New Nintendo 2DS XL

Lore & Background

The New Nintendo 2DS XL was introduced as a companion to the Nintendo 2DS, incorporating the updated processor, C-Stick analog pointing stick, additional shoulder triggers, and near-field communications (NFC) support for Amiibo from the New Nintendo 3DS. It launched in multiple color variants including "Black/Turquoise" for North America and "White/Orange" for Japan, South Korea, and PAL regions, with later additions such as "Lavender/White", "Black/Green", Poké Ball, Pikachu, Hylian Shield, Animal Crossing: New Leaf, Mario Kart 7, and Minecraft Creeper styles. A "Purple/Silver" version was announced in August 2018 and released the following month. All future shipments of standard models from that point included a pre-installed copy of Mario Kart 7. The console was discontinued in Japan, Europe, Australia, and other regions by 31 March 2020, and in North America on 16 September 2020.

Reader's Guide

The New Nintendo 2DS XL served as the final model in the Nintendo 3DS family, offering the performance enhancements of the New Nintendo 3DS—such as exclusive game compatibility for titles like Xenoblade Chronicles 3D and Fire Emblem Warriors—without the 3D display. Its design featured rounded edges, a corrugated top surface, and a dustcover for the microSD and Game Card slots, a unique approach among Nintendo DS systems. Critics noted improvements in ergonomics and aesthetics over the slate-shaped Nintendo 2DS, but observed regressions in display contrast, speaker quality, and stylus length. The console's battery life was rated at 3.5 to 5.5 hours for 3DS games and 7 to 9 hours for Nintendo DS games. With 4.8 million units sold worldwide by March 2021, it represented a niche but significant option for players who wanted New Nintendo 3DS features without the 3D functionality, though its launch timing coincided with the Nintendo Switch.

Did You Know?

• The New Nintendo 2DS XL is branded as New Nintendo 2DS LL in Japan.
• It can play games exclusive to the New Nintendo 3DS, such as Xenoblade Chronicles 3D and Fire Emblem Warriors.
• The microphone and camera are located on the hinge, while the speakers are on the lower half of the device.
• A Hylian Shield variant was released as a GameStop exclusive in North America in July 2018.