Nintendo only recently launched its hybrid console, dubbed the Switch, but the tech giant has more up its sleeves. The company is gearing up for another big launch. Recently, Nintendo announced that it will be launching a portable console called the 2DS XL.
According to reports, the 2DS XL is simply an upgraded version of the original 2DS. This revamped device features a similar design to the 3DS XL. Aside from its clamshell body, the 2DS XL comes with a C-Stick, amiibo support, and Z-buttons. The 2DS XL may look like the 3DS XL; however, it will not have the latter's 3D effects.
"This new addition to Nintendo's portable hardware line demonstrates our commitment to the hand-held market," Nintendo of America president and COO Reggie Fils-Aime says in a statement. "New Nintendo 2DS XL sports a beautiful clamshell design and offers great balance between price and performance."
Thousands of titles will be made available on the upcoming console. The library will contain titles from Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS games in 2D. Popular franchises, such as "Mario Kart," "Animal Crossing," "The Legend of Zelda," and "Super Smash Bros.," will be available on the console. In addition, all 3DS XL games have been made compatible with the upcoming device. The console will also include two new games, "Hey! Pikmin" and "Miitopia," which will be launched on the same day as the console.
"Hey! Pikmin" offers 2D side-scrolling levels with numerous puzzles waiting to be solved. Meanwhile, "Miitopia" offers a personalized world with role-playing game (RPG) elements.
The Nintendo 2DS XL will be launched in the U.S. on July 28. The device will retail at $149.99 and come in blue and black and white and gold. The device will launch earlier in Japan, specifically on July 13.
More updates should arrive in the weeks to come.
