Nintendo unveiled its Nintendo 2DS in late August as a version of its popular 3DS video game handheld that would be targeted towards "very young kids." When Nintendo originally made their announcement, many gamers didn't believe it to be an actual product, but seeing how we were able to get our...

Nintendo has a rhythm that's predictable when it comes to product releases: Create a new console, then create different iterations of those consoles with upgrades aimed at expanding market share in clever ways.

Nintendo is making moves to remain relevant in the shifting landscape of handheld gaming. That is, to some degree, what the Nintendo 2DS handheld console is all about. Because this handheld is something of an oddity. Why?

Affordable; works with all 3DS and DS games; who used 3D playback anyway?; there are some great Nintendo games out there; perfect for Pokemon; ships with power adaptor; not uncomfortable in use (despite looks

Won't fit in pocket; non-folding design; might not suit young kids' small hands; not exactly ergonomic brilliance; least attractive DS out there; no auto power saving mode; battery life should really be better

The Nintendo 2DS feels like a budget device and it has no 3D screen capabilities. If you can get over those two caveats then this console offers the best value for money on the market at the moment.

Cheap price; Amazing games; Durable design

Needs a case; Least elegant DS platform; No 3D

Combine this with the removal of the 3D feature and you have a device tailor made for the younger end of the gaming spectrum – Nintendo had previously advised parents to switch off the 3D feature for children under 7 years old. These changes have also had half an eye on the bottom line.

Design Shaped like a thin wedge of cheese, the Nintendo 2DS sports a slightly rounded top that's wider than the curved bottom. The face and back panel are mostly black, with a red or blue band around the edge. The wider top edge hosts the game card slot, the power ...

The lack of 3D, child-friendly design and low price point all suggest that the 2DS isn't aimed at seasoned players or current 3DS owners - it's an entry-level product that allows many younger gamers to get their Pokémon fix just in time for Christmas.

N intendo again causes consternation with an unexpected new hardware format. As one might imagine, the 2DS (£109.99) is a more robust, cheaper version of its 3DS handheld. Less predictable, however, is the hinge-less wedge design and the lack of 3D – the previous console's USP.

I bought for my daughter's 9th birthday and I am so impressed! Compared to the original old DS (before they had internet access!), this is more than a games console - there is so much more to it for her. It feels sleek and has a really tidy design. I feel like I got a lot for my money.

Didn't need or want 3D so went for the 2DS and couldn't be happier. Battery life isn't bad, I run on half brightness and charge nightly and hasn't run flat while in use. Overall feel is comfortable and i was surprised that it fits in my pockets.