Well this was unexpected. Though Nintendo has attempted to downplay the 3D capabilities of its 3DS handheld ever since it was released (including Shigeru Miyamoto stating that the 3D feature wasn’t necessary for all games).
Today, the consolemaker has announced the 2DS, a new handheld that plays all 3DS games, but only in 2D. As with the 3DS, DS game support is also included. The handheld, which has been priced at $129.99, is being aimed at families looking for a more affordable system. And in another interesting twist, it doesn’t share the clamshell design of the 3DS (or the DS, DSi, and DSi XL for that matter). Instead, it’s one solid piece and will be available in two colors: Blue and Red.
The Nintendo 2DS will be released on October 12, the same day as Pokemon X and Pokemon Y.