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3DS

Japan

New Nintendo 3DS XL Hands-on Preview

by Danny Bivens - October 13, 2014, 5:49 pm EDT
Total comments: 35

We take a look at the improved performance that Nintendo’s new system has to offer.

When the New 3DS was first announced, Nintendo promised lots of improvements. System performance enhancements, a CPU boost, a better web browser and more help give the new handheld a technological edge over its predecessor. At the time of this writing, Nintendo’s servers were bloated and temporarily down, so I didn’t have a chance to try out games (like my digital version of Smash). This did, however, present a good opportunity to take a look at the basic system features.

The improved stereoscopic 3D effect is a big improvement on what you would find in standard 3DS units. As with setting up any other system in the 3DS family (sans the 2DS), you have the option to test out the 3D effect. With the New 3DS, a new option, 3D Blur Prevention, is part of what helps stabilize the 3D effect on the system so that it’s a lot harder to lose. During the test, the front-facing camera tracked my face and displayed it on the screen as a smiling avatar in a small box. This is the viewing range that you have if you want to see the 3D effect while gaming. It is interesting to note that you can sometimes see the 3D effect shifting somewhat while you are moving, basically fixing the viewing angle on the go. That goes to show that it’s not instantaneously tracking your head and eye movements - which is fine, considering the lag is still very, very short. In a time when 3D seems to almost be a forgotten fad, Nintendo still shows that they actually care about 3D with this improvement.

The improvements with the New 3DS CPU really enhances a number of basic functions. Changing between applications is significantly faster than previous models, giving the user a snappier experience. The web browser also benefits from the changes in CPU. This time around, clicking hyperlinks more or less takes you instantly to your desired web page. It might not sound like a big deal, but compared to waiting a few seconds between pages loading on the original units, this makes the New 3DS feel like a more modern device. The web browser also now supports video playback. You’ll still have to go to the dedicated YouTube application for embedded videos, but you can still watch things like the Nintendo Direct videos directly on the browser.

Miiverse feels right at home on the New 3DS. Compared to the abysmal load times on the older units, Miiverse can be up and running on the new hardware in a fraction of the time. After doing some very basic comparisons, the old 3DS took nearly 30 seconds to get inside of the Miiverse while the New 3DS about eight to ten seconds. Individual community pages and posts also load considerably faster, making the overall experience far more usable.

The New 3DS is not the next big step in Nintendo’s hardware history. Like the DSi before it, the new system is an improvement on base hardware that offers a lot more in terms of usability. The under-the-hood boost to the CPU plays a big part in most of this, making things like web browsing and Miiverse fully functional on the handheld. The decision to not only stick with but improve stereoscopic 3D also shows Nintendo is serious about supporting that feature of the system. In terms of on-board software, the New 3DS is clearly superior to its predecessors.

Talkback

WahOctober 13, 2014

I like how the name's NEW 3ds!  ;D
Very creative.

Ian SaneOctober 14, 2014

So a year ago Nintendo releases the 2DS and the message is that 3D is not all that important.  If the company is offering a product that doesn't support the 3D feature it suggests that it isn't that essential of a feature for 3DS games.  Hell Pokémon hardly even has it even when played on a 3DS.

Then a year later Nintendo releases the New 3DS, which unlike the 2DS has upgraded hardware that will make some games unplayable on the old model, and a big part of it is to improve the 3D effect - the feature that last year mattered so little that Nintendo was willing to ditch it to offer a cheaper model.

You ever get the feeling that at Nintendo the right hand doesn't know what the left is doing?  The 2DS and New 3DS are such vastly different products that they feel like two different strategies from opposing camps within Nintendo to try to improve 3DS sales.  One side is saying "3D hasn't caught on and isn't that essential so we should ditch it and make a cheaper model" and the other is saying "3D is the whole selling point but we need to do it better."  It's like the no-3D camp got their chance last year and it didn't do that well so the pro-3D side now gets their chance.

Now has 3D been a big non-factor on the 3DS because the concept isn't that interesting or because the specific implementation isn't that hot?  I pretty much always play with 3D off but would that be the case if it took less effort on my part to maintain the effect?  Hard to say because I also don't care about the concept and bought the 3DS because of the games, not the 3D feature.  At the same time "better 3D" isn't going to get me to buy another 3DS.

I think the quicker Nintendo gets off this "quirky features sell videogame systems" idea the better.  Good games sell systems.  And the 3DS isn't selling as well as the DS for the simple reason that for all but the most dedicated gamers a smartphone is sufficient for playing videogames on the go.  The Nintendogs crowd is gone FOREVER and improving the system's 3D gimmick isn't going to make any difference.

The 2DS and New 3DS are different products with different aims because they're intended for different audiences. It's not Nintendo being unaware, it's them purposely designing different products for different types of people.

marvel_moviefan_2012October 14, 2014

The Nintendo Ian described sounds like the Sega from 94 on, the one who wanted to go all in on the Saturn and the one who wanted to release 32X and keep the Genesis alive. If Nintendo is turning into that company we already know what happens next.

What killed Sega most was having too many products on the market to splinter their fractured userbase. Too many products is a bad thing because they will ultimately lose money. Before Insano comes out all this isn't the same as Sega, yeah I know but just like Sega, Nintendo has fractured and confused the hell out of their customer base, and they are loosing large amounts of money. They can't lose money forever and no matter how lucrative their properties once were they can't sell them off to survive because if Nintendo can't turn a profit off those franchises there is no guarantee some other company can too.


Honestly I don't care if they make a profit or not because the way things have been if they disappear from the market the world might not even notice.

Nile Boogie ReturnsOctober 15, 2014

    The 2DS is so obviously aimed at a younger demographic that it baffles me that you would compare the 2. Nintendo is not the only company to have different models of their handheld. There are at least 3 Nabi tablets for babies and young children...3! This implied "confusion" that Nintendo puts out is a complete fabrication of a jaded gamer fan base. Consumers may be "uninformed" about the different products nintendo puts out but these same people are often uninformed about many other consumer products, not exclusive to Nintendo.

CericOctober 15, 2014

Its also different Markets.  It seems fractured to us because with the Internet news travels much easier now.

Here in the United States we have a history of really embracing 3D and then getting burned.  Hard.  Do that enough times and even when the Tech finally sort of catches up to the Promise people are scared of it because we've been burned.  Couple that with the old Tech being wonkier than the new Tech and ala the 2DS is born.  I bought a 2DS for my Son.  I think its excellent kit in many ways.  I also think that its not the 3D effect itself its the adjustment of it for younger demographics that really makes the 2DS a solution to a problem.

In other parts of the world they don't have the same relationship with 3D.  Nintendo needed more power to keep MonHan.  They needed a boost in sales of Hardware.  They needed a new coat of paint on a UI that has frankly been functionally but outshined by its competitors.  They wanted a more Amiibo friendly portable.  Hence the New 3DS series was born.  It is the GBA Micro of the 3DS line.

Now here's the question, what beliefs do you lie with?

If you believe the Next Console from Nintendo is not a console at all but an Uber Portable.  Than the New 3DS is a stop gapped meant to extend the life of the 3DS until its time to Retire the WiiU.

If you think that they will keep them separate than the comparison to the GBA Micro is much more app.

famicomplicatedJames Charlton, Associate Editor (Japan)October 15, 2014

Thanks for rubbing in the fact they'd all sold out when I tried to get one Danny!
I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next. Or in Smash.


Still, can't wait to pick mine up. Got mine reserved for the next batch coming in next week-ish.


Also FYI, check out the Famicast LIVE episode we did on Monday about the New 3DS, or just wait for the audio version to appear in iTunes as usual ;)

AdrockOctober 15, 2014

Quote from: NWR_insanolord

The 2DS and New 3DS are different products with different aims because they're intended for different audiences. It's not Nintendo being unaware, it's them purposely designing different products for different types of people.

I'm astounded by how many times this needs to be reiterated.

marvel_moviefan_2012October 15, 2014

bullshit its not the same at all they are sold at gaming stores to gamers, not toy stores to children, those tablets you mentioned are toys sold at toy stores for children NOT real tablets sold side by side with real tablets at electronics stores it is similar tech different markets.

There is ONE video game market, children are included in that market, the 3DS was also aimed at children are you telling me NO KIDS own a 3DS or its not kid friendly? Where the hell is that coming from by your logic 3DS is the grown up hand held and the 2ds is the kids one, which is FALSE, they are both aimed at the same market, even Nintendo is marketing them side by side to the same audience this idea they are targeting a different audience is fiction made up by the die hard apologists who are trying do defend a fractured market.

This isn't like the cell phone business and your a damn fool if you think otherwise there has ALWAYS been one dominant hand held in the market and the others were always failed competitors video games are a much smaller market than cell phones or would you turn around and make the SAME case for another console to enter the home console space? NO you would not because that goes against the whole damn market dynamic, that isn't how it works you know that, there have always been two or three main consoles everytime there are more than that the industry gets wiped out and starts over. Same thing with handhelds.

The video game market is still the video game market kids are that market they have to choose get a 2DS or a 3DS or a NEW 3ds, no matter which one they get that leaves two others unsold instead of just selling one to everyone, that fractures the market.

It amazes me how anyone could compare any gaming device to anything non-gaming related. Your the same people who don't think mobile phones are the same market that 3DS is in, which I agree, but based on that logic the 3ds and 2ds are in the same market, its not like they do ANYTHING different they play the same damn games it would be different if say 2ds ONLY played kids games, or watered down Leap Frog type games but it doesn't it plays the same games, and FYI I have seen more adults with 2ds than I have kids, and even I wanted one and I am not a kid, if it was aimed at children only it wouldn't appeal to adults at all.

Its not a different market that is something you made up in your mind to tell yourself Nintendo is not in trouble when all signs point to that not being true. You discount the notion because of who said it, you disagree me because you think I am an asshole and automatically not worth listening to you disagree with Ian because he sticks to his guns and never waivers and that frustrates you that he doesn't sing the same song the chorus is signing, so therefore you dismiss both our view when REALITY is different.

I can't challenge Insanolord because he is a mod who hates me and would love for me to give him an excuse to ban me because doing so means he can turn off that voice that argues with his everything will be okay attitude that is clearly delusional.

Facts are facts, the FACTS IS the video game market has never supported this many devices on the market at the same time aimed exclusively at gaming while ALSO facing so many non-gaming devices that also play games nearly as well as the gaming device, this is uncharted territory that much we can't argue with.

I never said market confusion either at least not implying that people are stupid and can't chose for themselves that isn't the point I was making the point is the dedicated gamer market is small, getting smaller all the time, and this splintering of the market is NOT a good sign, just because Sony is also panicking and doing the same thing does not mean it will work, it just means the current model is slipping and they are all getting desperate to change with the times.

Even if you take 2ds out of the equation there is still NEW 3DS which is aimed at the most hard core of the gamer market the smallest faction there is, and that itself is not smart because its too early for that crowd to upgrade and even earlier still for everyone else. It reeks of both desperation and a confused company who has lost their direction, you discount that because I compared it to Sega, I could compare it to any other company and you'd agree but because Sega is a joke to Nintendo fans they dismiss everything Sega as if somehow Nintendo is untouchable and could never make the same mistakes those "idiots" made yet here we see them doing exactly that. Maybe not 1:1 exactly but the same thing they have too many machines they have to manufacture and ship to stores and sell through to a limited customer base that is shrinking all the time.

AdrockOctober 15, 2014

Pointing out that you can't challenge insanolord is, in fact, challenging insanolord by insinuating that he is an unfair moderator who squashes opposing viewpoints due to being in a position of authority which, in the years that I've Internet-known him, could not be further from the truth. In my experience, insanolord (and Uncle Bob for that matter) has been generally pretty fair and he's pretty hands-off with his moderating. Someone seriously has to be a total fuck-up for any mod to step in.

As for the rest of your post, I would recommend gaining a better understanding of "market" and "demographics."

Ian SaneOctober 15, 2014

The 2DS is in the same section of the store as the 3DS and will be in the same section of the New 3DS.  So they're making a big stink about better 3D and then probably in the same display case will be the 2DS whose very existence suggests that 3D is not that important of a feature to enjoy 3DS games.  That might not be Nintendo's intended message but the two products will be sold side-by-side giving conflicting messages to consumers.

I think the improved tech is more what they should emphasize with the New 3DS.  Nintendo thought 3D was going to sell the 3DS at launch and it didn't and they had to cut the price and give existing owners free games.  Emphasizing 3D at this point comes across like Nintendo doubling down on an outdated fad.  And last year, regardless of who the 2DS is meant for, they just said "3D doesn't matter".  That's what the 2DS says.  Pokémon X/Y's 3D implementation was ridiculously half-assed with the 3D feature just not being available in large chunks of the game.  And now suddenly this feature that the market effectively laughed at and Nintendo effectively admitted doesn't matter is now the big selling point?

The whole thing just makes no sense.  The 3DS started selling well once it had good games.  When it was just supposed to sell on the 3D gimmick it was a dud.  If Nintendo thinks that improving the feature is going to pick up sales they are ignoring the entire lifetime of the 3DS thus far.

AdrockOctober 15, 2014

Jebus, this again. 3D was just something Nintendo added because it could finally do so cheaply. At launch, 3D cost like $7 to implement. You're so weirdly attached to 3D being this massive albatross. Nintendo's problem wasn't relying on 3D to sell 3DS. Rather, it was trying to sell 3DS primarily on the shoulders of DS's success which is never a good idea. 3DS is a great handheld; it just wasn't at launch. Nintendo seems to be developing this alarming habit of releasing hardware when it is clearly not ready to be released. 3D is a bullet-point, not the entire point. And why not improve 3D if it's going to release an updated model anyway?

And I would attribute the improved sales at least partially to dropping $80 from the price tag.

CericOctober 15, 2014

You go with the Army you have not the Army you want.

Back to my earlier post.

2DS is a product that was made to solve a problem and it does that well.
New 3DS is a product made to solve a problem but, unlike the 2DS its not a mass consumer marketable problem.

Right now in the US you will find in the wild 2DS and 3DS XL.  This time next year it will be 2DS, New 3DS, and New 3DS XL.

marvel_moviefan_2012October 15, 2014

Quote from: Adrock

Pointing out that you can't challenge insanolord is, in fact, challenging insanolord by insinuating that he is an unfair moderator who squashes opposing viewpoints due to being in a position of authority which, in the years that I've Internet-known him, could not be further from the truth. In my experience, insanolord (and Uncle Bob for that matter) has been generally pretty fair and he's pretty hands-off with his moderating. Someone seriously has to be a total ****-up for any mod to step in.

As for the rest of your post, I would recommend gaining a better understanding of "market" and "demographics."

he said it was targeted at kids, a different demographic sure but the same market but you dodged the whole damn issue, 3ds is also targeted at the SAME demographic dumb ass. there report that asshole.

AdrockOctober 15, 2014

Quote from: marvel_moviefan_2012

he said it was targeted at kids, a different demographic sure but the same market but you dodged the whole damn issue, 3ds is also targeted at the SAME demographic dumb ass. there report that asshole.

Childish name calling aside, this has been discussed countless times. 3DS and 2DS are not targeting the same demographic. Certainly, any child can use a regular 3DS. However, Nintendo does not recommend 3D for children ages 6 and under. 2DS is an excellent solution for concerned parents and/or parents with more than one child.

Nile Boogie ReturnsOctober 15, 2014

I can not fathom this kind of thinking: a new version of a branded hardware has an improved feature, that it makes all other versions of the same hardware obsolete or relegated to a completely inferior position. THIS IS MADNESS! Almost every consumer product has different makes and models. YOU EVER TRIED TO BUY BRAKES FOR A 2004 FORD CROWN VICTORIA? This is just normal business practice.




Whoa...What's the deal with all the vitriol and name calling. Did I miss a memo?

StogiOctober 15, 2014

As long as they have different prices and different features, I don't see the problem with releasing two systems. The mobile market does it all the time.

And it's not like it's unprecedented by Nintendo standards. The GBA was an awesome handheld, then they released the GBSP and the GBMicro. They were essentially the same, but no one thought they were diluting the market. In fact, most people saw it as trying to widen the market.

The 2DS is obviously marketed towards kids. It may not seem obvious to you, but any parent looking at both systems and wondering what to get their child will see the price, sturdier shell and lack of features as the kids model. Anyone older looking to buy a 3DS themselves, will also look at the 2DS and realize that it isn't for them. So that's fine.

My main problem is Nintendo updating its system to the point where there are exclusives for those systems despite having the same name as it's predecessor. Monster Hunter is exclusive to the NEW 3DS, right? I may have read that wrong, but if that's true, that's pretty messed up. That is a trend I don't want to see. Having two, three, even four tiers in the same ecosystem is fine, but as soon as a game can't be played on all of them, that's a troubling sign.

AdrockOctober 15, 2014

Quote from: Hypotheliciously

My main problem is Nintendo updating its system to the point where there are exclusives for those systems despite having the same name as it's predecessor. Monster Hunter is exclusive to the NEW 3DS, right? I may have read that wrong, but if that's true, that's pretty messed up. That is a trend I don't want to see. Having two, three, even four tiers in the same ecosystem is fine, but as soon as a game can't be played on all of them, that's a troubling sign.

Nah, the only New 3DS exclusive game is Xenoblade Chronicles. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate is still playable on a regular 3DS. It benefits from the updated hardware with better load times. Personally, I think I'll prefer playing on a regular 3DS due to the Circle Pad Pro. It's more comfortable to hold and has a proper Circle Pad.

StogiOctober 15, 2014

Ah so it was Xenoblade. Still, that's worrying.

Even if Xenoblade cannot be played on the regular 3DS system, and this is the only way it can make it to handhelds, they shouldn't port it over. It's not bad from a sales perspective, but it is for consumer trust. It sets the precedent that despite having the same name, there are games you cannot play. Nintendo has never done this. They had attachments and things of that nature (like the RAM chip for the N64) but they never made you purchase new hardware to play games under a single moniker.

Just imagine a customer going to the store to pick up a new game and they see Xenoblade, but are then told the 3DS they currently own can't play it despite the box saying Nintendo 3DS all over it. That situations fucked and only if Xenoblade is the only game that does this and is packed into every NEW 3DS console, do I not foresee this confusion happening.

They should call the NEW 3DS something else or wait to release the game on other hardware.

marvel_moviefan_2012October 15, 2014

Quote from: Nile

I can not fathom this kind of thinking: a new version of a branded hardware has an improved feature, that it makes all other versions of the same hardware obsolete or relegated to a completely inferior position. THIS IS MADNESS! Almost every consumer product has different makes and models. YOU EVER TRIED TO BUY BRAKES FOR A 2004 FORD CROWN VICTORIA? This is just normal business practice.




Whoa...What's the deal with all the vitriol and name calling. Did I miss a memo?

what hell are you even talking about that has nothing to do with this conversation. No shit dumb ass new products come out who the hell is arguing otherwise? THAT is the reason for the name calling because only an asshole would take what *IS* being discussed and turn into a flame like that which is intended to make the other guy sound stupid its passive aggressive bull shit that makes me active aggressive because you dodge the fucking conversation by sidestepping what is being said and throwing shit like that out there.


No it is the same as an old model being REPALCED because they are replacing 3ds, the NEW 3ds will be on shelves side by side, and they will get new games BUT NEW 3DS is not even ahardware repl;acement.


BS 3DS is not made for kids, they suggest children under six don't use the 3D and they HAVE OPTIONS for turning the 3D off FOR KIDS for that reason, people were bitching about that when 2ds was announced there was no POINT because you can already turn the 3d off. IF it was not intended for kids they wouldn't put a warning label on it and have a feature to turn it off, they would just say on the packaging NOT FOR KIDS.

Nintendo, gaming stores and the industry as a whole are NOT selling the 2DS as a kids device thats made up in your minds this is the only website I hear that even being said and only in response to New 3ds like it some how justifies it.


Look let me spell it out so you get what I am saying.

NEVER before has this worked PERIOD. Everytime there are too many devices that do THE SAME THING the market crashes that is fucking fact. That is why Sega CD failed there were too damn many of them, not enough quality games and it was high priced but the fact remains there were too many choices on the market.


The last time Nintendo did this, look what happened, they got into deep financial trouble and haven't yet recovered so don't tell me this is a smart move that isn't without controversy bull shit, obviously its failed in the past why would any assume it will fail now, it makes more sense to be pessimistic than blindly optimistic. I am not predicting the future so stop acting like I am all I am saying is people ARE ALREADY confused and this will only make it more confusing.


IT IS NOT the same as cell phones stop saying it is! people expect to upgrade cell phones every year or every other year they do not and HAVE NEVER done that with game consoles EVER. That is why we have a 5 year minimum cycle because that is what the market has adjusted to, every attempt to deviate from that has caused disruption this last time half the fucking industry went bankrupts and only a handful are still going and YES business websites are saying it looks back all the way around, ONLY fan boys are defending this move. It isn't having TWO handhelds on the market people are saying is bad it is have FIVE, they don't have TWO they have FIVE, 3DS,, 3ds xl, 2ds, and now New 3ds and new 3ds xl that is NOT two that is five , unprecedent in the gaming market so no this isn't like before its different. Now I am NOT saying this will ruin Nintendo or it will be bad damn it all I am saying is it is different PERIOD conceded that Ill shut up ignore it and it does make you an idiot because the FACTS are it is different.

I wouldn't get angry if you weren't so hostile to me, you passively aggessively called me an idiot by giving a speech on how market works and that other asshole ignoring my entire arugment because he ntipicked over words. I have a fucking markerting dergee I know this SHIT I dont have to teach it and I dont have to explain to you the facts are its NOT THE SAME.

Why is that so hard to grasp? Its not the same as cars either, that is an entirely different business were variety is the name of the game.


That is it I am done, I can't do this because its bullshit, nobody ever reads what I say they pick out the ONE PART they disagree with and turn it into a fight fuck you assholes all you fuck you and your fucking fanboy winey ass loser retarded shit for brains no good faggots anyways.


Also it wasn't just about the NEW feature is was also about the 2ds which is a step BACKWARDS and everyone on here hated that thing to now defend because oh no here comes someone with adifferent view to hurt your tiny ass brains. I give up fuck you idiots. this isn't even worth it I came here to talk video games but your all lost your minds your gone all of you the only sane one left is the one who says hes note. ogh well you chased me off again feel good knowing that your all assholes who can't have conversation because even if you PRETEND yourmore civilized your not so fuck you fuck you all fuck off.

Ian SaneOctober 15, 2014

Quote from: Adrock

Jebus, this again. 3D was just something Nintendo added because it could finally do so cheaply. At launch, 3D cost like $7 to implement. You're so weirdly attached to 3D being this massive albatross. Nintendo's problem wasn't relying on 3D to sell 3DS. Rather, it was trying to sell 3DS primarily on the shoulders of DS's success which is never a good idea. 3DS is a great handheld; it just wasn't at launch. Nintendo seems to be developing this alarming habit of releasing hardware when it is clearly not ready to be released. 3D is a bullet-point, not the entire point. And why not improve 3D if it's going to release an updated model anyway?

And I would attribute the improved sales at least partially to dropping $80 from the price tag.

I highly doubt 3D was just an afterthought bullet point for a system called the *3D*S.  Last gen's formula was that nifty gimmicks attracted casuals and non-gamers to Nintendo videogame systems resulting in big sales figures.  Nintendo obviously thought the same approach would work again so they gave the Wii U a tablet controller and gave the 3DS glasses-free 3D.  Both iPads and 3D TV was like the "in" thing at the time so they were trying to cash in.  The formula didn't catch lightning in a bottle twice.

The 3DS is still a great system thanks to some great games and the 3D feature isn't so overpowering that it handcuffs it.  It isn't an albatross.  If you don't like 3D you can turn it off.  Nintendo obviously doesn't think it's that important or they would never offer a variation of the system that doesn't have it.  I think it really is worth emphasizing how half-assed the 3D in Pokémon X/Y is.  Here is the biggest game for the system and Nintendo's use of the big 3DS feature, the one in the damn name of the product itself, is treated like an afterthought and the game launches with a variation of the system that doesn't even have it.  3D obviously doesn't mean squat.

I think the New 3DS is a DUMB idea.  The 2DS was also a dumb idea due to its confusing name.  Having the 3DS, 2DS and New 3DS all out at the same time, where one plays all of the games but the other two don't, is going to cause massive brand confusion.  You figure the company that bungled the Wii U's marketing so badly that people thought it was an accessory instead of a new console would learn a thing from that.  So why is Nintendo releasing the New 3DS?  Due to the emphasis on improved 3D I'm thinking that some Nintendo execs think that the 3DS hasn't sold as well as they would hope because the 3D wasn't good enough.  They're still hoping those blue ocean customers are just waiting in the wings and just need the right product to bite on.  3D was supposed to get them on board but it didn't work and it must be because the 3D just wasn't good enough, right?  Yeah, that's it!  So they're beefing up the specs to improve the 3D.

The 2DS seems like the opposite approach: let's make a cheaper model that will be an easy sell to parents with kids that want Pokémon.  3D didn't take off like expected so it's something we can cut as part of the cheaper model.  One approach says that 3D is expendable while the other suggests that it is such a selling factor that a whole new model with incompatible games is worth investing in so that the 3D can be improved.

Didn't the 2DS not sell as well and they would like?  So one idea didn't work and now the opposite idea gets a chance a year later.  You can assume it's all a calculated plan on Nintendo's part but I'm very much of the idea that if Nintendo knew what they were doing the Wii U wouldn't be the Wii U and they would never have had to drastically cut the price of the 3DS in the first place.  You see two different products with different target audiences, I see two contradictory products that suggest two different ideas of what will sell more systems and the riskier idea getting a kick at the can about a year after the first one failed to make much impact.  And don't know if that's actually the case but it seems like a possibility.  And if it is just two different products aimed at different audiences that's some major naivety on Nintendo's part because both systems will be lumped into the singular videogame section at each store like the 2DS and 3DS are now.

AdrockOctober 15, 2014

Quote from: Ian

I highly doubt 3D was just an afterthought bullet point for a system called the *3D*S.

Well, I didn't even say "afterthought;" you did. I said it was a "bullet point, not the entire point." There's much more to 3DS than 3D. I definitely think you're focusing way more on it than even Nintendo ever has. Nintendo certainly has used 3D as part of its marketing. However, while you're quick to point out the "3D" of 3DS, I find the "DS" of 3DS to have been the bigger problem. It's far more troubling to me that Nintendo thinks brand recognition can offset the negatives of launching an incomplete product.

Quote:

So why is Nintendo releasing the New 3DS?

Amiibo. Nintendo isn't even subtle about this as the New 3DS logo is the same font and design as the Amiibo logo. It's clearly taking precedence over the other additions. The improved 3D, like 3D itself in the original 3DS, is another bullet point. Nintendo is bound to make a killing on Amiibo because people, especially in Japan, like collecting shit. These are $13 figures that costs Nintendo what, a few bucks. It's no surprise that Nintendo is making such a hard push in Japan because, like Streetpass, the concept works really well there.

3D isn't an integral part of the 3DS. It's not necessary to play with it on, and I myself usually don't. Many people do enjoy it, though, and would enjoy it being enhanced. Different models with different feature sets are a common tactic in all kinds of industries. Nintendo's done this many times over the years, as have other game companies.

Also, as has been pointed out, I'm perfectly fine with people disagreeing with me on here. As much as I might like to play up my dictatorial image in the Funhouse, I think my record shows that I'm pretty lenient when it comes to moderation here. What I won't stand for, though, is personal attacks. Disagree with me or anyone else all you want, but do so in a civil, respectful manner.

famicomplicatedJames Charlton, Associate Editor (Japan)October 16, 2014

So should we just start this thread again?  :cool;

AdrockOctober 16, 2014

Quote from: famicomplicated

So should we just start this thread again?  :cool;

Probably, but it'll just descend into a New 3DS hate thread. Let's try to get it back on track.

I think New 3DS is a good idea. I'm not interested in it myself at the moment, but I see the merits of it. As a vehicle for Amiibo, it's a necessary evil. The improvements are too substantial for this to be a Game Boy Light-esque Japan exclusive. I hope DSi has tempered Nintendo's expectations for this everywhere else in the world.

As this is a New 3DS XL hands-on preview, it's important to note the lack of faceplates which I felt were the best thing about the new handheld. I'm not interested in Amiibo. I turn 3D off. I don't even use Miiverse on Wii U. I can play 99% of 3DS games and I already own a Circle Pad Pro. Aesthetically, I admit that I like the colored buttons and the XL's shade of blue. I'm not particularly big on personization, but I like the concept behind it. Collecting faceplates is a shit ton easier and affordable than rreplacing the entire unit for a limited edition. This is also helpful when sending in for repairs since Nintendo doesn't promise that you'll get your unit back. I have a plain black XL and I would have been annoyed if I didn't get that one back. Imagine having the Link Between World's one.

Everything I've read says the C-stick works well. I'd still like to see a true Circle Pad when a real successor is released. Also, New 3DS still has the infrared sensor for the all the both games that use it. Nintendo could potentially release a New Circle Pad Pro. It's a shame they couldn't keep the dimensions the same as the original models.

marvel_moviefan_2012October 16, 2014

Quote from: Adrock

Quote from: famicomplicated

So should we just start this thread again?  :cool;

Probably, but it'll just descend into a New 3DS hate thread. Let's try to get it back on track.

I think New 3DS is a good idea. I'm not interested in it myself at the moment, but I see the merits of it. As a vehicle for Amiibo, it's a necessary evil. The improvements are too substantial for this to be a Game Boy Light-esque Japan exclusive. I hope DSi has tempered Nintendo's expectations for this everywhere else in the world.

As this is a New 3DS XL hands-on preview, it's important to note the lack of faceplates which I felt were the best thing about the new handheld. I'm not interested in Amiibo. I turn 3D off. I don't even use Miiverse on Wii U. I can play 99% of 3DS games and I already own a Circle Pad Pro. Aesthetically, I admit that I like the colored buttons and the XL's shade of blue. I'm not particularly big on personization, but I like the concept behind it. Collecting faceplates is a **** ton easier and affordable than rreplacing the entire unit for a limited edition. This is also helpful when sending in for repairs since Nintendo doesn't promise that you'll get your unit back. I have a plain black XL and I would have been annoyed if I didn't get that one back. Imagine having the Link Between World's one.

Everything I've read says the C-stick works well. I'd still like to see a true Circle Pad when a real successor is released. Also, New 3DS still has the infrared sensor for the all the both games that use it. Nintendo could potentially release a New Circle Pad Pro. It's a shame they couldn't keep the dimensions the same as the original models.

The part in bold is EXACTLY why I called you an asshole. I have said all along I SUPPORT the New 3ds and I am buying one, so why don't you shut the fuck up already and stop being such an asshole. All I ever said was *in context* in reply to the *joke* Ian made about Nintendo sounding like they were being pulled in two different directions *reminded* me of the Sega from the 90's and YOU and Insanolord turned it into a big mess so fuck you sir.

RE-READ my posts I have defended the fucking 2DS and the damn New 3ds, only issue I ever had with either was the name, which as far as I can tell nearly everyone else seems to agree with me so once again it is just YOU being an asshole not even reading what I say just attacking me and picking my post apart for no good reason because your so fucking full of yourself you can't get your head out of your ass long enough to pay any attention to what I was saying.

MY POINT was only that they will have FIVE machines on the market that ALL play the same games, which is the definition of a fractured market but whatever I don't care because all you did was ignore my entire post and PICK OUT the parts you wanted to pick on, so again fuck you.

I tried being civil I have admitted in the past EVERYTIME when I mis-read someones view and backed away, even apologized when it was necessary but you fail to do that so my only conclusions is you are an ASS HOLE.

I never pretended to be a nice guy but at least I am honest, straight forward and I don't just pick out a part of a post and piss everyone off, I piss everyone off because I don't give a fuck what people think of me.


So we are clear,

in every thread that New 3ds was discussed I defended it, YOU have done nothing but flip flop everytime I post something you just wait to read what I saw and then attack it for no good reason, You, Adrock and Insanolord are the only two who do that, others call me out when I saw something rude or whatever but all you do is go out of your way to attack me.

IF I am reading you wrong PROVE it by manning up and admitting you were wrong. Or stick to your guns of being a total asshole and lets just agree if I see your name in a thread I ignore it, you do the same to me and we might get along better. I was actually having a good day yesterday before you opened you mouth asshole.

Now I said my peace, I am out. I am going to try to ignore you and you can do yourself good to do the same to me.

WahOctober 16, 2014

lol

famicomplicatedJames Charlton, Associate Editor (Japan)October 17, 2014

OK....errr. Take 3?  :Q

nickmitchNovember 28, 2014

Is there still no release date on this thing?

famicomplicatedJames Charlton, Associate Editor (Japan)November 28, 2014

Quote from: nickmitch

Is there still no release date on this thing?

Japan: Out
Australia: Out
EU/USA: Please understand

Ian SaneNovember 28, 2014

Isn't NOA relying on the general public to not be aware that the 3DS is being replaced with a superior model so that they'll still buy "Old" 3DS's this Christmas?  If they give the date now then the cat's out of the bag and 3DS sales could go down the shitter.

I personally find that rather dishonest but I understand why they would wait to formally announce the New 3DS in North America.

That's probably part of it, though I doubt there's a ton of overlap between people who are buyng 3DSes at this point and those who'd care enough to wait for a slightly better, likely more expensive iteration.

AdrockNovember 28, 2014

Quote from: Ian

Isn't NOA relying on the general public to not be aware that the 3DS is being replaced with a superior model so that they'll still buy "Old" 3DS's this Christmas?  If they give the date now then the cat's out of the bag and 3DS sales could go down the shitter.

That's extremely melodramatic, particularly since we've seen this story play out before just last generation and a new model didn't make much of an impact. Even if Nintendo of America announced a release date, it's doubtful that would have a major affect on holiday sales especially since a new Pokemon just released. Anyone who would even be interested in New 3DS and it's mostly minor upgrades likely already knows about it because the Internet. I wouldn't be surprised if most of the people waiting for New 3DS are current 3DS owners looking to upgrade. The cat is already out of the bag. I really don't think there's a very large group of people who both haven't heard about New 3DS and care to wait. Parents buying for their kids, for example, aren't going to wait months to give their kids a New 3DS on NOT Christmas.

The old XL just got discontinued in Japan, which lends more credence to the "getting rid of stock" theory.

famicomplicatedJames Charlton, Associate Editor (Japan)November 30, 2014

In case no one else has said this yet: Americans/Europeans don't buy a 3DS this Xmas. Wait.

Just wait, mmkay? Seriously. Like, for serious you guys.

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Genre
Developer

Worldwide Releases

na: New Nintendo 3DS XL
Release Feb 13, 2015
PublisherNintendo
jpn: New Nintendo 3DS LL
Release Oct 11, 2014
PublisherNintendo
eu: New Nintendo 3DS XL
Release Feb 13, 2015
PublisherNintendo
aus: New Nintendo 3DS XL
Release Nov 21, 2014
PublisherNintendo

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