The New Nintendo 2DS XL, released by Nintendo in 2018, represented a compelling middle ground in the company's handheld console lineup. It combined the larger screen size and increased processing power of the New Nintendo 3DS XL with the affordability of the original Nintendo 2DS by removing the autostereoscopic 3D display. This strategic decision made it an attractive option for gamers who valued performance and screen real estate but weren't interested in the 3D functionality. The console boasted a clamshell design, offering better protection for the screens compared to the slate-like 2DS.
The New Nintendo 2DS XL inherited the enhanced CPU from the New 3DS models, enabling improved performance in certain games and allowing for exclusive titles like Xenoblade Chronicles 3D. It also included built-in NFC support for amiibo functionality. The console's design was lighter than the New 3DS XL, making it more comfortable for extended play sessions. By offering a balanced approach to features and price, the New Nintendo 2DS XL successfully extended the lifespan of the Nintendo DS family and provided a gateway for new players to experience Nintendo's vast library of handheld games before the arrival of the Nintendo Switch as the primary focus.
2018
NINTENDO
NEW NINTENDO 2DS XL
📜 History & Legacy
⚙️ Specifications
- ❖ CPU: ARM11 MPCore Quad-Core
- ❖ GPU: FC FC410 ES1.1
- ❖ RAM: 256 MB
- ❖ Storage: 128 MB internal flash memory, SD card slot for expandable storage
- ❖ Media: Nintendo DS Game Card, Nintendo 3DS Game Card, Downloadable software
🎮 Top 10 Games
- ★ The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
- ★ Pokémon Sun and Moon
- ★ Super Mario 3D Land
- ★ Mario Kart 7
- ★ Animal Crossing: New Leaf
- ★ Fire Emblem: Awakening
- ★ Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon
- ★ Kid Icarus: Uprising
- ★ Bravely Default
- ★ Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
💡 Curiosities
- ? Curiosity 1: The New Nintendo 2DS XL was the last dedicated handheld console released by Nintendo before the focus shifted to the hybrid Nintendo Switch.
- ? Curiosity 2: Unlike the original Nintendo 2DS, the New Nintendo 2DS XL features a clamshell design, providing better screen protection.
- ? Curiosity 3: The console's C-Stick, a small analog stick, offered enhanced control in certain games.
- ? Curiosity 4: The New Nintendo 2DS XL supports amiibo figures via NFC, allowing players to unlock in-game content.
- ? Curiosity 5: It is compatible with almost all Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS games, offering a vast library of titles.
- ? Curiosity 6: The console is lighter than the New Nintendo 3DS XL, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- ? Curiosity 7: The name '2DS' refers to the fact that the console does not have the 3D screen functionality of the 3DS.
- ? Curiosity 8: The console was released in a variety of color schemes, including black and turquoise, and white and orange.
- ? Curiosity 9: The enhanced processor allows for faster loading times and smoother gameplay in certain titles compared to older models.
- ? Curiosity 10: The New Nintendo 2DS XL was marketed as a more affordable alternative to the New Nintendo 3DS XL, targeting a younger audience.