Nintendo 2DS XL?

hi all

I was looking at getting a switch, my mind is shifting to a 2DS XL though given the games library advantage. Perhaps waiting out on Nintendo's new offering for another 2/3 years. As someone that only just bought an xbox 4 months ago so and rarely uses it, i just want something to play with every couple of weeks/plane etc.

My concern though is the pricing still seems really high for something i have previously owned (I had a DS Lite many years ago) and when i walked into EB Games not much was on the shelf, indicating to me it may be in the same bucket as PS3 (e.g. end of life)?

What are your thoughts on the life cycle of this handheld, is it still value for money and where am i best going to find a deal? I was thinking the 2DS XL as it is cheaper then the 3DS and i understand the 3D is not required (plus the 3DS XL doesn't come with a charger?).

thanks for the help!

Comments

  • I'm interested in this too especially seeing how it can be modded and games downloaded for it.

    • +1

      This - https://ozmodchips.com.au (3DS/2DS section)
      Also there’s something called homebrew (softmod), but you must have the correct firmware and be careful not to brick it.

      • +2

        Don't buy anything for your console until you have read https://3ds.guide

        Gateway, Sky3DS etc are not needed and a waste of money.

    • There is that, but the switch has this too now so i guess would depend on your budget.

  • The 2DS XL may also not come with a charger - better check it.

    There are still occasional games coming out for it, and there will continue to be, but most new games will go to the Switch instead, including DS/3DS stalwarts like Phoenix Wright. There are not many games in shops like EB Games these days, true, and most of them are quite expensive, but the eShop has decent sales quite regularly now, and of course, the secondhand market is quite alive and well.

    I'm still using my 3DS, with about 5 more games to get through before it reaches its end of useful life for me, and will move back to my Switch and PC. Still loving it, though, still making great memories with it.

    • +2

      The 2DS XL may also not come with a charger

      It does.

  • +1

    Personally I think the DS is more kid orientated and as you said heading towards end of life, the switch would be the better buy for an adult if within budget.

  • Get a N3DS XL. Only advantage to the 2DS XL is it is a little lighter, if you have very weak muscles then you can play for longer. A 2DS XL is not a lot cheaper than a N3DS XL, and there are lots of games where the 3D make them extra beautiful.

    Plus, a new N3DS XL can be on a firmware where you can hack it for free, whereas you'll always need to buy something to hack a 2DS XL.

    • +1

      I agree with what you've said, but think it's worth noting that no matter what firmware you're on, you can upgrade to the latest and do the seedminer method for under $5.

      To add onto what you said about 3D looking beautiful, I completely agree, and if you don't like 3D you can turn it on to about 1%, which won't give you a 3D effect but will double the resolution.

      OP, the 3DS is reaching EOL but that isn't an issue, as there's certainly no lack of games for the console and it just means there's a very wide library available.

  • +1

    Go the 3ds or 2ds. The games on the switch are so expensive and very few.
    You can get some pretty good (used) bundles on eBay, then sell off the games you don’t want. Practically got one for free by doing this.

  • I bought one for downtime when travelling overseas - get a big microSD (at least 64gb) and youre set (homebrew is the way to go).

    Great battery life, a huge existing library and great for casual gamers such as myself (no time for proper console/PC gaming).

  • I bought a brand new "Nintendo 2DS XL" from EB Games last year around this time (maybe it was in July or August) and barely used it for 2 hours in total. Cost me $250 and i regret not using it. It's not that it's bad, I was gifted a Nintendo Switch the following day and just put the 2DS XL on the shelf at the same time.

    The 2DS XL is in mint condition. Wonder what i might get for it if i sell it now.

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