In a differentiation move, Nintendo has announced its 2DS handheld.
Based on the same electronics as its 3DS gaming portal but $40 cheaper, the 2DS doesn't feature the latter's headline 3D stereoscopic technology.
Other price cutting measures sees the two-screened portable contained within a fixed, wedge-shaped casing.
The loss of the DS' characterised clam-shell hinge configuration no doubt makes the device cheaper to manufacturer; more in terms of the layout of the electronics than the hinges.
More importantly, however, it differentiates the cheaper 2D in terms of its physical appearance, while making it slightly less portable.
Priced at $130, the 2DS will launch on 12 October alongside Pokemon X and Y.
Tickering at the edges
The move comes as Nintendo remains under pressure in terms of its business, notably the Wii U home console.
It's just announced a $50 price cut on the deluxe version to boost sales.
However, despite the general view that the 3D features of the 3DS have been a failure, the portable itself continues to sell fairly well. Its total install base on 30 June 2013 was 32.5 million.
The bigger question of when Nintendo will finally start making games for phones and tablets remains as much unasked as unanswered, though.
News
Contributing Editor
A Pocket Gamer co-founder, Jon is Contributing Editor at PG.biz which means he acts like a slightly confused uncle who's forgotten where he's left his glasses. As well as letters and cameras, he likes imaginary numbers and legumes.
Top Stories
News
May 29th, 2024
Dungeon & Fighter Mobile picks up $66 million on China's App Store in first week
Events
Indie Game Fest & Indie Campus 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Indie Craft K-Game Festival 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
BostonFig Online 2024 | Jun 1st | |
GameSummit Summer 2024 | Jun 1st | |
Gotland Game Conference 2024 | Nordic | Jun 3rd |
Games Mental Health Summit 2024 | Europe | Jun 3rd |
Dev Play Conference 2024 | Europe | Jun 3rd |
Tribeca Games Festival 2024 | North America | Jun 5th |