Nintendo has recently announced the Nintendo 3DS XL, a new version of their portable gaming system with an emphasis on adding 90 percent additional viewing area. The top screen measures 4.88 inches and the lower screen is now 4.18 inches. It also offers longer battery life which was part of the appeal of the Nintendo DSi XL. The memory card will also be increased to 4 GB.
The 3DS XL will include an AC adapter but no mention is made of the second analog stick peripheral nor was one included in this version. This is an interesting decision by Nintendo since they have an opportunity to include a second analog stick which would greatly improve playability of many games, but they are apparently seeking not to strike a negative chord with early adopters as they did following the early price cut of the 3DS.
The new handheld is coming in Black, Blue, and Red on August 19 in North America for $199, though it releases on July 28 in Japan and Europe. If you were a fan of the Nintendo DSi XL, then this may be the 3DS for you.
