The new Nintendo 2DS XL is the sixth generation of the 3DS family of handheld consoles. It is the simplified version of the new Nintendo 3DS XL. It may not have the capability of three-dimensional display like most of its siblings does, it is a nice upgrade from the 2DS and 3DS models with its updated processors, additional controls, and Amiibo support.
This console costs US$149.99 which was first released in Japan and South Korean on 13 July. The new Nintendo 2DS XL is due for release in Australia and New Zealand on 15 July and in North America and Europe on 28 July. Here is a review roundup of what critics think of the new Nintendo 2DS XL so far.
Design
Pocket Gamer lauds Nintendo for the new 2DS XL's design, which is so far the best in the 3DS family. The top panel is made out of textured panel encircled with shiny plastic, which might be intended for kids, is something that adults will love. Overall, the console "is a very comfortable device."
Display
Talking about the display, Destructoid finds the placement of control buttons on the console faulty. The Circle Pad, C-Stick, and face buttons press up against the upper display, resulting to abrasions on the screen. This is a similar problem that the original 3DS users are all familiar with.
Processor
IGN particularly favoured the console over the new 3DS XL in terms of power. With its new processor, the new 2DS XL can load up hefty games faster than its predecessor; not to mention, the new console can compete well against 3DS XL when it comes to frame rate.
Freebies
The new 2DS XL comes with a 4-gigabyte Toshiba microSDHC memory card which can accommodate around five games. For reference, Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon are 3.2 gigabytes; The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D plays around 650 megabytes; Mario Kart 7 weighs 1 gigabyte. The console's key takeaway is the AC charger and the NFC reader for Amiibo support. Gamespot said there is a lot to like about this console despite its "wobbly top screen and old tech."
Wrap up
So far, the new 2DS XL is a pretty decent console that every Nintendo fan will enjoy. At US$149.99, buyers will get a bang for the buck with this console.
