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.