Nintendo has announced a two-dimensional variant to their DS lineup, the 2DS.
In a statement, Nintendo America mentions that the 2DS “is designed specifically for anyone looking for a more affordable entry point into the world of Nintendo hand-held video games”, and that “Nintendo 2DS will be available in Red or Blue on Oct. 12 at a suggested retail price of $129.99”.
As the name suggests, the 2DS plays all 3DS titles, but only displays in two dimensional view. Other hardware features such as dual screens, touch screen and gameplay controls will remain the same. The 2DS will also have backwards compatibility with original DS games.
Nintendo America have also announced a price drop on the Wii U, with the recommended retail price now at $299.99 USD, a price drop of $50 USD. In addition to the price drop, a Wii U bundle featuring The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD will release on 20 September, also priced at $299.99 USD.
Nintendo America President and COO, Reggie Fils-Aime, comments on today’s announcements, saying that “Nintendo has one of the strongest and most diverse video game lineups in our history”.
Today we’re making those unique Nintendo experiences more accessible and affordable. However you play and whatever you play, Nintendo has you covered.
[Update]: Nintendo 2DS will release in Australia on 12 October for $149.95 AUD. Posted on Kotaku, the 2DS colour range (White + Red and Black + Blue) will also be available in Australia.
[Update 2]: Nintendo Australia have confirmed via Vooks that the Wii U price drop and Zelda Wii U bundle will not be coming to Australia.