Flipnote Studio Mobile is a miracle of preservation—it’s incredible that Nintendo brought this cult classic to iOS and Android at all. For aspiring animators who want a cheap entry point, it’s fantastic. However, the interface friction of using a phone instead of a stylus-and-Dual-Screen setup is real.

As someone who spent countless hours on the DSi and 3DS versions, downloading Flipnote Studio Mobile felt like reuniting with an old friend. For the uninitiated, this is Nintendo’s official animation app that lets you create black-and-white flipbook-style cartoons with sound.

– A wonderful creative suite trapped in a slightly awkward mobile interface.

Here is the honest breakdown of whether it’s worth your time in 2024.

You have a tablet or a fine-point stylus, or you are desperate for that nostalgic DSi feel. Skip it if: You hate subscription models or only have your thumbs to draw with.