When Nintendo announced its 2DS yesterday, the first response by most folks was confusion. Twitter blew up with calls of “Is this real?” and “It’s not April yet!” After it became clear that yes, Nintendo was releasing a 2D version of its 3D flagship handheld, the internet responded in its usual classy manner. Now Francis, one of the classiest of all, has delivered his opinion on the 2DS with one of his signature angry video blogs. Check it out below!
Nintendo has since fleshed out its plan with the 2DS, pointing out that its intended for young children. This makes a little more sense. Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime elaborated on this strategy in an interview with IGN
“We’re always thinking about what we can do that’s new, unique, different, and brings more people into this category that we love,” said Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime.
“And so with the Nintendo 3DS, we were clear to parents that, ‘hey, we recommend that your children be seven and older to utilize this device.’
“Let’s have the consumer have access to all of these great games – Mario Kart 7, Animal Crossing – but do it in a 2D capability with a device that has a dramatically lower price point. That’s just an example of how we’re always thinking about, ‘how do we get more people playing games? How do we get more people playing Nintendo games?'”
As a durable, entry-level handheld at a price point reduced by $50, Nintendo’s strategy makes a little more sense. Still with multiple versions of the DS remaining in circulation as well as the 3DS and 3DSXL, another model can make things even more confusing for Grandma and Grandpa Christmas shopping at their local Wal-Mart.
I personally can’t stand the design, but can see its function. A big, tough slate is great to hand to your 5-year-old, who can drop it down the stairs and let the dog chew on it. The reduced price is great as well and the sacrifice of the 3D feature probably makes no different to the little kids the 2DS is aimed at.
That said, anyone over 8 should be pretty pissed to get this strange wedge in their stocking instead of a sleek, clam shell 3DS with all its capabilities intact.
Francis feels the same way. Watch him offer his opinion in his usual subtle and nuanced style. My personal favorite quote is, “Good news is next year they’re gonna’ announce the 1DS which is just a pinpoint in space that goes on for infinity.”
After you hear Francis’ opinion on the 2DS, let us know in the comments what yours is!
Check out the video below, but be warned the language is definitely NSFW:
BONUS! Francis released a special how-to on how to get your own 2DS right now!
[Via: Boogie 2988]