As anyone who rushed out to buy one will know, the new Nintendo 3DS XL console was released in Europe around three months ago in July 2012. In this surprisingly short amount of time, the console has not only become hugely popular but it has changed the way Nintendo 3DS games are played forever.
As you may know, the Nintendo 3DS XL was released as a larger version of the portable Nintendo 3DS console, with a larger screen and increased external dimensions. To demonstrate its features and the improved gaming experience it could offer to users, the Nintendo 3DS XL was released alongside the New Super Mario Bros 2 title.
Users found that the game was easier to play and more enjoyable on the Nintendo 3DS XL’s bigger screen, as smaller details could be picked out and enhanced to provide a richer playing experience. It also provided greater depth to the screen’s already stunning 3D visuals.
New games and applications
Alongside Super Mario games, there have been a few other notable titles released on the Nintendo 3DS XL. A key example is the latest instalment of the Professor Layton puzzle-adventure series, Professor Layton and the Mystery Mask. Other games and applications released for the console since its release include:
- A rebooted version of Super Mario 3D Land
- New Art Academy – developed especially for the Nintendo 3DS XL console
- Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2 (available to play on both the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS system families)
Slicker design
Other developments in the Nintendo 3DS XL console include new colours and a slicker design, especially compared to early versions of the Nintendo 3DS. Reviewers have particularly enjoyed the thumbprint-resistant matte finish of the console, along with its gently rounded edges, sleek silhouette and easier-to-use shoulder buttons.
What’s next for the Nintendo 3DS XL?
There are a few new developments to look out for with the Nintendo 3DS XL, including:
- New colours just in time for Christmas, such as Nintendo 3DS XL White with Mario Kart 7 pre-installed (released November 16th 2012) and Limited Edition Nintendo 3DS XL Pikachu Yellow (available later this year).
- The release of new titles such as Nintendo presents: New Style Boutique (launched November 16th 2012)
Also, if you happen to live in Japan, you will have heard that Nintendo is planning to enhance the gaming experience with the release of a specially designed, extra large Circle Pad Pro add-on for the Nintendo 3DS XL.
