Why are you all complaining about just a silly little console? Sure it might look dumb, but as other said its for a younger audience, that way its more strong and doesn't snap in half, which is why it doesn't have hinges. They also got rid of the 3d because it can hurt eyes of children.
Basically, this isn't for teenagers/adults, its more based around children under 7. Also it's cheaper, likely because they got rid of the 3d and such.