The Nintendo 2DS is an entry-level version of the Nintendo 3DS which maintains otherwise identical hardware, similar functionality, and compatibility with software designed for the Nintendo DS and 3DS. However, the 2DS is differentiated by a new slate form factor rather than the clamshell design used by its precursors, its use of a single touchscreen LCD panel instead of two individual panels, and by lacking the Nintendo 3DS's signature autostereoscopic 3D display. The 2DS is sold concurrently with existing 3DS models as an incentive to expand the market for Nintendo 3DS games; Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime stated that the 2DS was primarily targeted towards younger players (such as those younger than age 7), whom they had previously advised not to use the 3D functionality on the 3DS due to potential eye health concerns.

Nintendo officially unveiled the 2DS on 28 August 2013 via a press release; members of the press were given a chance to demo the device in private prior to the announcement.[5] With the 2DS, the company aimed to produce a device that would be "new, unique, different, and [bring] more people into this category that we love." Part of this goal was achieved by positioning the device at a lower price point than the 3DS; in North America, the system retailed at US$129.99 on launch, in comparison to the US$169.99 price of the standard 3DS. According to Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime, the Nintendo 2DS is primarily aimed at a younger demographic than the Nintendo 3DS — particularly, those younger than 7 years old; whom Nintendo had advised not to use the 3D features on the 3DS due to potential eye health concerns.