Nintendo Introduces 2DS XL Handheld Console, Launching July 28

Nintendo has announced that they will be releasing a new handheld console system on July 28 called the 2DS XL. It is essentially a 3DS XL minus the 3D, although it is physically smaller and lighter so that it is even more portable. Best of all, it is priced to be very light on the wallet as well at only $149.99 in the US. There is no word yet on pricing for the European market but the release date is expected to apply worldwide as the Asian market release date is also set for July 28.

The Nintendo 2DS XL features two large displays with a 4.88-inch screen at the top and a slightly smaller 4.18-inch screen at the bottom. The Nintendo 2DS XL also features the new C Stick and ZL and ZR buttons introduced on the latest 3DS XL hardware. There is also a built-in NFC support for amiibo cards and figures.

The 2DS XL will be available in white and orange or in black and turquoise color options, but a special edition version will also be available that has a Dragon Quest Metallic Slime 2DS theme according to Kotaku, but will only be available in Japan for now, priced at 22,480 yen (US$201) and will be bundled with Dragon Quest XI.

The announcement demonstrates Nintendo’s commitment to the DS line and that they are not abandoning that market after the success of the Nintendo Switch.