In his book Console Wars , Blake Harris reveals a mantra that video game industry insiders spouted in the '80s: "the name of the game is the game." Translation: If you don't have awesome games on offer, there's no point in trying. Early adopters know the struggle.

The plastic clamshell is equally well-suited for kids and klutzy adults; Amazing back catalog of games, super affordable; Plus, you get an AC adapter

Low-res screens; The toothpick stylus is hilariously tiny; Mediocre battery life for a modern gadget; Not as sexy or exciting as a Switch

The New Nintendo 2DS XL is the best 3DS handheld you can buy.

2DS with a clamshell design; Affordable; Works great with all 3DS games; Nice console design; SD and cartridge slots are accessible but protected

Hinge is wobbly; Doesn't add any substantial new features

When considered on its own, or when compared with other 3DS devices, the New 2DS XL is fantastic. It packs all of the New 3DS features into a well-designed package with a very attractive price tag.

Inexpensive; Functional, comfortable design; Supports library of thousands of DS and 3DS games spanning over a decade

Screen is very grainy and low-resolution next to the Switch; Feels redundant

Most of the conversation around Nintendo right now is understandably focused on the Switch , which has had a terrific launch and continues to be difficult to find in stores. And while the Switch is clearly the successor to the failed Wii U, its hybrid nature means that it should ultimately replace...

Sleek new design; Reasonable price; Tons of great games

No 3D; Screens are still bad; Archaic data management

I think if you've never owned a Nintendo 3DS handheld or are in need of a new one, the New 2DS XL is the way to go. At $150, the handheld is a reasonably priced way to get access to the whole 3DS library of games, which is absolutely loaded with excellent titles.

Lightweight and compact; buttons are responsive; enormous library of superb games available

New stylus is a little too short; battery life is just OK; speakers can end up covered by hands during gameplay; 3DS platform in general starting to show its age; still uses cumbersome friend codes for online services

The New Nintendo 2DS XL isn't the best portable gaming console in the 3DS family, but if you don't care about the handheld's namesake stereoscopic effect or mind having a slightly shorter battery life, it's a great way to play Nintendo's excellent library of portable games.

Plays every 3DS game on the market; More comfortable controls than previous model; Easy access to external storage

Shorter battery life than the New 3DS XL; Uncomfortably short stylus; Speakers are just okay

The is an obvious upgrade over the ugly doorstop-like 2DS, and is a joy to play on. The hardware updates are welcome, and the processor is quick even when dealing with the most notoriously slow-loading games.

Of all the devices in the DS line (and there's an excessive amount), this is one Nintendo's best models yet, trailing only slightly behind the more expensive New 3DS XL. It's light, durable, comfortable, and a joy to game on.

The New Nintendo 2DS XL is a stylish refinement on a now well-established formula and whilst stereoscopic 3D is an appreciated feature, this console proves that it's by no means essential.

Huge game library; Attractive design; Affordable

While the Nintendo Switch is quickly becoming the handheld of choice-thanks in part to the likes of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey -the 3DS still has some life left in it. Kirby's Blowout Blast , Hey!