And yet, despite any of the oddities of the DSi XL and whatever system Nintendo may or may not be releasing next year, the DSi XL works, and, despite the larger screen boasts better battery life than its predecessor. It has the feel of a system designed to suit adults more than children, and it's based on an already successful device, running what appears to be the exact same system software that the DSi sports. The XL also comes with the same software the DSi has as well as two Brain Age Express titles and Photo Clock. The buttons and D-pad have a good, neither too mushy nor too stiff, feel, and it uses the same charger as the DSi. Plus, it even fit in my jeans' back pocket.
Though we see no reason to upgrade from a DSi to a DSi XL, were we in the market for a new handheld console from Nintendo we would opt for the XL (and we certainly would not hold out for the 3D console). We might even opt for the XL were we buying for a younger child as, should they require help in a game, the wider viewer angle would then come into play.
The XL is a solid new entry into the DS lineup and absolutely worth considering despite any of the oddities that come along with it.
Article comments
1 - Jeff Paramchuk
I think something that's important to talk about is that for people to upgrade from the DSi to the XL, there's no way to have the DSi games you may have purchased and downloaded stay on both systems. It's a one time change from what I have heard. Quite frustrating actually.
2 - Seth
I have one of these on Kmart layaway, can't to get my hands on it.