The Nintendo Switch 2 launched in 2024, yet a blast from the past is capturing attention in the gaming community: the Nintendo 3DS. Originally released in 2011, this handheld console is witnessing a significant surge in resale value, drawing the interest of collectors and nostalgic gamers alike.
Recent trends indicate that models like the “New” Nintendo 3DS and 2DS are selling for more on the used market than their original retail prices. Given the current trajectory, experts suggest that now might be an opportune moment for enthusiasts to acquire Nintendo’s last dedicated handheld console.
Several factors contribute to the escalating prices of the Nintendo 3DS. A key element is the ongoing nostalgia boom, as many former 3DS owners are now adults seeking to recapture their childhood experiences. Retro gaming is experiencing a renaissance, with devices such as the Evercade and Retroid Pocket gaining popularity. However, the Nintendo 3DS and its rival, the PS Vita, remain highly regarded for their extensive libraries of indie and retro games.
Production of the Nintendo 3DS came to an end in September 2020, and since then, no new units have been available for purchase. The New Nintendo 2DS XL model, which eliminated 3D functionality, marked the end of the line for the series. While it may be premature to label the Nintendo 3DS a retro console, its legacy is certainly solidifying, especially as the PS Vita, which was discontinued in 2019, has already been categorized as a retro handheld.
The unique 3D functionality of the Nintendo 3DS plays a significant role in its growing value. Although initially dismissed by some as a gimmick, the 3D capabilities were well-executed in the New 3DS models, providing a distinctive gaming experience. Titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Resident Evil: Revelations, and Sega 3D Classics showcased the potential of this feature, leaving a lasting impression on players.
The closure of the Nintendo 3DS eShop in March 2023 has further impacted its market. With digital purchases no longer possible, gamers are turning to physical cartridges, driving up the demand for used copies. The discontinuation of the ability to add funds to eShop cards in August 2022 signaled the impending shutdown, leading to the cessation of online services by April 2024.
The scarcity of digital games has created a surge in prices for physical copies, particularly for titles with limited production runs. Some sealed games are fetching exorbitant prices on secondary markets, with specific editions, like The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask Special Edition, reaching around $200 in online auctions.
Currently, consumers can still find more affordable options among the original 3DS and the basic 2DS models, but the New Nintendo 3DS and XL variants command higher prices. Notably, models equipped with dual IPS screens are considered the most desirable among collectors, with the smaller New Nintendo 3DS being the rarest of the bunch, often selling for between $300 and $400 on the used market.
As prices continue to climb, interest in the Nintendo 3DS shows no signs of waning. The nostalgia associated with the console is likely to attract even more gamers. Although the market may eventually peak, those looking to purchase a Nintendo 3DS may find themselves in a favorable position in the near future. For those indifferent to 3D features, the original 2DS model offers the best value, while dedicated fans of 3D gaming might consider investing in the more advanced New 3DS models.
