The Nintendo 3DS XL, released in 2012, was a significant revision of the original Nintendo 3DS, offering a larger screen size and improved battery life. It built upon the 3DS's core feature of stereoscopic 3D without the need for special glasses, aiming to provide a more immersive handheld gaming experience. The XL model addressed criticisms of the original 3DS's smaller screens, making it more appealing to a wider audience and solidifying Nintendo's position in the handheld gaming market. Its release was strategically timed to bolster the 3DS family and counter competition from mobile gaming platforms.
The 3DS XL retained the dual-screen design of its predecessor, with a resistive touchscreen on the bottom and a glasses-free 3D display on the top. This innovative combination allowed for unique gameplay mechanics and user interface designs. The console's library featured a mix of new titles and enhanced ports of classic games, leveraging the 3D capabilities and dual-screen functionality. The 3DS XL became a commercial success, contributing significantly to the overall sales of the Nintendo 3DS family and ensuring its continued relevance in the gaming landscape. Its impact extended to the development of future handheld consoles, influencing design choices and feature sets.
Despite the emergence of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo 3DS XL maintains a dedicated following due to its extensive game library, affordable price point, and unique 3D capabilities. It remains a testament to Nintendo's innovation in handheld gaming and its ability to adapt to changing market demands. The 3DS XL is remembered fondly for its role in bringing 3D gaming to a wider audience and for its diverse and engaging library of games.
2012
NINTENDO
NINTENDO 3DS XL
๐ History & Legacy
โ๏ธ Specifications
- โ CPU: Dual-Core ARM11 MPCore
- โ GPU: PICA200 GPU
- โ RAM: 128MB FCRAM
- โ Storage: Internal flash memory (varies by model, generally 2GB or 4GB) + SD card slot
- โ Media: Nintendo 3DS Game Cards, Downloadable Software
- โ Display: Top screen: 4.88-inch autostereoscopic widescreen LCD, Bottom screen: 4.18-inch LCD touchscreen
- โ Resolution: Top screen: 800x240 pixels (400 pixels are allocated to each eye to enable 3D viewing), Bottom screen: 320x240 pixels
- โ Wireless: IEEE 802.11 b/g
- โ Camera: One inner camera and two outer cameras (0.3MP resolution each)
- โ Battery life: 3.5 - 6.5 hours (3DS software), 5 - 8 hours (DS software)
๐ฎ Top 10 Games
- โ The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
- โ Pokรฉmon X and Y
- โ Super Mario 3D Land
- โ Animal Crossing: New Leaf
- โ Mario Kart 7
- โ Fire Emblem: Awakening
- โ Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon
- โ Kid Icarus: Uprising
- โ Bravely Default
- โ Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
๐ก Curiosities
- ? The Nintendo 3DS XL has a screen that is 90% larger than the original 3DS.
- ? The **3DS XL** was released with a matte finish to avoid fingerprints.
- ? The **3DS XL** did not include an AC adapter in the box in some regions; it had to be purchased separately or used from a previous DS model.
- ? The **3DS XL** could play Nintendo DS games, making it backward compatible.
- ? The **StreetPass** feature allowed 3DS users to exchange data with each other when in close proximity, even when the system was in sleep mode.
- ? The **Nintendo eShop** allowed users to download digital games, demos, and applications.
- ? The **Activity Log** tracked play time and steps taken, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
- ? The **3D depth slider** allowed users to adjust the intensity of the 3D effect or turn it off completely.
- ? The **Circle Pad Pro** accessory added a second analog stick for enhanced control in certain games.
- ? The **3DS XL** was available in a variety of colors and special editions, including designs based on popular games.