Nintendo just unveiled a new, alternative handheld system to 3DS, called 2DS. It functions primarily like a 3DS does, in which, all existing 3DS and over 2,000 DS games can still be played, it has wifi, eShop access, AR functionality, and cameras to record video and take pictures. The main focus of this new model is the fact that the design is uniquely its own (no more clam shell) and can only play games in 2D. What you get is a simpler device that’s a good amount more affordable, with the same two screen sizes as a 3DS, coming in at $130. For comparison’s sake, 3DS costs $170 and 3DS XL will put you back $200.
What do you think of the 2DS? Paul Gale Network believes that it will be a big seller when it comes out this October 12th (the same day as Pokemon X and Pokemon Y) and is an ideal platform for both parents that want to get their kids a relatively cheap handheld and those that don’t want or can’t take advantage of the 3DS’ stereoscopic 3D capabilities in the first place.
Nintendo also just confirmed what PGN reported on two weeks ago: Deluxe Wii U bundled with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (digital version) and a digital version of Hyrule Historia for a new, low price of $300, effective September 20th. This is a great deal to say the least. As for the Basic Wii U and whether or not it’ll see a price drop or be discontinued…we don’t know just yet. What we also don’t know, but I’m sure the 3.5 million Wii U owners would appreciate happening, is some sort of Ambassador Program taking place. If this doesn’t happen though, you can’t argue with the fact that early Wii U adopters have been able to get half a dozen NES/SNES titles on eShop for 30 cents each…something that when normally priced, does add up a good amount.
And finally, here’s an updated look at Wii U’s video game release dates for the remainder of the year:
First party
1a] The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD – September 20 (Digital)
1b] The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD – October 4 (Physical) for $49.99
1c] The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD – October 4 (Physical) for $54.99
2] Wii Party U – October 25 (with Wii Remote Plus for $49.99)
3] Super Mario 3D World – November 22 ($59.99)
4] Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze – December 6 ($49.99)
5] Wii Fit U – Holiday 2013
In case you’re wondering what’s up with the $55 version of Wind Waker, exclusively through GameStop, you can get a Collector’s Edition of the game that comes with a Ganondorf figurine. Also worth mentioning is that Super Mario 3D World is now a November title (previously set to come out in December) and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze has been pushed back by three weeks, in addition to also being a big title for only $50.
Third party
1] Rayman Legends – September 3
2] The Wonderful 101 – September 15
3] Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure – September 24
4] LEGO Marvel Super Heroes – Fall
5] Just Dance 2014 – October 8
6] Skylanders SWAP Force – October 13
7] Sonic Lost World – October 22
8] Batman: Arkham Origins – October 25
9] Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag – October 29
10] Call of Duty: Ghosts – November 5
11] Watch Dogs – November 19
12] Mario and Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games – Holiday 2013
Out of the above 12 third party games hitting Wii U, 4 are exclusive to the console and 8 are multiplatform releases.
Nintendo 3DS (and 2DS) release dates:
First party
1] Pokemon X – October 12th
2] Pokemon Y – October 12th
3] The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
4] Mario Party: Island Tour
PGN has already revealed a couple weeks ago that Pokemon X and Pokemon Y would be getting their own 3DS XL bundles and these are still expected to come out the same day as the games by themselves. Although looking at Wind Waker, who knows…Nintendo might pull out one more surprise and release the bundles before the standalone versions.
Third party
1] Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure – September 24
2] LEGO Marvel Super Heroes: Universe in Peril – Fall
3] Skylanders SWAP Force – October 13
4] Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate – October 25
5] Sonic Lost World – October 22
6] Adventure Time: Explore the Dungeon Because I DON’T KNOW! – November 19