2DS: Questions Answered 21 Days Before Release

Ninty's released word of the 2DS. I know, I had to double take too. It soon dawned on me though that this is in fact a smart move on Nintendo's part. A realistically affordable slight downgrade to keep consumers up to date with new releases in a way that displays Nintendo's developing ability while keeping us lot in the know. The 2DS is set to hit shops just in time for the early Christmas market on 12th October, and its press releases have left me with a few questions. 

Size Matters. 

We all know that size matters, really. So when images were first released of the 2DS i was left reeling confused by the actual size of the device. However, after reading up on the subject it seems that the console fits nicely in the hand (as nice as a brick could fit), the synthetic touch of the surface making for light, easy gripping ability. However, perhaps the top screen isn't all it could be, seems a bit constricting which could make for more vibrant gameplay but i think might just get on my nerves. 

3D Games 2D Screen 

The console is designed to allow more people to play games designed for the prestigious 3D system. So, how will 3D games play on a 2D screen? Will it be the same as simply adjusting the 3D function on the 3DS system itself or will there be some kind of drawback in this department? I heard that inside, the 2DS is identical to its 3D cousin so will that make for better gameplay, or is the screen different? I'm afraid this is one section of questions that we'll have to wait until October for. 

Design Issues 

For me, I feel that the brick-like appearance of the handheld will not do Nintendo any favours. It looks like a child's toy replica of a 3DS bought for a destructive 2 year old to salivate over and crayola up. Controls are high up on the system which apparently helps the gameplay side of things but would just irritate me. I feel like it would be too... tall? For optimal gameplay? You need both your hands to hold it up comfortable so how are you going to (comfortably) touch screen? 

To be honest, if i had no 3DS I would probably save up that extra couple of pounds and buy a second hand 3DS. The 3D effect is what sold the console to me in the first place and I feel like the design of the 2DS would be too restricting and downright infuriating. But that's before i've even laid eyes on it in person, before i've even seen it in a shop so who knows, maybe Nintendo will prove me wrong. 

Final Verdict: A great move for Nintendo, including everyone in their new software introductions but maybe it's a little late now seeing as the 3DS has been out 2 years now. In terms of design though, i'm yet to be convinced. 

Follow me on Twitter: @MusingsTwit 

I'd Like to Thank My Mother... My Father... My Agents.......

Way back in the depths of August I stumbled upon a new icon in my 3DS eShop screen. Unbeknownst to me this was not a new icon but in fact a remastering of an old favorite - Nintendo Unleashed had hit our 3D screens, and what better way to celebrate this but with a competition. The Animal Crossing Unleashed competition caught my attention immediately, throw together a funny, quirky little piece of clothing in the game and send them a photo to be in with the chance of winning a neat little Animal Crossing 3DS XL. Why not?

Skip ahead now to a lonely September afternoon when my 3DS was lifted from its charging dock and eShop was opened - 'just out of curiosity' I told myself. The tension was building as the same bright, happy young voice erupted from my system telling me of all these fabulous games that I had very little time to think about. Then came the competition section. An introduction to the competition itself. A word about a retro Mario shirt. A word about an eShop shirt. Then. Finally. I saw it. My little picture was being displayed before me, my little 'Drop Apples Not Bombs' green dress was up on the big screen (well it's bigger than a DS lite screen?) for all to see and with it was my brand new Animal Crossing 3DS XL.

So obviously this post is a big thank you to Official Nintendo Magazine who sent the prize quickly and even put up with my constant hounding when I first realised i'd won.

Follow me on Twitter: @MusingsTwit