Introduction
Since its release in 2011, the Nintendo 3DS XL has been a popular choice among handheld gaming enthusiasts for its larger screens and enhanced gaming experience. However, in 2015, Nintendo introduced the New 3DS XL, an upgraded version of the original console with several improvements and new features. This led to the question: is the upgrade to the New 3DS XL worth it for existing 3DS XL owners or those considering purchasing a new handheld console?
In this in-depth blog, we will thoroughly compare the 3DS XL and the New 3DS XL to help you make an informed decision about whether the upgrade is worth it. We will analyze various aspects, including design, display, performance, features, software compatibility, customization options, price, and availability, to assist you in choosing the best handheld gaming console that suits your preferences and gaming needs.
Nintendo 3DS XL: A Look Back at a Gaming Classic
The Nintendo 3DS XL, released in 2012, was an enhanced version of the original 3DS, which made its debut the previous year. It quickly gained popularity among gamers for its larger screens, improved battery life, and more comfortable grip compared to its predecessor.
The dual-screen display, with the upper screen offering autostereoscopic 3D capabilities, provided players with an immersive gaming experience like never before. By leveraging the innovative 3D technology, players could enjoy games with added depth and dimension, making them feel more engaged in their gaming worlds.
Moreover, the Nintendo 3DS XL was backward compatible with Nintendo DS games, expanding the gaming library even further. Iconic titles like Super Mario 3D Land, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, and Pokémon X and Y became instant favorites among players, solidifying the 3DS XL’s position as a must-have gaming console.
New Nintendo 3DS XL: Introducing the Next Generation
In 2015, Nintendo unveiled the New Nintendo 3DS XL, which served as an upgraded iteration of the 3DS XL. While retaining the same overall design and larger screen sizes, the New 3DS XL brought several substantial improvements and new features to the table.
The most notable upgrade was the introduction of a faster CPU, which resulted in a smoother gaming experience with reduced loading times and better overall system responsiveness. Games that were optimized for the New Nintendo 3DS XL also benefited from improved visuals and frame rates, enhancing the gaming performance even further.
In addition to the upgraded CPU, the New Nintendo 3DS XL featured new shoulder buttons – ZR and ZL – alongside the existing L and R buttons. This addition expanded the control options for certain games, allowing for more complex gameplay mechanics and improved performance in action-oriented titles.
The New Nintendo 3DS XL also boasted a more stable autostereoscopic 3D display. The improved 3D effect reduced the “ghosting” effect experienced on the original 3DS XL, making the 3D experience more enjoyable and comfortable for players. Face-tracking technology was introduced to ensure that the 3D effect remained stable even with slight movements, addressing one of the primary concerns of the original 3DS XL users.
Furthermore, the New Nintendo 3DS XL featured a built-in NFC reader, allowing players to scan their amiibo figurines directly on the console. This provided an interactive element to gaming, unlocking various in-game bonuses, such as new items, costumes, or additional content.
Design and Display: Size Matters
The design and display of a handheld gaming console significantly impact the gaming experience. The Nintendo 3DS XL and the New 3DS XL share a similar design, with a clamshell form factor and dual screens – the upper screen for 3D gaming and the lower screen for touch-based controls.
The Nintendo 3DS XL featured a larger size compared to the original 3DS, with screens that measured approximately 4.88 inches for the upper display and 4.18 inches for the lower display. The increased screen size allowed for a more immersive gaming experience and provided a larger canvas for developers to create visually stunning games.
On the other hand, the New Nintendo 3DS XL retained the same screen size as its predecessor. However, despite the identical size, the 3D display on the New 3DS XL was significantly improved. The addition of face-tracking technology and a more stable 3D effect meant that players could enjoy the 3D experience without having to maintain a precise “sweet spot” to avoid visual distortions.
Both consoles offer adjustable 3D settings, allowing players to customize the level of 3D depth or even turn off the effect entirely. This customization option catered to players who either preferred a stronger 3D effect or those who opted for a traditional 2D gaming experience.
The decision between the Nintendo 3DS XL and the New Nintendo 3DS XL boils down to personal preference. If you prioritize a larger screen for gaming and media consumption, the 3DS XL may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you value an enhanced and more stable 3D display experience, the New 3DS XL is the clear winner.
Performance: The Power of the New Nintendo 3DS XL
The New Nintendo 3DS XL’s most significant advantage over its predecessor lies in its enhanced performance. The upgraded CPU, while not as powerful as modern gaming consoles, brought a noticeable improvement to the gaming experience.
Games optimized for the New 3DS XL benefited from the faster processor, resulting in smoother frame rates, shorter loading times, and improved overall performance. Titles like Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, and Fire Emblem Warriors demonstrated the console’s capabilities, providing an enjoyable and fluid gaming experience.
Furthermore, the enhanced performance of the New Nintendo 3DS XL allowed for more complex game mechanics, larger game worlds, and improved graphics. Developers could harness the extra processing power to create richer and more detailed gaming experiences, pushing the boundaries of what the 3DS family of consoles could achieve.
If you are a discerning gamer who values performance and the best possible gaming experience, the New Nintendo 3DS XL is a compelling upgrade.
Face-Tracking Technology: Enhanced 3D Gaming
One of the primary criticisms of the original Nintendo 3DS XL was the limited viewing angles for the autostereoscopic 3D display. Players often had to maintain a precise “sweet spot” in front of the console to fully experience the 3D effect without any distortion or ghosting.
The New Nintendo 3DS XL addressed this issue with the introduction of face-tracking technology. Utilizing the front-facing camera, the console can detect the player’s face and adjust the 3D display accordingly. This innovation meant that the 3D effect remained stable even with slight movements, providing a more comfortable and enjoyable 3D gaming experience.
With the face-tracking feature, players no longer had to worry about maintaining a fixed position to experience the 3D effect correctly. The console could dynamically adjust the 3D display to match the player’s perspective, making it easier to immerse oneself in the virtual worlds of 3D games.
If you appreciate the 3D gaming experience and want to enjoy it without any limitations, the New 3DS XL with face-tracking technology is the ideal choice.
Amiibo Support: Tapping into Interactive Gaming
Nintendo’s amiibo figurines became a sensation among gaming fans and collectors. The New Nintendo 3DS XL introduced a built-in NFC reader, allowing players to scan their amiibo figurines directly on the console.
When an amiibo is scanned, it interacts with compatible games, unlocking various in-game bonuses, such as new outfits, items, or additional content. For example, in The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D, players could tap the Link amiibo to receive helpful in-game items.
Amiibo support added an interactive element to gaming, encouraging players to collect and utilize their amiibo figures across various games. This feature catered to both young and seasoned gamers, providing additional content and rewards for using amiibo in their gaming adventures.
Additional Shoulder Buttons: Enhanced Control Options
The addition of two new shoulder buttons – ZR and ZL – alongside the existing L and R buttons was one of the notable upgrades in the New Nintendo 3DS XL. This enhanced control scheme opened up new possibilities for gameplay mechanics and improved performance in specific games.
For example, in action games like Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, the additional shoulder buttons allowed for more intuitive control of camera angles and quick access to various actions. Similarly, in platformers like Super Mario 3D Land, players could map different abilities or actions to the extra shoulder buttons, enabling more fluid and precise gameplay.
The availability of the extra shoulder buttons provided developers with more options when designing games, resulting in enhanced gameplay experiences tailored to the New Nintendo 3DS XL’s unique capabilities.
If you enjoy action-oriented games or titles that require multiple inputs and actions, the additional shoulder buttons on the New Nintendo 3DS XL offer a significant advantage.
Software Compatibility: A Limiting Factor Nintendo 3DS
While both the Nintendo 3DS XL and the New 3DS XL are compatible with the entire library of games, some games and applications are exclusively designed for the New 3DS XL due to its improved hardware.
Games like Xenoblade Chronicles 3D and Fire Emblem Warriors were exclusively released for the New 3DS XL due to their technical requirements and performance optimizations. These games showcased the console’s enhanced capabilities, providing more expansive worlds and improved visuals compared to the original Nintendo 3DS XL.
However, it’s important to note that the majority of 3DS games were developed with the original 3DS hardware in mind. While the New 3DS XL enhances the gaming experience in certain titles, many games still run perfectly fine on the original 3DS XL without any performance issues.
If the exclusive titles or the prospect of playing select games with improved performance appeals to you, the New 3DS XL is a tempting upgrade.
Customization: Personalizing Your Handheld Nintendo 3DS
Customization options are another aspect that sets the Nintendo 3DS XL and the New Nintendo 3DS XL apart from other gaming consoles. Both handhelds offer interchangeable faceplates, allowing players to change the appearance of their consoles easily.
With a wide variety of faceplates featuring different colors, designs, and themes, players can personalize their handhelds according to their preferences and style. Whether it’s a classic Nintendo design, a favorite gaming character, or a unique pattern, the range of faceplates caters to diverse tastes.
The ability to customize the handheld adds a personal touch to the gaming experience, making it feel more unique and enjoyable. Players can switch between faceplates to match their mood or interests, turning their gaming console into a statement of personal expression.
If you value customization and the ability to change the look of your handheld to suit your tastes, both the Nintendo 3DS XL and the New Nintendo 3DS XL offer this exciting feature.
Price and Availability: A Factor to Weigh Nintendo 3DS
Price and availability are crucial factors to consider when deciding between the Nintendo 3DS XL and the New XL. As the New Nintendo 3DS XL was released after the Nintendo 3DS XL, it is generally more readily available in stores and online retailers.
The prices of both consoles may vary depending on the region and time of purchase. While the New 3DS XL initially commanded a premium due to its newer hardware and enhanced features, the difference in price has likely reduced since its initial release.
When evaluating the cost, consider the improvements and exclusive features of the New Nintendo 3DS XL that justify its potentially higher price tag. Additionally, keep in mind that new consoles might come with bundled games or special promotions, adding further value to the purchase.
Conclusion Nintendo 3DS
In conclusion, the decision to upgrade from the Nintendo 3DS XL to the New 3DS XL depends on various factors, including personal preferences, gaming priorities, and budget constraints.
The Nintendo 3DS XL is a fantastic gaming console, offering larger screens and an extensive library of great games, making it a worthwhile investment for both casual and hardcore gamers alike. It remains a beloved classic that provides countless hours of entertainment and nostalgia.
On the other hand, the New Nintendo 3DS XL brings significant improvements to the gaming experience, such as enhanced performance, a more stable autostereoscopic 3D display, face-tracking technology, and amiibo support. These upgrades make it an appealing choice for players seeking the best possible gaming performance and those interested in the unique features offered by the New 3DS XL.
Ultimately, both the Nintendo 3DS XL and the New XL are exceptional handheld gaming consoles that have brought joy and excitement to millions of players worldwide. Whether you choose to stick with the 3DS XL or upgrade to the New XL, rest assured that you are entering a world of thrilling gaming adventures that will keep you entertained for years to come. Happy gaming!
