Nintendo has kind of a weird clingy love affair with its portable consoles. Each system goes through several iterations before the company ultimately makes an entirely new system. Don’t believe me? Game Boy Advance, Game Boy Advance SP, Game Boy Micro. The DS, DS Lite, DSi, and DSi XL. Now get ready for the most ludicrous of all: 3DS, 3DS XL, New 3DS XL, 2DS, 2DS XL, and New 2DS XL. That’s right, six iterations of the same damn platform. And yes, New 2DS XL was recently announced to be a thing. Or will be, once July 28 rolls around.
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1qrM1UbTyU[/embedyt]
[gap height=”15″]
The New 2DS XL’s screen will be the same size as the new 3DS XL, though the system itself is a bit smaller. Naturally it will play any 3DS or DS game, same as all the other models, but not in 3D. Don’t forget about the built-in Amiibo reader, too. Reggie Fils-Aime, NoA President, states that the system “demonstrates our commitment to the handheld market.” Uh, was there ever any doubt about it? Regardless, the latest remake is plenty affordable at a friendly $150 price tag, plus it comes in black and turquoise or white and orange models.
Give them flack for re-releasing the same console over and over, but the 2DS does make sense. Many people don’t like the 3D, so why pay for it when there’s a cheaper option? And the XL made needed improvements in comfort, while the “New” line added in more power and Amiibo support. On the flipside, this means gamers have to dole out a bunch of cash for every adjustment when smaller, more affordable fixes would have been more consumer friendly. The 3D effect is optional to begin with, some soft grips would help the size problem (though not with the screens) and Amiibo adapters exist for the older 3-and 2DS models anyway. And frankly, if you’re going to develop a game for a platform, you ought to make sure it runs smoothly on the platform its intended for, not force consumers to pony up for a whole new system just to play comfortably.
Take it or leave it, the New 2DS XL comes out in July. I’m happy with my regular 3DS XL, what do the rest of you think? Frivolous or functional? Let us know in the comments, and keep up with The Nerd Stash as we release all the latest entertainment news.