The context? Super Smash Bros. 4

For Smash fans, it has been a controversial decade. Since the dawn of competitive Smash, it has felt as though Nintendo has been working against us. Melee remains to be the biggest in the series, with the newest installment merely trailing behind. Yet, I’ve had hope for the game, and as of this Spring have owned my own copy to train with. While the 3DS version isn’t much compared to the Wii U version, I will say that I’m happy with my investment in a 2DS: and here’s why.

My Rating:

4/5

Pros: Circle Pad provides advantage - ergonomically-friendly bumpers and overall size.

Cons: Lack of C-stick - connectivity issues - bumpers inaccurate.

The Good Stuff!

My first impression of the device wasn’t much considering I initially wanted the small-and-portable 3DS. The design of the 2DS appears more klunky, but it’s really just as portable if you don’t need to keep it in your pocket. In the meantime, I’ve been training with the “trigger grips” accessory and it has proven useful at times. Without it, the 2DS can feel awkwardly-shaped; as if you’re about to drop it. The trigger grips effectively allow you to hold the 2DS at a lower position, giving your thumbs less of a stretch. The circle pad is one of the best control mechanisms I’ve experienced, as its inwards contour works to keep your thumb in place while it whips back and forth. Essentially, this combination of portability and ergonomics is close to the best way to play Smash 4 – there’s a catch.

The Bad Stuff!

Unfortunately, the investment you make into this system isn’t going to stay with you to the top of the tournaments. Like I said, I used this system to train with, and it’s brought me incredible insight into the game. However, there are times when I had trouble using the bumpers. Having played other games on this system, I have concluded that the problem lies in the trigger grips accessory: The bumpers are covered up when it’s on, so the accessory basically has to extend the bumpers out through a plastic mechanism that is in no way reliable. This has caused me to dash when I intended to roll, and can be frustrating. The 2DS alone may be better than using the accessory.

As if that wasn’t enough of a problem, there are connectivity issues present in this system, and henceforth I have yet to use it in a competitive setting. The process involved with the connection is hefty enough, as you’ll need to log in from the main menu rather than the character selection screen, as you do with any other controller. Also, you can experience lag that is worse in comparison than using a Wii Mote. At only one point have I ever experienced an adequate connection to a Wii U, but the lag is always present, so you’re better off using something else if you expect to compete.

Likewise, without a C-stick, your options are even further limited. There are plenty of times while playing that I wish I could perform a forward-aerial while floating backwards. Only on newer 3DS’s and GameCube controllers can you do so, so in the meantime, I’ll just settle for impromptu back-air’s. Not to mention, the 2DS experiences very noticeable load times, so you will be waiting a bit in between matches, but now I’m really ragging on the system.

By all means, if you are looking for a cheap way to learn how to play Smash 4, I would say go for this option. You won’t get all the best stages and you won’t know all the best moves, but the 2DS-trigger grips combo will absolutely break you in to the competitive scene.