It’s been years for the reason that New Nintendo 2DS XL rolled off manufacturing traces, however in 2025, this dual-screen handheld is seeing one thing of a second golden age. What started as a budget-friendly different to the 3DS has advanced right into a retro gaming staple with endurance that outshines a few of its extra highly effective successors. With its sturdy sport library, ergonomic design, and vibrant secondhand modding scene, the New 2DS XL stays some of the beloved handheld consoles nonetheless in play in the present day.
A Good Stability of Energy and Affordability
Launched in 2017, the New Nintendo 2DS XL hit a candy spot for a lot of players. It packed the processing upgrades of the New 3DS line—like quicker load instances, improved 3D rendering (regardless of missing a 3D show), and added shoulder buttons—whereas ditching the dearer stereoscopic display tech. The end result? A strong, light-weight, foldable system that was simple to hold, simple to play, and didn’t break the financial institution.
Quick ahead to 2025, and that very same worth proposition has solely improved. New 2DS XL models are now not produced, however their worth on the used market has remained regular and even elevated for uncommon editions. Whether or not you’re selecting one up for round $100 or stumbling throughout a particular version just like the Poké Ball or Hylian Defend fashions, you’re getting a console that also delivers an distinctive handheld expertise—particularly in comparison with in the present day’s rising costs in gaming.
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The Greatest Sport Library Nintendo Ever Constructed?
One of many largest causes players nonetheless flock to the 2DS XL is its compatibility. This handheld performs each Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS video games, which suggests you’re entry to over 4,000 titles—starting from blockbusters to hidden gems. Highlights from the 3DS library embrace:
- The Legend of Zelda: A Hyperlink Between Worlds
- Hearth Emblem: Awakening
- Pokémon X, Y, Solar, and Moon
- Tremendous Mario 3D Land
- Animal Crossing: New Leaf
- Monster Hunter Generations
After which there’s the DS library, a goldmine of distinctive, touch-based gameplay experiences like:
- Pokémon Black/White and HeartGold/SoulSilver
- The World Ends With You
- Advance Wars: Twin Strike
- Radiant Historia
- Elite Beat Brokers
Many of those titles have by no means been ported to newer programs, making the New 2DS XL one of many solely methods to expertise them with out emulation.
Nonetheless a Pleasure to Use in 2025
Whereas it doesn’t have the uncooked energy of a Nintendo Swap or Steam Deck, the New 2DS XL continues to be some of the snug handhelds ever made. It weighs simply 260g, matches properly in your fingers, and has a clamshell design that protects the screens from scratches—one thing sorely lacking on many fashionable portables.
It additionally consists of options you wouldn’t count on from a funds gadget: NFC help for Amiibo, built-in parental controls, a stylus for touchscreen precision, and microSD card help for simple storage enlargement. Although the unique Nintendo eShop has been shut down as of 2024, bodily cartridges are plentiful, and new discoveries maintain popping up in thrift shops, flea markets, and on-line listings.
The Rise of the Modding Neighborhood
With the top of official updates and help, the 2DS XL modding scene has exploded. Fans proceed to create customized firmware that unlocks new capabilities, from region-free sport loading to retro console emulation. In 2025, it’s simpler than ever to put in homebrew instruments, play translated Japanese exclusives, or use apps that again up sport saves and cargo titles from an SD card.
On-line guides and energetic boards maintain the scene alive, with step-by-step directions even for freshmen. For a lot of, the 2DS XL has turn out to be a DIY retro handheld—providing a authorized, sensible option to revisit Nintendo’s most interesting handheld period.
A Nostalgia Machine With Actual Utility
For millennials and Gen Z players who grew up on the DS and 3DS, the New 2DS XL isn’t only a enjoyable throwback—it’s a bodily hyperlink to childhood. The second you hear the boot-up chime or faucet the stylus on the touchscreen, all of it comes speeding again. And but, it’s greater than only a nostalgia journey. Not like many retro consoles, the 2DS XL continues to be sensible: it’s transportable, inexpensive, and performs an enormous swath of beloved video games that maintain up extremely nicely in the present day.
Nonetheless Going Robust
In a world dominated by digital storefronts, day-one patches, and subscription-based sport libraries, the New Nintendo 2DS XL affords one thing refreshingly stable. You purchase a sport cartridge, you pop it in, and it simply works. Whether or not you’re a collector, a curious new participant, or a modder in search of your subsequent undertaking, the 2DS XL continues to ship actual worth in 2025.
Nintendo might have moved on, however tens of millions of players haven’t—and with good cause. The New 2DS XL isn’t simply related in 2025; it’s important for anybody who values handheld gaming finished proper.
Key Takeaways
- The New Nintendo 2DS XL performs all Nintendo 3DS video games in 2D format whereas that includes a foldable design not like the unique 2DS.
- With a 4.88-inch display and weighing solely 260 grams, the system balances display dimension with portability for snug gaming.
- System updates have added vital options like Nintendo eShop entry, an Web browser, and improved SpotPass performance.
Design and Options Overview
The New Nintendo 2DS XL blends performance with portability in Nintendo’s handheld lineup. It affords a number of design enhancements whereas sustaining compatibility with the in depth 3DS sport library at a extra inexpensive worth level.
Clamshell Design and Aesthetics
The New Nintendo 2DS XL contains a clamshell design that considerably differentiates it from the wedge-shaped authentic 2DS. This folding design makes it extra pocket-friendly and offers higher display safety when closed.
Not like the New 3DS XL, the 2DS XL is lighter and slimmer whereas nonetheless sustaining massive twin screens. The microphone and digital camera have been relocated to the hinge space, making a cleaner total look.
The stylus is notably smaller than the one included with the New 3DS XL and lacks the telescoping function discovered within the authentic 3DS stylus. This extra compact design contributes to the system’s streamlined profile.
Nintendo included a number of colour choices for the 2DS XL, with contrasting prime and backside shell colours that give it a particular, playful look.
Efficiency and {Hardware} Enhancements
The New Nintendo 2DS XL shares the identical quicker CPU because the New 3DS XL, offering improved loading instances and higher efficiency in demanding video games. This improve is critical in comparison with the unique 2DS mannequin.
The system options the identical display decision as different programs within the household however makes use of TN show panels somewhat than the IPS panels present in some 3DS XL models. Whereas this helps maintain prices down, it could actually have an effect on viewing angles.
One welcome addition is the inclusion of a charger within the field, an merchandise that was notably absent from another 3DS household programs. This provides speedy worth for brand spanking new consumers.
The battery life stays spectacular, providing marathon gaming classes on a single cost—a key profit for transportable gaming.
Amiibo Assist and Close to-Subject Communication
The New Nintendo 2DS XL consists of built-in amiibo help via its near-field communication (NFC) reader. This function permits gamers to work together with Nintendo’s collectible figurines straight with no need a separate accent.
The NFC reader is positioned beneath the highest display, enabling customers to easily faucet their amiibo figures to unlock particular content material in appropriate video games. This performance brings the 2DS XL in keeping with different “New” Nintendo handheld programs.
Fashionable video games like Tremendous Smash Bros., Animal Crossing, and The Legend of Zelda titles profit from this integration, permitting gamers to unlock characters, objects, and particular options via amiibo interplay.
This addition represents a major improve from the unique 2DS, which required a separate NFC reader accent to help amiibo performance.
Comparative Evaluation Inside the Nintendo 3DS Household
The Nintendo 3DS household affords a number of totally different fashions with various options, designs, and capabilities. Every mannequin targets particular consumer wants whereas sustaining compatibility throughout the household.
Evaluating to the New Nintendo 3DS and 3DS XL
The New 2DS XL shares many options with its 3D counterparts. It has the identical display sizes because the New 3DS XL – a 4.88-inch prime display and a 4.18-inch contact display on the underside. Each units sport the clamshell design that protects the screens when closed.
The principle distinction is the dearth of 3D performance within the 2DS XL. This allowed Nintendo to supply a extra inexpensive choice whereas preserving the improved processing energy of the “New” line.
Not like the unique 2DS, which had a tablet-like design, the New 2DS XL folds just like the 3DS fashions. It consists of all the identical buttons and options of the New 3DS XL, together with the C-stick, ZL/ZR buttons, and amiibo help.
The New 2DS XL can also be lighter and slimmer than the New 3DS XL, making it extra transportable.
Backward Compatibility with DS Titles
All Nintendo 3DS household programs, together with the New 2DS XL, preserve full backward compatibility with Nintendo DS video games. This provides gamers entry to an enormous library of titles spanning a number of generations.
DS video games run natively on the 2DS XL with none scaling points. The system mechanically switches to DS mode when a DS cartridge is inserted.
The New 2DS XL additionally helps DSiWare titles that have been initially launched for the Nintendo DSi. This backward compatibility extends the lifetime of older video games and offers glorious worth for gamers.
DS video games show at their native decision on the New 2DS XL’s bigger screens. Whereas this implies they don’t fill your complete display, the picture high quality stays crisp and true to the unique expertise.
Place Inside the Nintendo Handheld Console Line
The New Nintendo 2DS XL occupies a novel center place in Nintendo’s handheld lineup. It serves as a bridge between the budget-friendly authentic 2DS and the premium New 3DS XL fashions.
Launched later within the 3DS household lifecycle, the New 2DS XL affords virtually all premium options of the New 3DS XL at a lower cost level. It targets gamers who don’t care about 3D however need entry to unique “New” titles.
These unique video games embrace Xenoblade Chronicles 3D and titles that profit from the improved processing energy. The New 2DS XL additionally options improved loading instances and efficiency in video games like Monster Hunter and Tremendous Smash Bros.
As one of many ultimate entries within the 3DS household earlier than Nintendo shifted focus to the Swap, the New 2DS XL represents a refined fruits of the DS/3DS {hardware} evolution.
Often Requested Questions
Many Nintendo followers have questions in regards to the New Nintendo 2DS XL system. Listed below are solutions to some widespread questions on this transportable gaming gadget.
What’s the launch date for the brand new Nintendo 2DS XL?
The New Nintendo 2DS XL was launched on July 28, 2017. This handheld system was launched as a extra inexpensive different to the New Nintendo 3DS XL, providing comparable options with out the 3D show functionality.
The system turned out there in a number of areas concurrently, together with North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia.
The place can I discover a new Nintendo 2DS XL on the market?
As of March 2025, discovering a model new Nintendo 2DS XL has turn out to be difficult since Nintendo discontinued manufacturing. Potential consumers can verify retailers that also might need remaining inventory.
On-line marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, and Fb Market typically have pre-owned models out there. Some specialty sport shops might also carry refurbished or used models.
Gaming-focused retailers often get restricted portions of refurbished models straight from Nintendo.
What’s the present worth vary for the brand new Nintendo 2DS XL?
Within the present market, pre-owned New Nintendo 2DS XL programs sometimes vary from $120-$200 relying on situation, included video games, and equipment.
Restricted version fashions with particular designs can command larger costs, generally $250 or extra. Manufacturing unit refurbished models, when out there from official sources, are likely to value round $150-$170.
The worth has steadily elevated for the reason that system’s discontinuation resulting from its rising collector’s worth.
Which video games are appropriate with the brand new Nintendo 2DS XL?
The New Nintendo 2DS XL can play all Nintendo 3DS video games, although with out the 3D impact. It’s additionally backward appropriate with authentic Nintendo DS video games.
Some video games particularly designed for the “New” programs reap the benefits of the improved processing energy and extra controls. These titles might carry out higher on the New 2DS XL in comparison with authentic 2DS/3DS fashions.
The system offers entry to hundreds of video games spanning each the DS and 3DS libraries.
Is Nintendo persevering with the manufacturing of the New 2DS XL?
No, Nintendo formally discontinued manufacturing of your complete 3DS household, together with the New Nintendo 2DS XL, in September 2020. This choice got here as Nintendo shifted focus to its Swap console line.
The corporate now not manufactures new models of any 3DS or 2DS programs. Software program help has additionally been considerably diminished, with the Nintendo eShop for 3DS ceasing most operations in March 2023.
Does Nintendo supply restore providers for the 2DS programs?
Nintendo has steadily phased out restore providers for the 2DS/3DS household of programs in most areas. As of March 2025, official restore choices are extraordinarily restricted or unavailable in lots of nations.
Some third-party restore outlets specialise in fixing Nintendo handhelds. These providers can handle widespread points like damaged screens, battery replacements, and button malfunctions.
For minor points, DIY restore guides and elements can be found on-line for technically inclined house owners.