The Nintendo 2DS. (That is not a typo.)

For real. Ever want a 3DS, but thought it was too expensive? Don't mind losing the clamshell design and the 3D screen? Well, good news for you, bud! Nintendo listened to you - for some reason (why not) - and will be releasing this entry-level "3DS" console for you.

$129.99, I think?

Wait what?

April Fools already?

I'm assuming that 'lack of clamshell design' along with the removal of 3D means this thing has only the touchscreen and no built-in screen protection for when it's off. I can understand why people would not want to pay for 3D especially if they have physiological problems using it but having only one screen will cripple its ability to play 3DS and even DS games that aren't extensively modified.

Did you look at the images on the article? It still has both screens, different aspect ratio and all.

what

My bad. No, I don't normally click on Kotaku links.

Interesting.

Well, this thing does not look very portable. But I suppose the kids who are too young for the 3D on the 3DS will be able to enjoy this.

Considering the trouble I have with depth perception it might have been worthwhile to save some cash, but loosing the clam shell is a dumb move. I don't see this selling well.

They may just finalize the thing as a clamshell, but then again there's no need for built in screen protection if it isn't going into anyone's pocket.

As for it being a questionable decision, well, I'll just mention the GBA Micro and leave things there.

edited 28th Aug '13 8:46:47 AM by Recon5

The loss of 3D is no loss at all, but it looks a lot less portable and ergonomic without the clam shell design. And prone to more potential screen damage/blemishes.

x6 Don't blame you. Well, no harm done, really.

But yeah, aside from the two things I highlighted as being changed, the 2DS is otherwise a feature-full 3DS.

And it still doesn't have a second analog nub. For cryin' out loud...

It'd be a loss for me, but then I still have my launch 3DS. (Waiting on a green XL...)

edited 28th Aug '13 8:47:47 AM by ShadowHog

If Ninty introduces a second analogue nub in a newer design, the majority of developers will end up leveraging it which will effectively obsolete all previous units.

This is an actual thing.

Huh.

I'm not sure this is a sensible venture.

Too late for it at this point, since not many games actually use a 2nd analog stick.

I wonder if they'll eventually have a trade-in program for people who want to trade in their 2DSes for 3DSes.

@Shadow Hog: If a second circle pad was added, it would have to add the rest of the CPP's features, adding more bulk to the system. Not many games use that anyway, so there's not much reason to add it.

edited 28th Aug '13 8:51:34 AM by strawberryflavored

I wouldn't be super surprised if they did the opposite, actually.

edited 28th Aug '13 8:52:28 AM by Grounder

That thing looks so uncomfortable to use though. I understand losing 3D can save costs, but that's kind of a minor thing.

It looks kinda dumb....But hey, now others can enjoy great 3DS games without losing as much money; that's cool.

edited 28th Aug '13 8:52:35 AM by Eternalnoob

But you can buy the original 3DS for lower than this right now.

$129 is just his ballpark. The 2DS will probably be several tens or so cheaper than the RRP of a new 3DS when it releases.

...Now I don't know what to say.

No, that's actually what the article says.