Nintendo 3DS

Nintendo’s dual-screen handheld family adds analog movement and glasses-free 3D on supported models, with meaningful differences across 3DS, 2DS and New revisions.

Type: Handheld
Platform company: Nintendo
Launch date: Feb 26, 2011
Official website: www.nintendo.co.jp

Collected games: 403

www.nintendo.co.jp

Overview

What this platform is

Nintendo 3DS first launched in Japan on February 26, 2011. Nintendo’s successor to DS retains two screens and touch input, while supported models display stereoscopic depth without special glasses. Physical controls and portable play remain central to the platform.

Key features

A Circle Pad supports analog movement in three-dimensional games. Cameras, motion sensors and StreetPass offer additional interactions, while many DS game cards remain compatible. The family includes larger-screen models, 2DS systems without stereoscopic display, and New models with different processing and control capabilities.

What to know before playing

3DS software is region restricted, so match the system and game region. Titles marked exclusively for New Nintendo 3DS do not run on original hardware, and 2DS models do not provide stereoscopic 3D. New eShop purchases ended in 2023; the main official online-play services ended in 2024. Availability of local functions and installed content depends on the software.