Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Interactive Gaming Figures Review: Are They Worth Buying?
It was a damp sort of morning, the kind where the garden looks like it’s had enough of your meddling. I’d been out trying to tidy the borders, but between the wind and the drizzle, it was a losing battle. So I came in, dried off, and put on a bit of Miles Davis to restore some calm.
On the table sat a small collection of Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Interactive Gaming Figures—the sort of things that promise to add a bit of magic to your games. Now, I’ve seen enough gadgets in my time to know that “interactive” often means “expensive ornament,” so I approached these with a healthy dose of scepticism.
What They Don't Tell You in the Ads
Let’s get straight to the concerns people have.
First, actual usefulness. These Interactive Gaming Figures—often tied to specific games—don’t work across everything. You’re not buying a universal upgrade here. In many cases, they only function with certain titles, which isn’t always made clear. That’s where disappointment creeps in.
Second, build quality. Some look quite smart in photos, but in hand, the quality varies. A few feel solid enough, while others are light and hollow. Not quite what you’d expect if you’re paying a premium for something “collectible”.
Third, size expectations. Quite a few buyers are surprised by how small these figures are. You see a well-lit image online and assume something substantial. What arrives is often closer to a small desk trinket.
The Norfolk Stress Test
I tested a handful of these figures with a Nintendo 3DS over several evenings.
Functionally, they work as intended—tap or scan, and the console responds. No issues there. It’s simple enough, no setup required, which is a blessing compared to some modern faff.
I left them overnight in the conservatory—temperature dropped to around 6°C. No warping or cracking, which speaks reasonably well of the materials.
In use, though, the novelty wears off rather quickly. You tap the figure, unlock something in-game, and that’s largely it. It’s not exactly a deep or lasting interaction.
As for their role as display items, some are pleasant enough to look at, though not particularly striking unless you’re already fond of the character.
The Annoyances
A few things begin to niggle after a while.
- Limited compatibility: Not all figures work with all games, which can feel restrictive.
- Lightweight feel: Some lack the heft you’d expect from a quality item.
- Storage clutter: They take up space, and unless you’re actively using them, they just sit there.
And if you’ve already got bits and pieces like a Hestia Goods Switch Case or a Tempered Glass Screen Protector lying about, these figures can start to feel like unnecessary additions.
Sifting Through the Amazon Reviews
A glance at Amazon reviews shows a fairly predictable pattern.
The 5-star reviews often focus on them being “giftable,” which is fair—they do make decent presents.
But the more balanced 3-star reviews mention:
- Figures being smaller than expected
- Limited in-game use beyond a one-off feature
- Concerns about value for money
On the positive side, collectors and fans of specific characters tend to report higher overall satisfaction.
The Brass Tacks (Questions You Lot Keep Asking)
Do these figures work with every Nintendo 3DS or 2DS game?
No, only specific games support them. You’ll need to check before buying.
Are they well made, or do they feel cheap?
Some are decent, others feel a bit light. It varies more than it should.
Are they worth it if you’re not a collector?
Probably not. The novelty wears off quickly if you’re not invested.
Do you need to set anything up to use them?
No, they’re straightforward—tap and go. At least that part isn’t a faff.
Who Should Walk Away?
If you’re expecting meaningful gameplay enhancements, these will likely disappoint.
Also, if you’re not interested in collecting or displaying them, they’ll quickly become clutter rather than value.
The Pensioner’s Verdict
The Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Interactive Gaming Figures are a bit of a mixed proposition.
They’re simple to use and can add a small bit of fun, but the limited functionality and variable build quality hold them back. For collectors or as a gift, they make some sense. For practical use, less so.
In short, they do what they’re meant to do—but not much more. Whether that’s worth your money depends entirely on what you expect going in.
Right, the tea’s getting cold and I need to check on the tomatoes.
Cheers,
William
