When Nintendo says “never,” it more often than not means, “in the future, but please stop asking about it right now.” This is especially true with it comes to products, software or hardware released in other territories, like Japan, that don’t have North American announcements or release dates attached to them. The standard New 3DS — the small one, not to be confused with the New 3DS XL — has been asked for by many since both new systems were announced just before PAX Prime last year, with only the XL eventually being released in North America.
Well, the wait is over for those dying to have a New 3DS of the smaller variety who didn’t want to import from overseas. North America is finally getting a New 3DS! Yes, everything about it is the same as the New XL, complete with NFC reader technology for amiibo support. The one major difference, especially in the eyes of collectors and Nintendo fans, is the changeable cover plates (also referred to as face plates) the smaller 3DS has that the XL version does not. The cover plates snap on to the handheld console itself, giving folks the option of customizing their 3DS systems to fit the mood, the current game being played, or whatever other inspiration may come via the aesthetics of the 3DS case.
The New 3DS comes exclusively in an Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer bundle. This particular package also includes a digital download of the game, two Animal Crossing-themed cover plates, and an Isabelle amiibo card. The bundle will come out on the same day as the game, on September 25th, and will retail for $219.99.
You can pre-order the Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer bundle that includes the standard New 3DS at GameStop now!
There is another New 3DS XL system coming out as well, this one being another Legend of Zelda inspired to coincide with the launch of The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes. This system does not come with a copy of the game, and is being released one week after the game, on October 30th. The gold New 3DS XL, featuring a Hylian crest design, will retail for $199.99.
You can pre-order the Hyrule Edition New 3DS XL bundle that includes a copy of Tri Force Heroes at GameStop now!
Written by Josh Brown
Being able to write about Nintendo is a dream come true for Joshua. While his family will always take precedent, his workaholic mindset and insomnia allow him all the time he needs for his hobbies in the wee hours of the night. He's also the co-host and producer of the Toys For Games 'Cast podcast.
