PixlBit

 

On August 28 Nintendo announced a new handheld called the 2DS, a 3DS with the 3D effect function removed. Since its announcement people’s reactions were just as expected: trolls and claims of desperation, among other things. I was actually shocked for a moment when I saw the announcement but then I have been giving it a bit of thought. 

Going Two Dimensional

People have already argued that you could just turn off the 3D effect by putting the slider down or by the options in the settings. The target consumer, however, is actually a much younger audience without a 3DS. With the warning label on the side of the box some parents have been concerned about the possibility of eye damage. With the removal of the 3D feature parents might reconsider buying a 2DS unit for their kids with much worry. 

Remodeled for Kids

There has been a common complaint on the redesign of the shell, mainly on removing hinges and giving it a wedge tablet look. While this does leave the screens vulnerable to scratches and make it difficult to fit in your pocket it does remove the risk of breaking the hinges, making better use of Nintendium by making the console slanted enough to play on a flat surface. The new design does come with a flaw with certain games that requires the DS to close, though there may be a work around. On release there will be a special case made for the 2DS so the screens won’t get scratched but the necessary accessory will be sold separately at the price of $12.99. According to a reviewer the screens will have a similar size as the original 3DS model so you can fit screen protectors already made on it. 

Economic Brand

Even with price drops the 3DS and 3DS XL have been expensive at the prices of $169.99 and $199.99 respectfully. With the redesign and removal of the 3D feature not only do we find out that that 3D effect costs about $40 but gives the 2DS the price tag of $129.99, a small significant difference from the 3DS’. The reasoning behind the lower cost is to match the price drop of the Nintendo Wii U, making the newest Nintendo consoles affordable to families with tight budgets. 

Releasing the 2DS with Pokemon X & Y

Slating the 2DS release date along with the upcoming and highly anticipated Pokemon X & Y is a bit of marketing genius. While most Pokemon fans already have a 3DS there are a few who have a hard time making the upgrade from the DS, whether it be the original or the DSi series. Having the 2DS released with Generation VI could make this a one-stop purchase from fans trying to upgrade to potential consumers for the series. Another seller point, though very cosmetic, is that the first two outer colors for the 2DS match those of the game versions, pushing the Pokemon promotion further. 

Final Conclusion 

While I believe the 2DS might have a chance to sell well there are people who will believe otherwise. Consumers and critics will point out flaws ranging from the hardware issues to bad timing but it can still find an audience. Aside from the younger audience and Pokemon fans there are always casual gamers who have yet to own a 3DS let alone the techies who tend to get the latest device. But the answer to whether or not the new addition to the Nintendo gaming system will sell will have to wait until October 12.