In a move that was a bit unexpected, Nintendo has announced a new handheld that will launch this summer: the New 2DS XL.
In the wake of the Switch launch, most people expected Nintendo to begin moving away from its 3DS family of handhelds, instead focusing on the portable mode on the Switch. Those folks got a bit of a surprise today, as Nintendo announced a brand new handheld: the New Nintendo 2DS XL.
The 2DS XL returns to the folding clamshell design that has become synonymous with the DS line of handhelds. It’s got the added processing power that was in the “New” 3DS XL, as well as the “C Stick” nub above the face buttons on the right. It also adds two new shoulder buttons, unsurprisingly called “ZL” and “ZR.” There’s also an NFC reader behind the screen so you can use all the amiibos that you’ve accumulated.
Nintendo says the New 2DS XL will play “all Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS, and most Nintendo DS games in 2D.” The new handheld will be available July 28, and will carry a retail price of $149.99. You can find more info on the New 2DS XL over on Nintendo’s website.
