Nintendo 2DS Announced. New 'Entry-Level' Handheld Console Without 3D

Nintendo has unveiled a new low-cost version of the 3DS that plays games in 2D.  It will be released in the UK on October 12th for £109.99, according to pricing by GAME.  This is probably one of the more confusing product decisions we've seen from the company in recent times, including the Wii-U.

For the first time since the Gameboy Advance, this is a console without a folding mechanism.  But since this houses two identically sized screens as what you'd see on the 3DS, what you're left with is a pretty hefty slate.  This will play the entire 3DS & DS library, alongside any downloaded games, in 2D, in an effort to cut production costs.

"Nintendo has one of the strongest and most diverse video game lineups in our history," Nintendo Executive Reggie Fils Aime said.  "Today we're making those unique Nintendo experiences more accessible and affordable. However you play and whatever you play, Nintendo has you covered."

Look out for the 2DS in early October, just in time for Christmas sales; but without the crucial third dimension (a big selling point for Nintendo), just how successful could this be?

...plus it's a bit of an eyesore.