Nintendo 3DS In 2017: A Look Back

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Nintendo 3DS in 2017: A Look Back

Hey everyone! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Nintendo 3DS in 2017. It was a pretty interesting year for the handheld console, even though it was already a few years into its lifespan. The Nintendo Switch had just launched, so the 3DS was kind of sharing the spotlight. But that didn't stop it from having some awesome games and moments. We'll dive into the big game releases, any special editions that dropped, and how the 3DS fit into the gaming world at the time. So, grab your 3DS (if you still have one!) and let's get started!

Top Game Releases of 2017

In 2017, the Nintendo 3DS still had some amazing titles coming out, proving it wasn't ready to be overshadowed just yet. These games spanned various genres, ensuring there was something for every type of gamer. Let's dive into some of the standout releases that year.

Metroid: Samus Returns

One of the biggest highlights was Metroid: Samus Returns. This game was a complete remake of Metroid II: Return of Samus for the Game Boy. It wasn't just a simple graphical update; it was a full-on reimagining with updated gameplay mechanics, improved controls, and stunning visuals that really pushed the 3DS to its limits. The game brought Samus Aran back to the forefront, tasking her with eradicating the Metroid species on SR388. The atmosphere was thick with tension, and the exploration was classic Metroid at its finest. For fans of the series, this was a must-have, and it introduced a whole new generation to the Metroid universe. The 3D effect added depth to the environments, making the experience even more immersive. Metroid: Samus Returns was a critical success, praised for its faithful adaptation and modern enhancements.

Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia

Another major title was Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia. This game was a remake of the second game in the Fire Emblem series, Fire Emblem Gaiden, which was never released outside of Japan until this remake. Shadows of Valentia featured a unique art style, fully voiced cutscenes, and a compelling story about two childhood friends, Alm and Celica, who find themselves on opposing sides of a war. The gameplay retained the classic Fire Emblem strategic RPG elements but introduced new features like dungeon exploration and a Mila's Turnwheel mechanic that allowed players to rewind time to correct mistakes. This was particularly useful for newcomers to the series who might find the permadeath aspect of Fire Emblem challenging. The characters were well-developed, and the narrative was engaging, making it a standout title in the Fire Emblem franchise. The game’s presentation was top-notch, with beautiful animations and a soundtrack that perfectly complemented the game’s atmosphere.

Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon

Of course, we can't forget about Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. These were enhanced versions of Pokémon Sun and Moon, offering an alternate storyline, new Pokémon, and additional features. Set in the Alola region, players embarked on a journey to become the Pokémon Champion while uncovering the secrets of Necrozma. The Ultra versions added new Ultra Beasts, new areas to explore, and a more challenging post-game experience. The gameplay remained familiar to Pokémon fans, with turn-based battles, catching and training Pokémon, and trading with friends. The 3D visuals were vibrant and colorful, bringing the Alola region to life. While some criticized the games for being too similar to their predecessors, they still offered a substantial amount of new content and were a hit with Pokémon fans. The Pokémon franchise continued to be a powerhouse on the 3DS, and Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon were no exception.

Other Notable Mentions

Besides these major titles, there were other notable releases in 2017 that deserve a mention:

  • Mario Sports Superstars: A collection of various sports games featuring Mario and his friends.
  • Ever Oasis: An action RPG with town-building elements.
  • Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology: A remake of the classic Nintendo DS RPG.

These games, along with the heavy hitters, made 2017 a solid year for the Nintendo 3DS, proving that the handheld still had plenty to offer even with the Nintendo Switch on the scene.

Special Edition 3DS Consoles in 2017

In 2017, Nintendo kept the 3DS lineup fresh with some pretty cool special edition consoles. These weren't just your standard color variations; they often came with unique designs and sometimes even bundled with popular games. These special editions were a hit with collectors and fans alike, adding a touch of personality to their handheld gaming experience. Let's check out some of the standout special edition 3DS consoles from that year.

The New Nintendo 2DS XL Poké Ball Edition

One of the most eye-catching special editions was the New Nintendo 2DS XL Poké Ball Edition. This console was designed to look like a Poké Ball, featuring a red and white color scheme with a button in the center that resembled the Poké Ball's button. It was a must-have for Pokémon fans, and it perfectly captured the spirit of the franchise. The Poké Ball Edition was released alongside Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, making it a perfect companion for the new games. The console itself was a New Nintendo 2DS XL, which meant it had a larger screen and improved performance compared to the original 2DS, but without the 3D display. It was a great option for younger players or anyone who preferred the 2D experience. The Poké Ball Edition was a limited release, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors.

The New Nintendo 3DS XL Samus Edition

To coincide with the release of Metroid: Samus Returns, Nintendo launched the New Nintendo 3DS XL Samus Edition. This console featured a sleek design inspired by Samus Aran's iconic Varia Suit. The console had a predominantly black finish with orange and yellow accents, mirroring the colors of the Varia Suit. It was a stylish and understated design that appealed to Metroid fans. The Samus Edition was a New Nintendo 3DS XL, which meant it had all the features of the enhanced model, including improved 3D display, better performance, and additional buttons. It was the perfect way to experience Metroid: Samus Returns, and it was a great addition to any Metroid fan's collection. The console was often bundled with a digital copy of the game, making it an even more attractive package.

The New Nintendo 2DS XL Pikachu Edition

Another popular Pokémon-themed special edition was the New Nintendo 2DS XL Pikachu Edition. This console featured a bright yellow color scheme with a large Pikachu face on the front. It was adorable and instantly recognizable, making it a hit with Pokémon fans of all ages. The Pikachu Edition was also a New Nintendo 2DS XL, offering the same benefits as the Poké Ball Edition, such as a larger screen and improved performance, but without the 3D display. It was a fun and playful design that perfectly captured the spirit of Pikachu. The console was often released in limited quantities, making it a popular collector's item.

Other Notable Special Editions

While the Poké Ball, Samus, and Pikachu editions were the most prominent, there were other special edition 3DS consoles released in 2017, including various regional exclusives and retailer-specific bundles. These special editions added variety to the 3DS lineup and gave fans more options to choose from. They also helped to keep the 3DS relevant in the face of the Nintendo Switch's growing popularity.

The 3DS in the Gaming Landscape of 2017

In 2017, the Nintendo 3DS found itself in a somewhat unique position. The Nintendo Switch had just launched in March, creating a buzz and capturing the attention of gamers worldwide. This naturally led to questions about the 3DS's future. Was it on its way out? Was Nintendo going to shift its focus entirely to the Switch? Well, the answer was a bit more nuanced.

A Dual Focus

Nintendo adopted a dual-focus strategy in 2017. While the Switch was undoubtedly the shiny new toy, Nintendo continued to support the 3DS with new game releases and hardware variations. This approach made sense for a few reasons. First, the 3DS had a massive install base. Millions of people already owned the handheld, and they weren't necessarily ready to abandon it for a new console. Second, the 3DS had a vast library of games, offering a diverse range of experiences that the Switch couldn't immediately match. Third, the 3DS was more affordable than the Switch, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers and families. By supporting both platforms, Nintendo could cater to a wider audience and maximize its revenue streams.

Complementary Systems

Instead of viewing the 3DS and Switch as direct competitors, Nintendo positioned them as complementary systems. The Switch was marketed as a hybrid console that could be played on the TV or on the go, while the 3DS was presented as a dedicated handheld device with a focus on portability and affordability. This distinction helped to differentiate the two platforms and appeal to different types of gamers. For example, someone who wanted a home console experience with the option of portable play might opt for the Switch, while someone who primarily wanted a handheld device for gaming on the go might choose the 3DS.

The 3DS's Strengths

Despite the launch of the Switch, the 3DS still had several strengths that kept it relevant in 2017:

  • Price: The 3DS was significantly cheaper than the Switch, making it more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
  • Game Library: The 3DS had a massive library of games, including many exclusive titles that weren't available on the Switch.
  • Portability: The 3DS was smaller and lighter than the Switch, making it easier to carry around.
  • Dual-Screen Gameplay: The 3DS's dual-screen setup allowed for unique gameplay mechanics that weren't possible on other consoles.

These strengths helped the 3DS maintain a solid presence in the gaming market, even as the Switch gained momentum.

A Successful Year

Overall, 2017 was a successful year for the Nintendo 3DS. While the Switch may have stolen some of the spotlight, the 3DS continued to offer compelling games, special edition consoles, and a unique handheld gaming experience. Nintendo's dual-focus strategy proved to be effective, allowing both platforms to thrive in the market. The 3DS demonstrated its staying power and cemented its legacy as one of the most successful handheld consoles of all time.