Often, Nintendo makes baffling decisions. The most recent example of which is deciding to release a mini version of the NES, knowing just how much fans wanted it, then ultimately killing it. Granted, it had reasons to do so, but that doesn't erase the baffling element.
Also, Nintendo sometimes gets it wrong. Reggie Fils-Aimé even said so, in reference to consumer demand. Hopefully, its new plaything, the New 2DS XL, isn't an example of this pattern of getting consumer demand wrong.
As if out of nowhere, Nintendo recently unveiled the New 2DS XL, a 2DS sequel bearing the internals, the screen size of the New 3DS XL, in a $150 package that obviously can't do 3D. It's attractive mainly to two types of people: those who want to play 3DS games but haven't bought a 3DS yet, and those who'd like to buy a 3DS system but doesn't care for 3D at all. At $150, it's a proposition Nintendo can sell.
New Nintendo 2DS XL: What People Are Saying
So what do many think of the New 2DS XL? Well, early reviews have now been popping up, and most of them are positive toward the $150 handheld.
The Verge assigned a glowing review, suggesting that the New 2DS XL is what the 3DS should have always been. Chaim Gartenberg writes:
"The New 2DS XL may be the best handheld hardware Nintendo has made since the original DS in 2004."
Looking at the device, it's hard to argue with that statement. Gone is the "axe-like" shape of the 2DS; the New 2DS XL now retains the New 3DS XL's clamshell design, but in a notably different presentation. It's sleek, it's svelte, it looks modern, and it's a refreshing change of pace in terms of design. That's not to say that previous 3DS iterations don't look as good. They do. But the 2DS XL seems like it spent more time in the design stages than the rest of its predecessors.
Polygon agrees:
"This is the most adult the 3DS has ever looked, even if this system serves functionally as a stopgap between the kid-friendly 2DS and the Nintendo allegiant's 3DS of choice."
Note Allegra Frank's usage of the word "stopgap." It's notable because, well, it's true. As mentioned above, it does favor those indifferent to the 3DS's marquee feature — 3D — and those who want a cheap system that can play all 3DS games — including those that need the higher specs of the New 3DS line to run.
New Nintendo 2DS XL: Small, But Notable Changes
There's not much to say about the system's specs, features, and other things. In terms of power, it boasts the same speed as that of the New 3DS XL, and in terms of features, it's basically the same as its predecessors, except that it can't do 3D. That's all there is to it, really.
The little design choices, however, prove remarkable. For example, the SD card slot. In the New 3DS and New 3DS XL, users would need to unscrew the black plate to remove or replace the SD card. No such pain with the 2DS XL, thankfully. The SD card slot has been relocated next to game card slot, a small, but appreciated design choice.
CNET was positive about the system, but criticized its small stylus.
"In some sense, there's not much to say here. The 2DS XL is, really, a 3D-free New Nintendo 3DS XL. It does feel well-built, with a sturdy finish, a slightly more compact build and crisp-looking big screens. The included stylus is small, though."
All told, the Nintendo 2DS XL is perfect for those who have yet to play Nintendo's stellar roster of handheld titles. It's half the price of the Switch, and there's still a wealth of games on the horizon. It looks fantastic, and there's very little negative dialogue surrounding it — except, of course, the low-resolution screens. Especially in 2017. But all 3DS iterations have had low-resolution displays.
Nintendo might have just gotten consumer demand right this time.
The New 2DS XL comes out July 28.
