For the past three years, the handheld gaming market has been dominated by a single device: the Nintendo 3DS.
Nintendo's last on-the-go gadget brought stereoscopic 3D to the masses - but, even if it offered a massive boost in power over Nintendo's previous handhelds, the system wasn't perfect.
Now, Nintendo is set to release the New Nintendo 3DS XL: an updated version of the original 3DS XL with better hardware and the promise of stabilized 3D viewing. Is Nintendo's latest machine a worthy successor to the 3DS title, or is it just a stopgap between systems? We took a look at Nintendo's latest offering to compare.
When it comes to design, the New 3DS XL is largely the same as the 3DS XL. It still boasts the clam-shell design, analog stick and four-button layout of its predecessor, but don't let that fool you: Nintendo made some important updates when it designed the New 3DS.
Size is usually the first thing people notice when switching to a new device, but despite the casing of the New 3DS XL being slightly larger than that of the original, most people probably won't notice or care. It's a big enough difference to require new accessories, but otherwise, the size difference between the original 3DS XL and the New 3DS is negligible.
What's more important are the new button layouts, the new 3D features and the analog nub. The new additions to the controls and button layout are mostly successful, and the new 3D effect is mind-blowing...however, the analog nub won't be as universally loved as Nintendo might hope. Overall, it still feels like a Nintendo 3DS...it's largely the same device, just a bit different in certain places.
If you don't care about increased download speed or the enhanced 3D effect, it's hard to recommend the New Nintendo 3DS XL. However, if you've been waiting for the updated handheld and its faster processing, new controls and a 3D effect that works, this is exactly what you've been looking for. Even if it's your first handheld, go ahead and grab the New 3DS - not only are you future-proofing your mobile gaming library, but you'll also be getting Nintendo's best handheld to date.
