NeoGAF

BomberMouse · 08:58 AM

People seem to miss the point. Game library is fine but it's only enjoyable as the machine to experience them.

In that sense, the 3DS was underwhelming for me, I didn't expect it to be so lackluster. I love nintendo handhelds, especially the GB line and I think they hold pretty well. In contrast the 3DS already feels dated to me.

Originally Posted by Infernal Monkey

Make sure you wipe the touch screen down every now and then, sometimes you'll get what looks like little scratches on it, but they're not. Unless you're really crushing down on the screen with that stylus at full force, which you should probably stop doing if so!

I'll do that next time. DS was way to fragile on this regard and every time I use the stylus it seems create some small dents on the screen.

TheFLYINGManga_Ka · (Today, 08:55 AM)

The games >>>>>>>> all that stuff you mentioned.

:)

NumberThree · (Today, 08:56 AM)

The only system level thing that really bothers me is the battery drain in sleep mode.. I can't just close it and leave it unless I'm sure I'll be playing again in the next day or so. Vita can go for weeks in sleep without noticeable battery drain.

Zushin · (Today, 08:56 AM)

The system itself is okay, if not a little on the disappointing side hardware wise, especially compared to the Vita. However, the incredible library makes up for it.

Glass Rebel · (Today, 08:56 AM)

I agree with everything you've said OP

*goes back to playing Bravely Default*

Madouu · (Today, 08:57 AM)

UI and battery life are fine for what it does, ergonomics are fine for me and I don't see how it's exactly slow? Booting up a game takes like a second and it's always in sleep mode anyway.

Region lock and account system definitely blow.

It also feels as though you are blowing up things in proportion and purposefully exaggerating the issues just to fill up a large bullet point list.

FryHole · (Today, 08:58 AM)

Originally Posted by Teknoman

My touch screen and stylus get along just fine.

Seriously, from the sounds of it some people use the stylus like an ice pick.

It's funny, the OP makes a lot of fair points (not hardware though, xl is a beautiful thing) but you quickly come to accept that's just how the 3DS works. It helps that the game lineup is second to none.

Sakura · (Today, 08:58 AM)

Surely you were aware of most of that stuff before you purchased the system OP. New 3DS owner and you are underwhelmed by things like... region locking? You knew that going in... And I don't know about you but I buy a game system to play games. As long as the OS doesn't get in my way of doing that, then I couldn't care less. It's not a smartphone or something. You plug in a game cart and go.

Atram · 09:00 AM

The most important Part for any device are the Games, on that side there are no issues with the 3DS and i didn´t see any Problems playing them on the 3DS.

For the Hardware, Nintendo for sure could do better.

On the other side, if you like indie Games or iOS Ports the Vita is the place to GO (and the few "Big" Games that are on that Hardware)

Edit: playin Bravely Default shows me StreetPass/SpottPass are killer features on that system, only found on that system.

equippedwithtowel · (Today, 08:58 AM)

Originally Posted by BomberMouse

People seem to miss the point. Game library is fine but it's only enjoyable as the machine to experience them.

In that sense, the 3DS was underwhelming for me, I didn't expect it to be so lackluster. I love nintendo handhelds, especially the GB line and I think they hold pretty well. In contrast the 3DS already feels dated to me.

People know this is your point. They just don't agree.

SmokyDave · (Today, 08:59 AM)

Originally Posted by Kageshinzo

Except that that does not describe how the 3DS is. At worst, it's normal stainless steel utensil. Not pretty, might have a bigger handle that what you're used to, but perfectly serviceable.

Only the jaggies cut your mouth with every bite you take. Also, if you accidentally put your condiments on the wrong table, you need to call customer services and file a police report to get them back.

Man, we're really stretching this whole analogy thing.

Palette Swap · (Today, 09:02 AM)

That's a glass half empty look at things.

I'll agree on the eshop, and region locking is terrible.

I have a 3DS XL and don't find the battery awful per se. It's just the sleep mode that's kind of too much of a drain but playtime is okayish.

The ergonomics are okay too, although it's a bit on the heavy side and I wouldn't play a game that relies on fast touch inputs.

My pet peeve as a glaring hardware oversight is the volume slider, because in 2013 no one uses a volume slider, with good reason.

But yeah, OP is overlooking the library or the pad and buttons, which are the core functions of the console and are excellent.

Edit: can't speak about the 3D since I never use it. Dumb gimmick IMO.

KHlover · (Today, 09:02 AM)

To anyone complaining about the 3DS menu relying too much on touch input: What do you think about the Vita's menu? That one relies FAR more on touch, to the point where I am not sure if you can even use it without touch input at all.

catfish · (Today, 09:02 AM)

Originally Posted by Forbin5

I bought my 3ds for the games.

anyone who does not do explicitly this with regards to anything with the nintendo stamp on it is just being silly.

My preferred nintendo console would be something that just goes straight to whatever game it is. I understand they need a launcher now with the whole digital distribution thing, but I've never spent more than 4-5 mins in the OS EVER. Nor would I, only go there to load the e-shop, download game, play game.

don't understand the notes/the plazas all that shit. turn it all off and give me a text menu to load mario please.

game library is outstanding as always on a nintendo handheld.

SmokyDave · (Today, 09:03 AM)

Originally Posted by KHlover

To anyone complaining about the 3DS menu relying too much on touch input: What do you think about the Vita's menu? That one relies FAR more on touch, to the point where I am not sure if you can even use it without touch input at all.

You can use it with buttons and the d-pad.

fredrancour · (Today, 09:03 AM)

Originally Posted by BomberMouse

People seem to miss the point. Game library is fine but it's only enjoyable as the machine to experience them.

yes, people disagree with this concept by the widest possible margin. Hardware is inherently meaningless and only as good as the software that sold it to you. All the 3ds' features save the account system are generally considered to be good enough to become a seamless, invisible part of the experience once a game you enjoy is loaded up.

kpaadet · 09:08 AM

The account system and region lock really sucks, especially if you live in Europe.

Originally Posted by KHlover

To anyone complaining about the 3DS menu relying too much on touch input: What do you think about the Vita's menu? That one relies FAR more on touch, to the point where I am not sure if you can even use it without touch input at all.

I never use touch when I use the interface on the Vita (hate leaving fingerprints on the screen) and I think its quite fast actually.

frankMX · (Today, 09:04 AM)

All things on your list are true.But that's not the point.Its all about the games.

Margalis · (Today, 09:04 AM)

The UI allows you to launch games.

Not sure what else you really need.

starmud · (Today, 09:04 AM)

the entire ds line is the only electronics product i've ever owned where the clamshell design is something i've praised. i cant imagine the system without it. it makes the handheld.... its effortless and makes perfect sense for the system and its features. the small things like DS games making a remote sound when the system opened/closed made it even better. the action always felt perfect when using the machine.

also, for using the touch screen a fair amount for playing DS games, my 3DS has one light scratch. which is way better than how my DSi fared this far into its life.

the biggest flaw in the 3DS design (IMO) is the 3 way hinge. the screen wobbling is disgusting. the hinge should be much more taunt for the upper screen, instead it feels unreliable and way too breakable.

wuxian fengguang · 09:06 AM

Not at all. I consider the points you've stated minor gripes at worst. Maybe my expectations are more moderate but I consider it as a device for playing games and nothing more. The eShop and UI all do their job adequately, everything can be accessed with ease. Multitasking works fine as long as you consider it a supplement to its primary function, playing games. No complaints on the 3DS XL design front, the original 3DS however does has a well documented screen scratching problem.

As for ergonomics, it can only be judged on a personal basis but I have no gripes there either. Battery life is good enough, I'm on the road more than four hours everyday and due to smart power management I've not even once ran out of juice. The one point I must hand to you is region locking, it's very unfortunate.

Actually, my only gripe at the time I bought it were the lack of games, a problem which has since been resolved to the point I've actually built up quite a backlog.

Aeriscloud · (Today, 09:05 AM)

Your points are valid OP if those are things you care about, but maybe you should of done some research before buying.

Also, it could be worse, it could get almost no major first party support like the "competition." Games are what matter and games are what 3DS does best.

Kageshinzo · (Today, 09:05 AM)

Originally Posted by SmokyDave

Only the jaggies cut your mouth with every bite you take. Also, if you accidentally put your condiments on the wrong table, you need to call customer services and file a police report to get them back.

Man, we're really stretching this whole analogy thing.

That shouldn't matter though because the taste is exquisite; the taste is the only thing that matters. You feel that juice as you dig in to the tender and well-marbled texture of the meat. And then you realize you really can't stop eating and everything else doesn't matter because this is one goddamn nice piece of steak.

...

Yeah, you're right. We're stretching this whole analogy. I just really want to get some nice and juicy steak right now.

Antiwhippy · (Today, 09:05 AM)

Originally Posted by BomberMouse

People seem to miss the point. Game library is fine but it's only enjoyable as the machine to experience them.

I disagree with this, but if that's your opinion that's fine. The only time where it would be true for me is if the controls of the machine impact the game, and the only time I felt that was with kid icarus.

KHlover · (Today, 09:06 AM)

Originally Posted by SmokyDave

You can use it with buttons and the d-pad.

Thanks, I exclusively use it via touch and never even bothered to try otherwise. Touch works very well.

Skilletor · (Today, 09:06 AM)

Reads list of complaints.

Goes back to playing Zelda: LBW.

Somehow isn't bothered by list of complaints.

NewGame · (Today, 09:07 AM)

OP what games have you played on it? Have you downloaded a few titles?

hongcha · (Today, 09:07 AM)

OP: I like the ergonomics of the XL. Feels really nice in my hands. I also like the design of the console. The rest of your complaints are valid and they bother me too. However, there is a large amount of superb, exclusive games available on the system. And I really like the 3D on some games which you can't get on any other system. So for me, the good outweighs the bad.

TheFLYINGManga_Ka · (Today, 09:08 AM)

You could have the best damn system in the world but have no games it's just a expensive brick.

MrCookiepants · (Today, 09:09 AM)

Originally Posted by Alienous

Hmm. I couldn't name 5 'good' 3DS titles myself.

Fire Emblem: Awakening, Luigi's Manion 2, Animal Crossing: New Leaf, Pokemon X/Y, Zelda: ALBW.

All MUST haves. All released this year.

Spaghetti · (Today, 09:10 AM)

yes but do you like puzzle pieces

gwarm01 · (Today, 09:12 AM)

The point of the 3DS is purely the games. This is classic Nintendo. Their hardware is questionable, their OS is archaic, but damn it they make great games. Never buy Nintendo hardware for anything else.

Aiustis · (Today, 09:15 AM)

I came to the 3ds from a vita so I get a lot of what the op is saying. I think the 3ds needs rounder corners because they can get bothersome. But I really love the circle pad. I could never play more than 2 or 3 hours on my psp or vita because analogue and nubs hurt my thumb.

But it's comfortable enough and I look to game systems for their games rather than the extras. And it's got most of the games I'm interested in.

addik · (Today, 09:16 AM)

This might be, in a way, derailing the thread, but I really don't know where I could ask.

I am aware of some of the problems of the 3DS, but not really specific problems. Thing is, I am planning to get a 3DS this Christmas, but I'm not sure whether I should get the original 3DS model, or the 2DS. I can probably get the original model for a little bit more expensive than the 2DS, but I get 3D along with it. However, it would be a bitch to buy it because I have to go to independent stores found in more sketchy parts of the town (well, not exactly, but it's still a ways to buy it).

I can buy the 2DS for a little bit cheaper (maybe around like $10 cheaper max so it's not a big deal really) almost everywhere, but I am afraid that the lack of 2DS will affect my experience of some games which really rely on the 3D (like Professor Layton, I heard). I'm not a big fan of 3D, but I wouldn't wanna miss out on a game that creatively and successfully implements it.

Tl;dr: Is the 2DS better than the 3DS?

Persona7 · 09:32 AM

I got one when it was on sale and I played Shadow Wars and Petit Computer for a while and then it basically sat in a drawer until SMT4 and Fire Emblem came out but I didn't like either game. I might get Zelda if it gets a sale price over the holiday.

FireSol · (Today, 09:18 AM)

I can understand how OP feels. In term of games, if you not rise on nintendo systems 3ds in not the best choice for you. I bought my 3d this spring and most of the time it just lie in my bag. I had Zelda:OoT, I have to agree it a great game, but for person that didnt follow Link quest from the beginning it not so entertaining. MH3 is good, but 2nd analog is must have to this game. Mario 3Dland - i think is the best game i've played on my 3ds, great lvl design, sounds, ect. Also I imported DS versions of SMT: Devil Survivor not complete them, yet but like them. Still wanna try Paperd Mario and Luigi's Mansion 2. In my opinion the worst part of the 3ds is region lock, Im from Russia and only few retailers here sell 3ds games and accessories, game import will same me, but this is never gonna happend

BGBW · (Today, 09:19 AM)

I tap an icon and I start a game, or I can just hit A. That's about all I care about the OS side of things.

What else are we doing with a games console that requires a more complicated OS?

Madouu · (Today, 09:20 AM)

Originally Posted by addik

This might be, in a way, derailing the thread, but I really don't know where I could ask.

I am aware of some of the problems of the 3DS, but not really specific problems. Thing is, I am planning to get a 3DS this Christmas, but I'm not sure whether I should get the original 3DS model, or the 2DS. I can probably get the original model for a little bit more expensive than the 2DS, but I get 3D along with it. However, it would be a bitch to buy it because I have to go to independent stores found in more sketchy parts of the town (well, not exactly, but it's still a ways to buy it).

I can buy the 2DS for a little bit cheaper (maybe around like $10 cheaper max so it's not a big deal really) almost everywhere, but I am afraid that the lack of 2DS will affect my experience of some games which really rely on the 3D (like Professor Layton, I heard). I'm not a big fan of 3D, but I wouldn't wanna miss out on a game that creatively and successfully implements it.

Tl;dr: Is the 2DS better than the 3DS?

I can only answer regarding the 3D. I think you'd be missing out on part of the experience in a few games such as 3D Land, Luigi's Mansion 2 and A Link Between Worlds. I hear the 3D in Bravely Default is one of the best too. I think if you are interested in these games you might want a 3DS rather than a 2DS.

As far as ergonomics are concerned 2DS wins handily.

Tan · (Today, 09:23 AM)

Agree with everything but none of that interferes with the wonderful library of games it has. Except the scratchy touch screen I guess. Kid Icarus ruined that thing :(

Margalis · (Today, 09:23 AM)

Originally Posted by BGBW

I tap an icon and I start a game, or I can just hit A. That's about all I care about the OS side of things.

What else are we doing with a games console that requires a more complicated OS?

Yeah...I honestly don't get it. It's not a "convergence device" or a phone, there's really nothing to do with the UI other than launch games. Why do I care about the UI or multitasking?

lexi · 09:27 AM

It seems like people just can't accept criticism of the 3DS with about 3 fucking million 'it's the games!' replies.

As a platform agnostic PC gamer, I wanted to invest in a portable gaming system earlier this year and was truly open to both systems. My initial thoughts were I would be swayed to the 3DS because I grew up with Nintendo consoles and consoles and am very fond of their games.

In the end I could not in good conscience buy a 3DS. It failed in so many areas that the Vita excels in, the value proposition was awful.

The region locking, no account system, expensive as hell eShop (Australia getting fucked occurs on PSN too, but at least it's dead easy to use the US store), poor pixel density and archaic OS and online infrastructure were each individual deal breakers, let alone all of them simultaneously.

I speak purely from value proposition. If I had more disposable income this wouldn't be an issue for me and I'd have a 3DS and be enjoying it's spectacular library.

I just wanted to add this to rebuke those who only ever say 'it's about the games'.

FlynnCL · (Today, 09:24 AM)

Originally Posted by BGBW

I tap an icon and I start a game, or I can just hit A. That's about all I care about the OS side of things.

What else are we doing with a games console that requires a more complicated OS?

This is basically my situation too.

I don't have any standards for the 3DS's OS functionalities as I have my Nexus 7 with me at most times.

When I'm using the 3DS, I turn it on, and then I boot into a game. I don't particularly care about much else.

Region Lock sucks, though.

stilgar · (Today, 09:25 AM)

Originally Posted by lexi

It seems like people just can't accept criticism of the 3DS with about 3 fucking million 'it's the games!' replies.

As a platform agnostic PC gamer, I wanted to invest in a portable gaming system earlier this year and was truly open to both systems. My initial thoughts were I would be swayed to the 3DS because I grew up with Nintendo condoles and consoles and am very fond of their games.

In the end I could not in good conscience buy a 3DS. It failed in so many areas that the Vita excels in, the value proposition was awful.

The region locking, no account system, expensive as hell eShop (Australia getting fucked occurs on PSN too, but at least it's dead easy to use the US store), poor pixel density and archaic OS and online infrastructure were each individual deal breakers, let alone all of them simultaneously.

I speak purely from value proposition. If I had more disposable income this wouldn't be an issue for me and I'd have a 3DS and be enjoying it's spectacular library.

I just wanted to add this to rebuke those who only ever say 'it's about the games'.

I don't get how the games do not account for the "value proposition" .

lexi · (Today, 09:27 AM)

Cause they cost $70. This isn't an issue on the vita thanks to easy access to US store and PS+.

Atram · (Today, 09:28 AM)

Originally Posted by lexi

It seems like people just can't accept criticism of the 3DS with about 3 fucking million 'it's the games!' replies.

As a platform agnostic PC gamer, I wanted to invest in a portable gaming system earlier this year and was truly open to both systems. My initial thoughts were I would be swayed to the 3DS because I grew up with Nintendo condoles and consoles and am very fond of their games.

In the end I could not in good conscience buy a 3DS. It failed in so many areas that the Vita excels in, the value proposition was awful.

The region locking, no account system, expensive as hell eShop (Australia getting fucked occurs on PSN too, but at least it's dead easy to use the US store), poor pixel density and archaic OS and online infrastructure were each individual deal breakers, let alone all of them simultaneously.

I speak purely from value proposition. If I had more disposable income this wouldn't be an issue for me and I'd have a 3DS and be enjoying it's spectacular library.

I just wanted to add this to rebuke those who only ever say 'it's about the games'.

I think the most people buy Systems to Play Games and not because "oh the Hardware is so nice". Yes the 3DS has some OS issues and looks more like a Toy, but in the end what matters are the games.

For sure having both is the Jackpot.

fredrancour · (Today, 09:28 AM)

Originally Posted by lexi

It seems like people just can't accept criticism of the 3DS with about 3 fucking million 'it's the games!' replies.

As a platform agnostic PC gamer, I wanted to invest in a portable gaming system earlier this year and was truly open to both systems. My initial thoughts were I would be swayed to the 3DS because I grew up with Nintendo condoles and consoles and am very fond of their games.

In the end I could not in good conscience buy a 3DS. It failed in so many areas that the Vita excels in, the value proposition was awful.

The region locking, no account system, expensive as hell eShop (Australia getting fucked occurs on PSN too, but at least it's dead easy to use the US store), poor pixel density and archaic OS and online infrastructure were each individual deal breakers, let alone all of them simultaneously.

I speak purely from value proposition. If I had more disposable income this wouldn't be an issue for me and I'd have a 3DS and be enjoying it's spectacular library.

I just wanted to add this to rebuke those who only ever say 'it's about the games'.

It's a value proposition for the "it's the games!" people too. The benefits the vita offers merely complement games and cannot replace them.

TechnicPuppet · (Today, 09:29 AM)

It had great games and often decent demos.

You buy a game for 30 and can still it for 27 months later.

I wish it had a better account system and that prices of eshop classic games were fairer but it's still a fantastic device.

BGBW · (Today, 09:29 AM)

Originally Posted by lexi

I just wanted to add this to rebuke those who only ever say 'it's about the games'.

Well most people buy game systems for the games since that's what they are going to spend 95% of the time using it for. Not saying you're points are invalid, but there is nothing wrong with the "it's about the games" argument.

stilgar · (Today, 09:30 AM)

Originally Posted by lexi

Cause they cost $70. This isn't an issue on the vita thanks to easy access to US store and PS+.

This explains everything. And 70$,wat

orborborb · 09:52 AM

I love my (original) 3DS not just for the games but for the 3D effect quality, the sound quality, the portability, the control reliability (hundreds and hundreds of hours of use, plays just like new, and the slide pad is the best portable analog control of any portable gaming device), and yes even the OS, it's not as powerful as an iOS/android/windows device obviously but I like Nintendo's Wii U and 3DS OS way more than the Sony and Microsoft's OSes. Nintendo's customizable icon grid keeps the focus on the apps and games, and all the shopping and social features are actually fun to play around with instead of feeling like corporate mandates. Tons of nice little touches like the rabbit who tries to sell on you on the new streetpass games or the unwrapping presents and how much they want you to doodle things on the touchscreen. Nintendo's OSes have very nice virtual keyboards as well, I prefer them over iOS honestly.

Battery life is annoying though, and the unpleasant glossy plastic surface on the original 3DS at least I will also agree with.