Recommended Free Tools
Yes. The original Nintendo 2DS plays Nintendo 3DS games in 2D and runs most Nintendo DS and DSi games. The main exception is certain DS games that require an accessory in the original DS’s Game Boy Advance (GBA) Game Pak slot, which the 2DS does not have.
Which games work on the original Nintendo 2DS?
| Game type | Compatibility | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo 3DS Game Card | Yes | Plays in 2D; the original 2DS has no stereoscopic 3D display. |
| Nintendo DS Game Card | Most games | Some titles that require an accessory in the original DS’s GBA slot are exceptions. DS games normally display at a lower resolution than 3DS games. |
| Nintendo DSi Game Card | Most games | DSi and DS software display in 2D and share the DS-game display and feature limitations below. |
| DS game requiring a GBA-slot accessory | Some titles do not work | The original 2DS has no GBA Game Pak slot for the accessory. Check the specific game’s instructions. |
Nintendo describes the 2DS as able to play all Nintendo 3DS games in 2D and lists Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo DSi, and Nintendo DS software as compatible in its 2DS product information and operations manual. Its DS compatibility guidance says “most” games work, not every title; it identifies games dependent on a GBA-slot accessory as exceptions: Nintendo DS compatibility support.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo 2DS - Crimson Red (Renewed) | $229.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo 2DS - Crimson Red - Nintendo Wii GameCube | $176.58 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo 2DS - Scarlet Red / White (Renewed) | $218.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Nintendo 2DS - Electric Blue 2 with New Super Mario Bros. 2 (Game Pre-Installed) - 2DS (Renewed) | $219.69 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Nintendo Handheld Console 2Ds - White/Red | $169.99 | Buy on Amazon |
How 3DS games look and play on a 2DS
3DS Game Cards run on the original 2DS, but their stereoscopic 3D effect is unavailable. The system displays the game in 2D, so the “2DS” name describes its display experience, not a restriction to DS-era games.
What to expect when playing DS and DSi games
- Lower resolution by default: DS and DSi games display at a lower resolution than 3DS games. To display a DS/DSi game at its original resolution, hold START or SELECT while the game is loading.
- No 3D: DS and DSi software does not display in 3D.
- Some system features are unavailable: The HOME Menu, StreetPass, and SpotPass cannot be accessed while DS/DSi software is running.
Nintendo explains these DS/DSi limitations in its compatibility support guidance. A game’s own manual is the best place to check for title-specific requirements.
#1 Best Overall
- USB Input: Not Available
- HDMI Output: Not Available
- WiFi Built In: Yes
- Graphic Quality: 240p
- Supported Flash Memory Cards: Secure Digital (SDHC)
Why some DS games are exceptions
The original Nintendo DS included a GBA Game Pak slot, and a small number of DS games use an accessory connected through it. The original 2DS has no such slot, so a DS game that depends on one cannot use that accessory on the 2DS. This exception concerns a DS game’s required accessory; it does not mean that GBA game cartridges can be played on a 2DS.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If you are looking for a 2DS
Nintendo says manufacturing of the 3DS family has ended. That does not establish which used or refurbished systems are currently available, so check a seller’s current stock and condition details before buying. Nintendo’s manufacturing notice appears on its 2DS product page.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
Rank #4
- The best of two worlds
- The Nintendo 2DS system brings the power of two systems together into a single, affordable package. Play games-both Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3ds-in 2D
- Connect with friends, other players, and wireless hotspots using the wireless StreetPass and SpotPass communication modes to unlock exclusive content for games and download other entertainment
Rank #2
- USB Input: Not Available
- HDMI Output: Not Available
- WiFi Built In: Yes
- Graphic Quality: 240p
- Supported Flash Memory Cards: Secure Digital (SDHC)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
