What Can the 2DS Play? A Comprehensive Guide

The Nintendo 2DS is a dedicated handheld gaming console designed to provide an accessible and budget-friendly entry point into the world of Nintendo gaming. At its core, the 2DS offers a substantial library of games, primarily focusing on the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS families. Essentially, it plays almost all of the games released for those platforms, making it a versatile choice for gamers seeking a wide variety of experiences without the added cost of 3D capabilities.

Core Capabilities: 3DS and DS Compatibility

The most important aspect of the 2DS is its backwards compatibility. The console can play almost the entire Nintendo 3DS library in 2D. This means you can enjoy a vast selection of titles including popular franchises like Mario, Zelda, Animal Crossing, and many more. The device also boasts the ability to play nearly all Nintendo DS games. This expands the library even further, allowing players to revisit classic titles from the DS era. The 2DS effectively acts as a bridge between these two generations, providing access to a huge collection of games from one single console. It also connects to Wi-Fi, enabling access to the Nintendo 3DS eShop for purchasing and downloading digital titles.

What You Need to Know About Game Compatibility

While the 2DS is very compatible, there are some exceptions to consider:

3D Visuals: The 2DS is designed without the 3D display found on the 3DS and 3DS XL. This means that while you can play any 3DS game, it will always be in 2D. This is the primary difference between a 3DS and 2DS.
“New” Nintendo 3DS Exclusives: Certain titles are specifically designed for the “New” Nintendo 3DS and its upgraded hardware. These titles, which may include Xenoblade Chronicles 3D, Fire Emblem Warriors and SNES Virtual Console titles, cannot be played on a standard 2DS.
GBA Games: While the 2DS can play DS games, it does not have a slot for Game Boy Advance (GBA) cartridges. Therefore, GBA games cannot be played on the 2DS natively. To enjoy these games, you’ll need a Nintendo DS Lite, which features a GBA cartridge slot.

Gaming Experience on the 2DS

The 2DS offers a unique gaming experience, centered on simplicity and affordability. Its distinctive, non-folding design, while criticized by some for its lack of portability, also provides a robust and kid-friendly build. The absence of a hinge makes it a sturdy device, less prone to damage from drops and rough handling. The console comes preloaded with games, like Mario Kart 7, allowing users to begin playing right out of the box. It has a battery life of 3-5 hours when playing Nintendo 3DS software, and 5-8 hours when playing Nintendo DS software, depending on the screen brightness and usage.

The device also boasts access to the online Nintendo 3DS eShop, where a vast collection of digital games can be purchased. This online connectivity makes the 2DS a constantly evolving gaming platform. The 2DS also supports local multiplayer features for compatible games, allowing players to enjoy gaming sessions with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the 2DS

Here are 15 commonly asked questions regarding the 2DS, providing further insights and clarity for potential users:

1. Can the 2DS play all Pokémon games?

Yes, the 2DS can play almost all Pokémon games released for the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS families. This includes titles such as Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, Heart Gold, Soul Silver, Black, White, Black 2, White 2, X, Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire, Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon.

2. Does the 2DS have its own exclusive games?

No, the 2DS does not have its own exclusive library of games. It primarily plays Nintendo 3DS and DS games. All games that work on the 2DS will also work on 3DS devices with the same library.

3. Can I play Ocarina of Time on the 2DS?

Yes, the 2DS can play “Ocarina of Time”, a popular title from The Legend of Zelda series, making it an excellent choice for young gamers to begin their journey with the series.

4. Why doesn’t the 2DS fold?

The 2DS doesn’t fold to reduce the cost of manufacturing. The hinge technology used in the 3DS is expensive, making it a cheaper option for Nintendo to produce without it. The sacrifice was portability for a lower price point and extra durability.

5. Is Mario Kart available on 2DS?

Yes! Mario Kart 7 comes pre-installed on many 2DS devices. All other Mario Kart games that are available on the 3DS and DS can also be played.

6. How long does a 2DS battery last?

The average battery duration is 3-5 hours when playing Nintendo 3DS software and 5-8 hours when playing Nintendo DS software. This varies depending on screen brightness and the game that’s being played.

7. Why is the 2DS cheaper than the 3DS?

The 2DS is cheaper primarily because its screen is a single, flat screen split by a plastic surround, rather than the dual-screen system of the 3DS. This, coupled with the elimination of the 3D display and the folding hinge, makes the 2DS simpler and cheaper to manufacture.

8. What are the limitations of the 2DS?

The main limitations of the 2DS are the lack of 3D display and its inability to play “New” Nintendo 3DS exclusive games. Additionally, GBA games cannot be played on the 2DS using physical cartridges. It is also less portable as it does not fold and could be less durable due to this fact.

9. Can a Switch play 2DS games?

No, the Nintendo Switch does not have backwards compatibility with digital or physical games made for other systems including the 2DS.

10. Does Nintendo still make the 2DS?

No, the 2DS was discontinued in Japan in 2019 and in the rest of the world in 2020, alongside other systems in the Nintendo 3DS family. However, used units are readily available.

11. Is Pokémon Black a 2DS game?

Yes, Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon Black Version is compatible with 2DS systems as they are part of the Nintendo DS family.

12. Can I play Heartgold on a 2DS?

Yes, 2DS systems can play Nintendo DS games including HeartGold.

13. Does Minecraft 3DS work on 2DS?

Minecraft 3DS is compatible with the ‘New’ 3DS and the ‘New’ 2DS XL, which share the same processor and memory, but not on the original 2DS or 3DS.

14. Can I play Phantom Hourglass on 2DS?

While you can technically play Phantom Hourglass on the 2DS, it’s not an ideal experience due to a core mechanic of the game requiring closing the DS. This causes a mechanic to not work correctly.

15. Can you play 3DS games on a Switch?

No, Nintendo 3DS and Wii U games purchased through Nintendo eShop do not carry over to Nintendo Switch as the Nintendo Switch does not have backwards compatibility with physical or digital games designed for other Nintendo consoles.

Conclusion

The Nintendo 2DS remains a compelling option for gamers interested in experiencing the vast libraries of Nintendo DS and 3DS titles. It is an accessible, affordable, and robust device, making it a perfect choice for younger players or those who prioritize simplicity and a wide range of game options. While the lack of 3D and folding mechanics are factors to consider, the sheer volume of games available, combined with its durable design, make the 2DS an ideal console for those looking to enjoy classic Nintendo gaming experiences.

What can the 2DS play?