D version of the current 3DS console, minus the flip aspect of the device – this device is like a 3DS crossed with the original gameboy, in terms of button layout and how it’s held.
The new 2DS is the latest part of the Nintendo DS family of consoles, designed specifically to act as a more affordable version of the 3DS and also pleasing anyone who doesn’t want to use the 3D gaming aspect of the console which many have an issue with.
Although gamers who have a 3DS will know that the console will operate in non-3D by using the 3D depth slider on the right side of the 3DS, Nintendo apparently thought the hassle of using the slider could be saved by releasing an odd-looking 2D version of their biggest selling console.
Gone is the long-standing flip aspect of the DS line of handheld gaming devices and in is a more retro-looking flat device with dual screens and touchscreen features.
The console will be sold in the US and UK in red or blue colours for $129.99 from the October 12th and the 2DS will go on sale the same day as Pokémon X and Pokémon Y comes out. For the UK, pricing hasn’t been set but the 2DS will be landing on our European shores around October time.
A direct conversion of the $129.99 US price tag would see the 2DS sell in the UK for £80-90, but as we are well aware this type of pricing conversion rarely works out in the favour of UK residents.
The 2DS will share the 3DS’ controls, dual screens, touchscreen features and games as well as backwards compatibility for the Nintendo DS line of games. Users will also be able to access the Nintendo eShop via Wi-Fi connectivity and use the console for online multiplayer.
Nintendo America president Reggie Fils-Aime has been speaking about the new 2DS console, saying:
“We’re always thinking about what we can do that’s new, unique, different, and brings more people into this category that we love, And so with the Nintendo 3DS, we were clear to parents that, ‘hey, we recommend that your children be seven and older to utilize this device.’ So clearly that creates an opportunity for five-year-olds, six-year-olds, that first-time handheld gaming consumer.”
So basically Nintendo is aiming for a market of 4-7 year-old gamers…
It’s a strange move but anyone that has ever been near children within that 4-7 age bracket will know just what the power of a handheld gaming console can have on their attention, and it looks like Nintendo has spotted this and is looking to capitalise just in time for the Christmas period.