The supersize Nintendo 3DS XL is a solid portable gaming device, but its thin game library keeps it from being a must-buy for existing 3DS owners and newcomers alike.

Despite a handful of missed opportunities, the 3DS XL is still the superior version of Nintendo's 3D-enabled handheld. It fits more comfortably in the hand, its 3D effect is more pronounced thanks the larger screens employed, battery life is improved and the whole unit is sturdier overall. However, we're incredibly disappointed by Nintendo's decision to leave out a charger, and we can't help but pine for a second control stick.

Perhaps as expected, the 3DS XL is an evolutionary step rather than a revolutionary one, and while there's no denying the benefits offered by the larger screens in providing a more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience, the lower resolution makes its success a rather qualified one. ...

Mit der 3DS XL walzt Nintendo seine mobile 3D-Konsole auf ein größeres Format aus. Das gewachsene Display ist eine willkommene Neuerung, enttäuscht aber durch eine stagnierte Auflösung. Nachdem die größere Konsole merklich teurer ist als die Original-3DS und aus Kostengründen nicht einmal ein Ladegerät im Lieferumfang enthalten ist, sollten potenzielle Käufer auch die normale Nintendo 3DS in Betracht ziehen.

The 3DS XL makes more sense than the original 3DS ever did. Why? Because the last 12 months have seen enough worthwhile content released. The larger screen is better to use, despite the resolution remaining the same. The 3D feature might be fun for some, but we left it switched off for almost all gameplay - so if 3D doesn’t appeal you needn’t worry, the 3DS XL has all bases covered. While the XL might not look as timeless as the original Gameboy, we found it a lot of fun. Its one big error, particularly for first time buyers, is the lack of a charger in the box.

The 3DS XL is a portable gaming professional with much to recommend about it, a whopping great screen and a decent raft of games being high among them. While smartphones reign the masses, the 3DS has proven there is still a market for dedicated gaming handhelds for at least the near future. ...

The whole debate over dedicated gaming handhelds in a world of tablets and smartphones aside, the 3DS XL is a vast improvement over the original 3DS. It’s more comfortable to hold, the 3D effect works better on the larger screen, and games are that bit more immersive. However, these enhancements will cost you an extra £50, and the decision not to add a second analogue stick when the system could obviously do with one is – frankly - bizarre. This is a better version of an already fine handheld with a good and growing line-up of software, but in some respects it’s still something of a missed opportunity. It’s the best 3DS so far, but maybe not the definitive version.

Though it's a bit pricey, the Nintendo 3DS successfully offers a glasses-less 3D experience that needs to be seen to be believed. A weaker-than-usual launch lineup and some inactivated online features dampen its launch, but the future certainly looks bright.