Tag: Nintendo 3DS

  • Graded Nintendo 3DS Consoles Reach $1,500 Amid Safety Concerns

    Graded Nintendo 3DS Consoles Reach $1,500 Amid Safety Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rising prices for second-hand Nintendo 3DS consoles are alarming fans, with some sealed models priced between $1,200 and $1,500.
    2. Grading and sealing unopened Nintendo 3DS consoles has raised safety concerns, particularly about potential battery issues like swelling or explosions.
    3. The trend of grading collectibles, including video games, has become popular, but applying it to consoles with batteries is controversial.
    4. This trend complicates access for retro gamers who want to use the consoles, as prices are inflated and functional devices become harder to find.
    5. The gaming community is reacting negatively, with critics highlighting the absurdity of sealing consoles and risking their primary function for value.

    If the rising prices of second-hand Nintendo 3DS consoles on eBay weren’t alarming enough, scalpers and collectors have upped the ante by grading and sealing unopened Nintendo 3DS handhelds. Fans of Nintendo’s cherished, discontinued gaming device are quite upset about this trend.

    Recently, a post on Reddit’s r/consoles highlighted two graded and sealed New Nintendo 3DS XL Majora’s Mask Editions that the user bought for a hefty price.

    Though the Redditor didn’t specify the exact amount, a Nintendo 3DS XL Legend of Zelda Majora’s Mask VGA Graded Silver 85 NM+ can be priced between $1,200 and $1,500 (via eBay). This post has sparked a lot of backlash from gamers and YouTubers, including Shane Luis, who described the situation as “beyond incredibly dumb.”

    Concerns About Battery Safety

    The main issue with sealing unopened handhelds is that it could cause the lithium-ion batteries inside to swell, which might result in leakage or even explosions.

    Collecting and grading video games, comic books, and Pokémon cards has become a booming trend in recent years, with pristine cards and rare cartridges fetching thousands of dollars. Organizations like WATA and VGA are responsible for grading these items based on their condition and authenticity, after which they are sealed in acrylic cases.

    The Impact on Gamers

    However, applying this practice to portable consoles that contain batteries has definitely raised eyebrows within the gaming community. The Reddit post displayed two PAL-region Nintendo 3DS XL Majora’s Mask systems, completely boxed, that are now secured in an acrylic case post-grading.

    Some 3DS models can be found for as low as $230 or as high as $1,000 on platforms like eBay, including special collector’s editions. This ridiculous trend has made it more challenging for retro gamers and potential buyers who wish to use the consoles for their intended purpose: playing Nintendo 3DS games.

    Shane Luis from the Rerez YouTube channel commented on the matter, sharing his thoughts on Bluesky. He stated:

    I really dislike when people get fooled into doing foolish things like this. NEVER EVER let a video game grading company seal new consoles with batteries. You’re basically trapping a battery inside a sealed plastic coffin that could either swell, leak, or explode.

    Sarcasm in the Debate

    In the midst of this controversy, one commentator sarcastically remarked:

    The best way to increase an object’s value is to completely negate its primary function by encasing it in plastic. That’s why I’m preserving my firstborn son in plastic, to keep him minty fresh and show the world how valuable he is. What could express more love than that?

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  • Anbernic RG DS: Affordable Dual-Screen Handheld for DS/3DS Games

    Anbernic RG DS: Affordable Dual-Screen Handheld for DS/3DS Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has officially announced the RG DS, its first dual-screen gaming handheld.
    2. The RG DS is capable of playing Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS titles, including Shovel Knight and Pokémon Black Version 2.
    3. It supports stylus inputs on the lower screen, allowing gameplay for stylus-based games like Kirby: Canvas Curse and Nintendogs.
    4. The expected launch price for the RG DS is under $100, with speculation about the use of the Unisoc T620 chipset for better performance.
    5. A release date for the RG DS is yet to be confirmed.

    Anbernic has recently revealed new details about the RG DS, which is its very first dual-screen gaming handheld. Just to summarize, the company officially recognized that this device exists about a week ago. Still, there were whispers about the RG DS even when Anbernic was gearing up to launch the RG476H (currently priced at $189.99 on Amazon).

    RG DS Gameplay Highlights

    A week after its initial announcement, Anbernic has demonstrated the RG DS playing several titles from Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS, including Shovel Knight and Pokémon Black Version 2. The company also confirmed that the RG DS can utilize stylus inputs on its lower screen, similar to what was seen in the Nintendo DS series. To illustrate this feature, Anbernic pointed out the RG DS’s compatibility with stylus-based games such as Kirby: Canvas Curse, Nintendogs, and even Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword, which can be played in a vertical setup.

    Chipset Speculation

    At this moment, Anbernic is keeping fans guessing about the chipset that powers the RG DS. Considering the handheld’s expected launch price of under $100, it seems unlikely that Anbernic will opt for the Unisoc T820 or the Dimensity 8300, which have been used in their latest Android devices. According to recent speculations, Anbernic might go for the Unisoc T620, which offers better performance than the Unisoc T618 found in the RG405M and RG405V. However, a release date is still up in the air for now.

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  • AYN Thor Shines in New Demo Videos and Live Photos

    AYN Thor Shines in New Demo Videos and Live Photos

    Key Takeaways

    1. AYN Thor is set to start shipping in mid-October, with live photos and demo videos being shared in the meantime.
    2. Demo videos show the AYN Thor playing Nintendo 3DS games, utilizing both screens and touch controls.
    3. The device will be available in four color options, including a Clear Purple version that reveals internal components.
    4. Pre-orders for the AYN Thor start at $249 for the Lite version, with various models priced up to $429 for the Max version.
    5. AYN offers a range of accessories for the handheld, with individual prices and a bundle option for savings.

    The AYN Thor is expected to begin shipping in the middle of October if everything goes as planned. While customers wait for their orders to arrive, AYN has been releasing live photos and demo videos showcasing the handheld device. Recently, they shared a video that highlights the custom software created for this dual-screen gaming handheld. They also released some live images of one of the four available color options. Now, they’ve added two new demo videos and additional live photos displaying all the colors offered.

    Demo Videos of AYN Thor

    In one of the recent demo videos, the AYN Thor is seen playing several Nintendo 3DS games, including Mario Golf World Tour, Rayman Origins, and Super Mario 3D Land. All three titles utilize both screens on the AYN Thor, showing either a map, progress bar, or instructions. The demo also illustrates that players can use touch controls for compatible games, and switch between the main screen and the secondary one.

    Live Photos and Color Options

    The other video also showcases various Nintendo 3DS and DS games, but this time it features the Clear Purple version of the AYN Thor instead of the black variant shown previously. The live photos reveal all four color options, offering a closer look at the purple model that has a see-through shell, allowing visibility of the internal components of the device.

    Pre-Order and Pricing Details

    Customers can pre-order the AYN Thor from the AYN website, starting at $249 for the Lite version, which is equipped with a Snapdragon 865 processor, 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage. The price increases to $299 for the Base model, which boasts the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor while retaining the same RAM and storage as the Lite version, although upgraded to LPDDR5x and UFS 4.0.

    The Pro and Max models also feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. However, the Pro model has 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, priced at $349, while the Max model offers 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, costing $429. Additionally, AYN is offering accessories for the handheld, including a $12 carrying case, a $15 TPU grip case, a $15 TPU transparent shell, a $10 pack of two screen protectors, a $5 soft pouch, and a lanyard for $3. Customers can buy these items individually or save $10 by choosing the accessory pack for $50 instead.

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  • Nintendo Stops Repair Services for New 2DS XL and 3DS Family

    Nintendo Stops Repair Services for New 2DS XL and 3DS Family

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has discontinued repair services for the New Nintendo 2DS XL, marking the end of support for the entire Nintendo 3DS series as of September 4, 2025.
    2. The New Nintendo 2DS XL was the last model in the 3DS series, which has sold over 75 million units since its launch in 2011.
    3. The discontinuation of repairs is due to a lack of available replacement parts, making it challenging for fans to maintain their devices.
    4. Previously, Nintendo had stopped repair services for earlier 3DS models, with the original 3DS and 3DS XL in 2021 and the New 3DS and 2DS in 2024.
    5. The closure of repair services follows the shutdown of the 3DS eShop in March 2023 and termination of online services in April 2024, limiting access to digital games and features for 3DS users.

    Nintendo has announced that it will no longer provide repair services for the New Nintendo 2DS XL, which means that support for the entire Nintendo 3DS series has officially come to an end. This news was shared on September 4, 2025, as the company works to phase out repair assistance for this cherished handheld device, first introduced in 2011.

    Repair Services Discontinued

    The New Nintendo 2DS XL, which was the last model in the 3DS series, has had its repair services halted due to a lack of available replacement parts. In a statement released on X, Nintendo said:

    “We have run out of parts needed for repairs, and as a result, we have discontinued repair services for the New Nintendo 2DS XL as of September 4, 2025. Repairs for all other Nintendo 3DS series systems have also been discontinued.”

    With the closure of repair services, it signals the end of an era for one of Nintendo’s most adored handheld devices, as the company shifts focus to its leading handheld console, the Nintendo Switch 2.

    The 3DS Family Legacy

    The Nintendo 3DS family includes several models such as the original 3DS, 3DS XL, 2DS, New 3DS, New 3DS XL, and New 2DS XL. Since its launch in 2011, the 3DS has sold over 75 million units globally by June 30, 2025.

    Released in 2017, the 2DS XL represented the last significant hardware update, featuring a clamshell design and lacking stereoscopic 3D, while still being compatible with the full Nintendo 3DS game library. This includes popular titles like Pokémon Sun and Moon, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Mario Kart 7, and Super Mario 3D Land.

    Challenges for Fans

    Previously, Nintendo had ceased repair services for the original 3DS and 3DS XL in 2021, followed by the New 3DS and 2DS in August and March 2024, respectively. Now, with the New 2DS XL repairs ending as of September 4, 2025, fans face a new set of challenges.

    Many enthusiasts and collectors still enjoy playing their 3DS systems, but finding replacement parts like batteries, buttons, and screens has become more difficult over time. Although the 3DS models were generally known for their durability, the New 2DS XL faced hinge problems, leading many users to seek help from third-party repair shops.

    This announcement follows the winding down of the 3DS eShop in March 2023, which removed the ability for players to download digital games. Additionally, online services were terminated in April 2024, preventing users from accessing multiplayer and network features. As a result, players who still possess a 3DS may lose access to a variety of digitally exclusive games once they are removed from their handheld devices.

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  • Retro DS: New Handheld for Nintendo 2DS & 3DS Emulation Fans

    Retro DS: New Handheld for Nintendo 2DS & 3DS Emulation Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. MagicX plans to release two new gaming handhelds by the end of the year, following the Mini Zero 28 and Zero 40.
    2. The Retro DS will be MagicX’s first dual-screen handheld, featuring a 4.1-inch primary display and a 3.4-inch secondary display.
    3. The Retro DS is designed primarily for emulating Nintendo 2DS and 3DS games, with a focus on 2D gameplay.
    4. The device will use a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset for performance.
    5. MagicX is developing more than six additional devices beyond the Retro DS.

    MagicX has officially announced its plans to release two additional gaming handhelds before the year concludes. This follows the Mini Zero 28 and Zero 40, which is currently priced at $94.99 on Amazon. The company has also disclosed that it is working on more than six new devices.

    Details on the Retro DS

    Among these new devices, the Retro DS stands out as MagicX’s first genuine dual-screen handheld. In a recent update on Discord, MagicX stated that the Retro DS is equipped with a primary 4.1-inch display that boasts a resolution of 1,280 x 720 pixels, formatted in a 16:9 aspect ratio. Additionally, the smaller secondary display is reported to be 3.4 inches diagonally, offering a 4:3 aspect ratio and a native resolution of 960 x 720 pixels.

    Emulation Capabilities

    As the name suggests, the Retro DS seems to be designed primarily for emulating Nintendo 2DS and 3DS games. However, it’s worth noting that the main display is a bit wider compared to the screens found on Nintendo’s 2DS and 3DS consoles. Furthermore, MagicX has yet to confirm whether the Retro DS will support 3D images.

    Thus, it appears the device will likely limit its emulation capabilities to Nintendo 3DS games in 2D format. Still, the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset is expected to provide a decent level of power for a compact Android gaming handheld. If the company’s plans go as scheduled, the Retro DS is set to be the first model that MagicX launches next year.

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    Retro DS: New Handheld for Nintendo 2DS & 3DS Emulation Fans

     

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  • Free Nintendo 3DS Emulator Launches with 50% Performance Boost

    Free Nintendo 3DS Emulator Launches with 50% Performance Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. Azahar is a new Nintendo 3DS emulator developed from Lime3DS source code after the shutdown of Yuzu and Citra due to legal issues with Nintendo.

    2. The first release candidate of Azahar is available for testing on Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows, with plans for a stable release if no major issues are found in the first week.

    3. A notable feature of Azahar is the “Disable Right Eye Rendering” hack, which improves performance by displaying graphics in monoscopic mode, beneficial for lower-powered devices.

    4. To avoid legal problems, Azahar requires users to own a Nintendo 3DS to extract game files, using a tool called Artic, and does not support loading encrypted games.

    5. Azahar developers emphasize legal use, encouraging users to back up their own original games and providing information on this in their blog.

    Back when Yuzu, a well-known Nintendo 3DS emulator, shut its doors, Citra didn’t take long to follow suit, seemingly due to the legal actions Nintendo announced against the emulator’s creator. Shortly after, Azahar was introduced as a new Nintendo emulator that uses the source code from Lime3DS, which itself is based on Citra. Today, the developers of Azahar have shared the first release candidate for this new 3DS emulator.

    New Release Candidate

    The initial release candidate is a software version that the developers claim will lay the groundwork for future features. It’s being made available on Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows for testing purposes. If no major problems are uncovered within the first week of testing, it is likely to transition into the first stable release. You can grab it from the Azahar GitHub repository.

    Great Hardware Choice

    For 3DS emulation, something like the Lenovo Legion Go (currently $602.99 at Amazon) is a fantastic choice, especially when held vertically with the controllers disconnected.

    The release candidate comes with a variety of intriguing features, one of which is a hack called “Disable Right Eye Rendering.” This forces the emulator to display graphics in monoscopic mode—meaning it only uses one eye—potentially giving a 50% performance increase. This will probably only be needed on lower-powered Android devices, but it’s a handy tool to have. Azahar also enables users to download games directly from the Nintendo eShop if they have the 3DS system files.

    Avoiding Legal Issues

    To prevent facing the same issues as Citra and Yuzu, Azahar mandates that users must have an actual Nintendo 3DS to extract game files, using a new tool called Artic. There’s no method to load encrypted games, meaning game files must be decrypted first before they can be used in the system. One reason encrypted game support was removed is that bypassing TPM and security protocols was a crucial part of the arguments in lawsuits against Yuzu and Citra.

    However, Azahar does offer cryptographic keys to users, claiming that this is necessary for compatibility, and that these keys aren’t “creative enough to be protected by copyright law.” This simplifies things for users, as they won’t need to extract keys from their consoles.

    Emphasis on Legal Use

    The developers of Azahar maintain that their goal is not to promote piracy, and much of their communication stresses that users should only use the emulator to back up their own original games. More details on this are available in a recent blog post from Azahar regarding game loading.

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