This whole thread seems kind of weird.
The 3DS can't cannibalize the Switch, because the two systems are targeting two completely different markets. Yes, both systems can be portable, but while 3DS is designed from the ground up to be a portable, the Switch is a home console too, and this is manifested in its library and price.
The cheapest model of 3DS is $80, while the Switch will be sold at $300, minimum. That in and of itself puts the Switch out of reach of a substantial number of consumers who can afford a 3DS because there are plenty of consumers out there when can't afford to drop $300'on a game console.
3DS gaming experiences are smaller. Literally. There will be nothing on 3DS like Skyrim, or Breath of the Wild, or Mario Odyssey, or Xenoblade 2. 3DS mostly specializes in smaller experiences. Anyone who wants a bigger experience on the go will NEED a Switch.
And really, when you compare the two system's announced titles, I don't really see how anyone can complain. 3DS is getting downports of a Yoshi game, a Fire Emblem spin off, a few localizations of games like Dragon Quest 8, and some genuinely new releases like Fire Emblem Echoes, Ever Oasis, that Pikmin side scroller, and Mario Sports Superstars. Meanwhile, Switch is getting a new Zelda, and new Mario, a new Xenoblade, a new Splatoon, an enhanced port of Mario Kart 8, and even a brand new IP in Arms, all this year. Not to mention a new Fire Emblem in 2018, PLUS the best version of Fire Emblem Warriors. So, basically, entries in all of Nintendo's biggest or coolest IPs, versus some downports and spin offs. 3DS is getting the left overs (albeit I'm sure many of these games will be good), while Switch is set for the main course. Nintendo ain't exactly diverting resources from their top dev teams to make a new Mario Kart or Zelda title for 3DS.
And hell, this is not even counting the titles that will probably be announced between now and E3.
With the 3DS exploding in popularity right now, I'm relieved Nintendo isn't abandoning it. It's clearly got a lot of life left in it, and I'd love to see it move another 5 million units, or more. Nintendo needs a product for the low income consumer, and they need something to keep revenue flowing if the Switch doesn't click. I'm sure Nintendo will eventually move away from the 3DS, but they won't do it for the Switch. They will do it for a smaller, cheaper Switch compatible device that comes closer to the 3DS form factor. Who knows, maybe it'll even be compatible with 3DS titles too. :D
