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new nintendo 2ds xl comes out july 28 $149
- Thread starter TheGamingBox
- Start date
Fusilli Craig
Member
I'm glad to know I wasn't crazy for thinking I saw it at $179.99. When I had eventually resolved to ordering it was back up to $199.99 and, while it's only $20, it seems like just enough sticker shock to throw me off.
If there are 3DS games that interest you then yeah, definitely go for it. Lots to be had for cheap at this point.
Okami Haundo
Member
It is indeed! Just give them a call and they'll gladly help you out. I think it takes a few days for them to fully remove your account from the old system, but they'll let you know when the process is done. I did this a few times and they just asked for some basic info like one of the last games I bought digitally.
It depends how much free gaming time you have, but the system itself is definitely worth it.
NOLA_Gaffer
Banned
Definitely. The 3DS is wall-to-wall great software and if you roll in DS backwards compatibility it gets even better.
However if the 3D screen interests you, $10 more will get you a Refurbished New 3DS XL from Nintendo.
NintendosBooger
Member
You're not paying 150 for the tech.
NinjaCoachZ
Member
It's just a cheaper alternative if you don't care about 3D.
Danjin44
The nicest person on this forum
Oh okay, I guess this is more for people who never owned 3DS.
NinjaCoachZ
Member
Yeah, basically. It's an end-of-life thing for people who want the perks of a New 3DS without having to shell out too badly. One last attempt to get some mileage out of the hardware, convince some regular 2DS owners to make the upgrade, make the New models' improvements more accessible to everyone.
Yep, it is basically just a New 3DS without 2D. It'll play SNES games, Xenoblade, Hyrule Warriors will actually run well, you name it.
TheGamingBox
Banned
yes
Hot diggity daffodil. It makes more sense now. I like my n3ds xl but I could see the appeal for others
Danjin44
The nicest person on this forum
Here is the thing, other than Xenoblade Chronicles and improve texture on Monster Hunter games, Nintendo haven't really put that extra power in good use. Should regular 2DS owners really need to upgrade?
Some games run better, like Hyrule Warriors and Sun/Moon, plus you can play the SNES VC games. Minor improvements for sure, but they're nice to have.
You also get the XL screens but a form factor similar to the regular n3DS which is awesome, and it is really comfy. If you like your normal 2DS, don't care about the minor CPU stuff, the upgrade is solely on the screens and pocketability.
You also get the XL screens but a form factor similar to the regular n3DS which is awesome, and it is really comfy. If you like your normal 2DS, don't care about the minor CPU stuff, the upgrade is solely on the screens and pocketability.
NinjaCoachZ
Member
I think it's more about encouraging people to move on from the regular 3DS and treating the New improvements/features as what everyone should be getting, whenever possible. Not all of it is life-altering to the point that you're missing out if you have a regular 3DS, but once you have the New, it's hard to go back, know what I mean?
Super-stable 3D is a big improvement, SNES games are totally worth it, and having a built-in amiibo reader is handy too. Nintendo are probably pretty happy about the latter two from a business perspective because then A) They have more games to sell, and B) By making it easier for people to use amiibos, they're more likely to buy amiibos. The clamshell design of the New XL might also make it easier for people to carry it in their pockets. The improvements just add up to the point that it's an enticing upgrade, and having it be relatively cheap helps with that.
Putting a new 3ds xl with an IPS panel and this new 2ds side by side and the screen differences are far more noticeable than I was expecting. I don't know if it's the panel difference or what, but the colors are a little richer on the 3ds. And of course with the 2ds TN screen the viewing angles wash out quickly.
Really surprised none of the 2ds review articles I read brought it up. I guess there was a panel lottery with the 3DS? I guess if you didn't have IPS before you wouldn't notice, I dunno
Really surprised none of the 2ds review articles I read brought it up. I guess there was a panel lottery with the 3DS? I guess if you didn't have IPS before you wouldn't notice, I dunno
TheSadRanger
Banned
I also find that the lighter weight is better for playing JRPG's which require long play sessions. I had tried a friends new 3dsxl before and didn't like how top heavy it is. After a while I start getting wrist cramps that I don't get with the 2DSXL.
I think the 2DSXL is a better system for long play session games like Fire Emblem or DQVII-VIII simply because of how light it is. Those games don't really use the 3D that much anyways so your not really sacrificing anything.
There's an argument for Bravely Default since some of the towns and battle screens were designed around 3D. However Dragon Quest only really uses it on the battle screens which are so frequent it's better to just turn off, Fire Emblem only really uses it on the maps themselves which is better to turn off anyways since you zoom in and out constantly to see positioning. I haven't played any of the SMT games on it or Etrian Odyssey so I can't really comment on those.
The speakers are a mixed bag, on SNES VC games the speakers are super low. I've played DKC2 and Earthbound on it and I can barely hear the BGM cranked all the way up. Yet on actual 3DS games it seems just fine.
World SkiFree
Member
I have the original 2DS but may get the 2DS XL down the line. I'm new to the DS/3DS scene in general. All of these impressions are appreciated.
Really loving the 3DS game library. As an aside, I bought a few DS games; it seems the "modern" 3DS games don't overuse the touch screen mechanics as much as the DS. I'm guessing the DS was a bit of a bridge between Palm Pilots and smartphones where the touch screen was very novel. 3DS seems to embrace the concept of using the bottom screen for maps, inventory and secondary buttons more, which I really like. But this may be just a product of the games I play, not a real reflection of the differences in the 3DS/DS catalogs.
A random, one-off question: I was interested in getting the 3DS Classics version of Excitebike. Can someone confirm if that game save high scores (or best times)? I saw a button for "Records" on a video walkthrough but I can't find confirmation via google fu. I love time trial/score attack stuff with racing games so I was very curious about the best times feature.
Really loving the 3DS game library. As an aside, I bought a few DS games; it seems the "modern" 3DS games don't overuse the touch screen mechanics as much as the DS. I'm guessing the DS was a bit of a bridge between Palm Pilots and smartphones where the touch screen was very novel. 3DS seems to embrace the concept of using the bottom screen for maps, inventory and secondary buttons more, which I really like. But this may be just a product of the games I play, not a real reflection of the differences in the 3DS/DS catalogs.
A random, one-off question: I was interested in getting the 3DS Classics version of Excitebike. Can someone confirm if that game save high scores (or best times)? I saw a button for "Records" on a video walkthrough but I can't find confirmation via google fu. I love time trial/score attack stuff with racing games so I was very curious about the best times feature.
NintendosBooger
Member
Can someone compare the sturdiness and quality of the 2DS XL compared to N3DS XL?
I've read impressions that the former feels cheaper, plastic-y?
I've read impressions that the former feels cheaper, plastic-y?
Plinko
Wildcard berths that can't beat teams without a winning record should have homefield advantage
I can confirm this. It is much lighter but has sort of a hollow feel to it. N3DSXL is much more solid.
Also, not a fan of the design due to the buttons leaving marks on the edge of the screen when it is closed. Mind-boggling how that is not caught or just flatout ignored.
My family has a N3DS XL, N3DS, OG 3DS XL, and now a 2DS XL. The 2DS XL feels much lighter than the N3DS XL, which is a big plus for me for longer play sessions and general comfort.
Regarding the build quality compared to the N3DS XL:
- As mentioned, the lighter weight of the 2DS XL gives it a less dense feel, if that makes any sense, which could contribute to the "cheaper feel" comments.
- My 2DS XL's top screen has the same amount of wobble as our N3DS XL top screen. It's not any worse.
- I really like the feel of the plastic on the 2DS XL top screen, it has a good matte textured feel. The plastic on the bottom feels good to me, but it does feel cheaper than the bottom of the N3DS XL.
- The location of the cart and memory card slot on the 2DS XL is a huge improvement over N3DS XL and N3DS versions imo. No more taking off the back cover.
- While I haven't had issues with the sound on the 2DS XL, with the volume turned up I can feel the sound through the back of the console. Of course that doesn't happen on the N3DS XL because of the speaker placements.
- The top screen of the 2DS XL "looks" like an iphone screen in shape and appearance (not screen quality). It's a good look. Mine is a TN panel (top and bottom). Our N3DS XL has an IPS top, and there's definitely a difference in quality. I have noticed that the left thumb stick on the 2DS XL will leave slight smudges on the top screen outside the viewing area on the left. It wipes right off, but I thought I would mention it.
NintendosBooger
Member
Thanks, guys.
One more question: Let's say you didn't own either system (2DS XL or N3DS XL), if both were on sale for the same price and 3D didn't matter to you, which would you buy? I suppose it comes down to form factor.
One more question: Let's say you didn't own either system (2DS XL or N3DS XL), if both were on sale for the same price and 3D didn't matter to you, which would you buy? I suppose it comes down to form factor.
Plinko
Wildcard berths that can't beat teams without a winning record should have homefield advantage
Same price? N3DSXL. It feels sturdier.
If it were me, at the same price, I'd probably go with the N3DS XL. It will have 3D in case you ever wanted to use it. It may also come with an IPS top panel. The build quality differences wouldn't sway me either way. I think they're both good for what they are.
Spukc
always chasing the next thrill
AndyMoogle
Member
I got one on the release day. The screen wobble is completely exaggerated. It's barely noticeable compared to my N3DSXL; which is very wobbly.
Overall it's pretty good. I don't really like the cooler colors on the screens though. The warm colors on my N3DSXL are certainly easier on the eyes. Also, the sound quality is clearly worse. Other than that it's an improvement, imo.
Overall it's pretty good. I don't really like the cooler colors on the screens though. The warm colors on my N3DSXL are certainly easier on the eyes. Also, the sound quality is clearly worse. Other than that it's an improvement, imo.
Spukc
always chasing the next thrill
You can add the ds library to it as well.
AndyMoogle
Member
Not worse colors exactly. Warm vs cool is just a preference. You can get used to either after a while.
I prefer the lighter weight and the general feel of the handheld. The SD card placement is obviously much better.
autoduelist
Member
Can someone help me figure what device I should get?
These are my priorities:
1) Price. I want it cheap. Used [as long as screen isn't scratched] is fine. Refurb is fine.
2) Plays 3ds games. I don't need them in 3D. I am interested in rpgs, I doubt any need 3d.
EDIT: Real #3: BATTERY LIFE. I briefly owned a 3ds and sold it quickly because it was always dead whenever I went to play it. Never actually played a game. [I'm spoiled by being able to leave my vita on a shelf for a week and it still holding a near full charge].
3) Size of screen... I like big. But not so big it affects #1 considerably.
4) I don't keep it in my pocket, it doesn't need to fold up or anything.
Based on that, I think I just want a used 2ds? I think?
These are my priorities:
1) Price. I want it cheap. Used [as long as screen isn't scratched] is fine. Refurb is fine.
2) Plays 3ds games. I don't need them in 3D. I am interested in rpgs, I doubt any need 3d.
EDIT: Real #3: BATTERY LIFE. I briefly owned a 3ds and sold it quickly because it was always dead whenever I went to play it. Never actually played a game. [I'm spoiled by being able to leave my vita on a shelf for a week and it still holding a near full charge].
3) Size of screen... I like big. But not so big it affects #1 considerably.
4) I don't keep it in my pocket, it doesn't need to fold up or anything.
Based on that, I think I just want a used 2ds? I think?
hardcastlemccormick
Banned
Does the N3DSXL have that issue where the bottom screen frame will scratch the top screen? I have an OG 3DS and I'm really glad I bought screen protectors, the scratches are quite bad.
If you want a new or refurb, get a refurb 2ds off of Nintendo's website. Else, you might be able to get a used non-New 3DS XL for cheap.
They all have the same shitty battery life afaik.
NOLA_Gaffer
Banned
Battery life on the entire 3DS line is fairly terrible. Make sure you turn off wifi to save as much battery life as possible.
If you don't mind the smaller screens, it seems like the 2DS is what you're looking for. It fits all your criteria but the screen size.
Nintendo sells them cheap refurbished.
World SkiFree
Member
As an owner of the standard 2DS, I'm very impressed with what it offers. The hinge concerns on the other builds gives me some appreciation in having the "slab" build of the 2DS. Wouldn't mind having 3D option and larger screen but not sure HOW interested I am. I really need to just try out one of clamshell 3DS builds, assuming stores still have demo stations (haven't looked in awhile).
As I posted earlier, it is simply nice having access to the 3DS catalog, even with the lowest priced entry point.
As I posted earlier, it is simply nice having access to the 3DS catalog, even with the lowest priced entry point.
hardcastlemccormick
Banned
I'm in largely the same boat with an OG 3DS. I've done a reversal on my dislike of large handhelds so I want an XL. But I'm not that excited about the upgrades in relation to the price. They're nice, but I could just keep playing on my little OG. It kinda sucks sometimes but I'm still enjoying the games.
NinjaCoachZ
Member
Cheapest option is a refurbished 2DS from Nintendo. $60 for the system itself, $80 for a Mario Kart 7 bundle.
https://store.nintendo.com/ng3/browse/subcategory.jsp?categoryId=cat750772
Since you like RPGs, if you're interested in Xenoblade and haven't played it before, it's definitely worth considering that it's New 3DS exclusive. If you have a Wii or Wii U though, then you're already covered and the 2DS would probably be the best option.
ClayKavalier
Banned
Usually demo units don't really let you test the hinge. Like most Targets have a demo N3DSXL but the security contraption attached to them don't allow the hinge to move at all.
BodiesWithoutOrgans
Member
Which is better NEW 2DS XL or NEW 3DS the smaller one
New 3DS for the faceplates. But the New 2DS XL is great as well if you don't care about 3D support in games (like the Sega 3D Classic Collection titles, the 3D Classics Nintendo line, and of course 3D in most games) and want a more comfortable system (The new3DS isn't uncomfortable at all to me but the New 2DS XL feels nicer due to how big it is)
Since they're about the same cost, I would go with what makes more sense to you. Are you interested in 3D support and does the price difference make much of a difference to you?
Plinko
Wildcard berths that can't beat teams without a winning record should have homefield advantage
No. I have (or had, before it died a few weeks ago) the Majora's Mask New 3DSXL since launch and there isn't a scratch on the screens, and I didn't use a screen protector.
CloudStrife_ca
Member
It looks great and everything, dont get me wrong but I have several 3DS's not to mention several of the "New" 3DS's with Amiibo support, c-stick. I just don't think I'll be picking one up, as looking nice and being new isn't enough to make me run out and part with my money.
NinjaCoachZ
Member
N2DSXL is basically a thinner New 3DS without 2D or custom faceplates. If you want a regular New 3DS you'd better hurry because it's not in production anymore. You might be able to get certain models of the regular New 3DS for a similar price as the 2DSXL but that'd probably have to be secondhand.
NOLA_Gaffer
Banned
I don't understand, were you previously compelled to buy every 3DS that was released? Most folks generally buy one 3DS and that's good enough.
Narpas Sword0
Member
This is so, so stupid
autoduelist
Member
Thanks all for the answers. Sounds lik ethis is what I need. I don't care about Mario at all, so the cheaper system is likely best for me.
I -do- have Xenoblade on my 'wish' list... and don't have a Wii or Wii U.... hrm.
Are wii's cheap nowadays? Do they still play gamecube games? I sold my wii [wish i kept it] when the wii-u came out, then never got a wii u... and I miss being able to play gamecube games. But i seem to remember hearing wiis stopped playing gamecube games? Man, I don't pay attention to nintendo so feel so out of the loop and there are so many products.
but if i rebought a wii, i'm correct in thinking i could play gamecube games and xenoblade? maybe i'll do that. but i also need a 2ds.
garr. money.