DSi
Nintendo's just released launch information and pricing for the Nintendo DSi XL. The DSi XL is Nintendo's newest take on their portable DSi handheld console. The primary difference in the new DSi, named the DSi XL (DSi LL in Japan), is it's overall larger design. For users, this means a nearly 20% fuller pocket. But the benefit can be seen, literally, in the significantly larger dual screen displays, which each measure 4.25 inches diagonally. This is no doubt an upgrade that tries to compete with Sony's Playstation Portable (PSP) by providing gamers with a larger, more comfortable gaming experience. One thing we'd like to know is if the larger touch screen comes with a finer degree of control and sensitvity when using the stylus, or if it is simply a magnification of the current DSi model.
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Nintendo DSi XL Measurements
From these initial images (courtesy of Nintendo) it is clear that there are several other design alterations to the Nintendo DSi LL. The second most prominent, next to the larger dual screens, is the choice of a more "pen-like" stylus, complete with pocket clip. This will hopefully provide a more comfortable game play experience especially when enjoying games like Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, which is controlled exclusively by the DSi stylus.
Additional design changes in the Nintendo DSi XL include reorganized speaker outputs, which leaves us hoping that improved speakers might be engineered into the unit. The Dsi XL adopts the same designs as the original DSi when it comes to button layouts with the only difference being their proximity due to the larger 4.25" screens.
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Nintendo DSi XL compared to the current DSi model.
As seen above, the overall size of the new Nintendo DSi XL is actually quite substantial when compared to the original DSi. Whether or not this will be well received by portable gaming fans is larger going to be decided on an individual basis. Those that enjoy the compact design of the current Nintendo DSi XL may not want to invest into a larger version. On the other hand, if you're worried about your eyesight from all that squinting than the significantly larger dual screens will most likely be the primary selling point for the new Nintendo DSi XL.
The Nintendo DSi XL will be on sale March 28, 2010 to its American audience for $189. The new system launches in both Burgundy and Bronze colors, and comes loaded with pre-installed premium software Brain Age™ Express: Arts & Letters, Brain Age Express: Math and Photo Clock, as well as two free applications: the Nintendo DSi Browser and Flipnote Studio™. Although sold seperately, America’s Test Kitchen: Let’s Get Cooking and WarioWare™: D.I.Y. will also launch for the Nintendo DS family of products on March 28.
With the Nintendo DSi being less than a year old, there seems to be some market pressure that Nintendo is responding to. According to analysts, demand for the DSi is lagging behind Nintendo's expectations, and Nintendo's portable is facing stiff competitive pressure from the iPhone and iPod Touch. Additionally, it's presumed that Nintendo will target this new Nintendo DSi XL to the elderly, because it will be easier to read. The new Nintendo DSi XL will not replace the existing DSi at retail; instead, the new version of the system will sell alongside the current DSi.
Popular Nintendo DSi Games:
| Legend of Zelda, The: The Phantom Hourglass (DS) | Wario Ware Inc. Touched! (DS) | Pokemon Pearl (DS) | Pokémon Platinum (DS)
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