I collect gaming handhelds and own several 3ds handhelds, modded and un-modded. I also have a modestly large collection of games. The modding potential is high, but even unmodded, the big draw for me is:
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Form factor. The non-xl version is very pocketable, and the XL takes up very little space in a backpack.
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Exclusive game selection. There are soooo many excellent titles. The Etrian Odyssey series. Shin Megami Tensei. Fire Emblem. Pokémon. Several Legend of Zelda titles. If you love classic RPGs there’s an abundance here. Sure, you could emulate, but I think there’s no replacement for playing these games as originally intended.
The biggest reason to stay away is obviously cost. I’ve paid up to $1200 usd for new in box examples, and even fairly chewed up 3ds handhelds can run you a couple hundred. The games are also highly collectible, and while there are many cheap titles to be found on eBay, most of the really desirable games can run you $50-$400 depending on condition, obviously with sealed games in brand new condition being extremely costly.
If funds are tight you’d be much better off emulating on one of many quality emulation devices. The market is rife with really good hardware for retro gaming.