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The US is getting a SNES-themed new 3DS XL too
Turns out that SNES-themed 3DS XL isn't a Europe exclusive after all. As Twitter user @Wario64 (who else?) points out, the handheld is currently available for pre-order in the US for $199.99. It will ship a whole two weeks after the Europe release on November 27, but that's better than never, right? It also follows in the footsteps of the Super Famicom-inspired 3DS XL, which landed exclusively in Japan in March of last year. Okay, we'll stop rubbing it in. To add to the nostalgia, Nintendo is packing a download code for Super Mario Kart with the variant.
Nintendo's 2DS XL doesn't need 3D to be a solid handheld
Nintendo's latest portable, the New 2DS XL, isn't even out yet and people are already questioning its existence. Does the company really need another hand-held gaming console, especially with the recent launch of its hybrid Switch? For Nintendo, the answer is an obvious "yes," based on the belief that consumers want a 2DS with the form factor of a 3DS XL. At $150, the 2DS XL will slot in between these two models, which cost $80 and $200, respectively. So, what exactly do you get in return? If you're comparing it to the 2DS, the extra-large version is nearly identical, with the main difference being the clamshell design. Otherwise, they both come with the same processor, same battery, same low-resolution cameras and, well, you get the point.
Nintendo made a special 3DS XL for Pokémon Sun and Moon
You probably already have a Nintendo 3DS if you're waiting for the new Pokémon to drop. But if you're always on the lookout for special editions to add to your growing collection, you can get a Pokémon Sun and Moon-flavored New Nintendo 3DS XL on October 28th (or November 18th in the UK). This one's definitely for those who want something much simpler than the colorful bundle released for the franchise's 20th anniversary. It's just a black console with minimalistic illustrations of Sun's and Moon's legendaries, Solgaleo and Lunala.
Nintendo's 3DS gets its first streaming game this September
We've seen quite a bit of game streaming on PlayStation-branded products, but it looks like Sony will gain some possibly unexpected competition. In Japan, at least. When Nintendo 3DS owners in the region play Dragon Quest X Online (DQXO) come its September 4th launch, they won't be popping a cartridge into the system. No, like the massively multiplayer online (MMO) game's mobile version, DQXO on Nintendo's handheld will use streaming tech along the lines of PlayStation Now or OnLive instead of playing from a local cart or internal storage. As Tiny Cartridge reports, you won't be able to play in 3D as a result, and you'll constantly need a WiFi connection to access the game -- considering that this is an MMO, that should be expected anyway. However, if you'd rather lay down your cash for a physical bit of DQ gear instead, well, there's always this Metal Slime smartphone.
Korg DSN-12 turns your Nintendo handheld into a synthesizer, again
As we've seen before, Korg has a knack for bringing classic synth sounds to the screens of Nintendo's handhelds. Teaming up with Detune once again, the outfit is bringing the tones with the likeness of yet another iconic instrument to those wielding a 2DS, 3DS or 3DS XL. The new effort, Korg DSN-12, takes its inspiration from the company's MS-10 analog synth -- one that's fondly remembered for its bass and percussion chops. Here, a dozen monophonic sythesizers can be employed with a smattering of effects alongside a 64-step sequencer. There are multiple interfaces to sort through as well, including sequencer, synth knobs, patch panel, mixer and two oscilloscope sections to make use of Nintendo's dual-screen setup. What's more, thanks the 3DS' three-dimensional abilities, those oscilloscopes are rendered in 3D for even more eye candy. As you might expect, the stylus can be used to wrangle the app that stores up to 64 different sequences to recall later. No word on pricing for the software just yet, but expect it to arrive in September for your sample building pleasure.
Yes, of course Nintendo is releasing its Zelda-themed 3DS XL in the US as well
Quit sending those mean letters to your European cousins, full of bitterness and jealousy that they're getting a shiny gold Nintendo 3DS XL with the Triforce emblazoned on its outer shell this holiday and you're not. Not only is it rude, but it turns out that Nintendo's releasing the same 3DS here in North America alongside the launch of The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds on November 22nd (something you may have already surmised). You might get it in a nicely wrapped box, even! The bundle, game included, costs $220 (a $20 savings) and launches the same day as Xbox One -- though we get a feeling that the two consoles are marketed to slightly different crowds.
3DS XL gets more colorful in Japan, orange and turquoise are the new black
Given how many 3DS XL liveries Nintendo has teased of late, collectors are liable to go broke trying to catch 'em all. Fresh out of Japan is yet another pair of the gaming giant's extra large -- or LL -- handhelds , except this time they're sporting orange and black (just in time for autumn!) and turquoise and black color schemes instead of game-specific branding. Come November 28th, you'll have the privilege of dropping 19,900 yen ($204) for a bundle that includes a 4GB memory card, carrying pouch and the previously a la carte AC adapter. Sure, last year's bundles may have let you hunt monsters, but these new models are cheaper even after subtracting the price of a free game. Who said Nintendo never gave you anything?
This week on gdgt: Kindle Paperwhite 2nd-gen, Chromebook 11, and fitness trackers
Each week, our friends at gdgt go through the latest gadgets and score them to help you decide which ones to buy. Here are some of their most recent picks. Want more? Visit gdgt anytime to catch up on the latest, and subscribe to gdgt's newsletter to get a weekly roundup in your inbox.
Zelda's Triforce and Luigi's silhouette grace two new 3DS XL handhelds headed to Europe
The year of Luigi rages on with today's news that a Luigi-themed Nintendo 3DS XL handheld is headed to Europe next month. It joins a Triforce-emblazoned 3DS XL that's also set to arrive next month: the former on November 1st for £179.99 ($290) and the latter on November 22nd for £199.99 ($318). Of course, the Zelda-themed version is a touch more expensive as it packs in a code for upcoming 3DS game The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds (a game that would otherwise cost £33). We're still waiting to see EU-wide pricing. Neither edition is dated for release in North America just yet (the Luigi version is already available in Japan), but we suspect it won't be long before the special edition consoles are headed across the Atlantic. Should you wish to pick up one of the EU-bound handhelds, they'll only be available through Nintendo's new UK website.
Animal Crossing-flavored Nintendo 3DS XL bundle costs $220, arrives this June
A new Nintendo 3DS XL portable game console is headed to North America and Europe this June (in addition to Japan), and it's got a fancy limited-edition body intended to entice Animal Crossing fans. The $219.99 console bundle includes a digital copy of Animal Crossing: New Leaf -- the upcoming 3DS iteration of the long-running sim series -- and the new white console. For those playing along at home, the game itself costs $34.99 and a new Nintendo 3DS XL costs $199.99, which makes this limited edition bundle a steal all things considered (even without dragons). It's also quite a pretty device, so that certainly doesn't hurt either.
Charizard 3DS XL burns through Japan's Pokémon Centers in December, snag one if you're lucky
Nintendo is notorious for releasing awesome limited edition hardware abroad, but here in the US of A, we tend to get the short end of the joystick. Case in point, the house that Mario Miyamoto built is releasing a Charizard-themed 3DS XL on December 15th in Japan for ¥18,900 ($237). Available exclusively at Pokémon Center stores, aspiring buyers will need to complete an order form and win (yes, win) a drawing for a chance to purchase one of these beautiful monsters. Winners will have from December 15th through January 14th to claim and purchase their prize. As for you unlucky entrants, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in one of America's favorite pastimes -- buying Nintendo collectibles online at an extremely high markup.
Pika? Yes, pika: this very yellow Pokemon-themed Nintendo 3DS XL is heading to Europe this year
The incredibly bright, somewhat terrifying yellow Nintendo 3DS XL that Japan got last month is now heading to Europe, according to a Europe-specific Nintendo Direct press conference this afternoon (via Joystiq). The Pikachu-themed 3DS doesn't have a solid release date just yet, but it's said to arrive at some point in 2012. A price also isn't included (though it costs ¥18,900/$238 in Japan), nor is it known if the device will be exclusive to one retailer -- in Japan, you can only buy a 3DS XL plastered with Pikachu's indifferent smirk from a Pokemon Center. Regardless, it's clearly super, super cute, and we'll have more definite information on it soon. Does this mean it's coming to the US? Keep those poke-fingers crossed, trainers.
Nintendo releasing three new 3DS XL bundles in Japan
If you live in Japan and aren't already red-shelling on a Pokémon or risqué edition 3DS XL, maybe one of these three new bundles will inspire you. For the minimalists: the Monster Hunter Tri G bundle complete with all-black 3DS XL (known as the LL in Japan), releasing November 1st for 21,800 yen (approximately $280). Following one week later (on the 8th) is the Animal Crossing: Jump Out bundle with white and pattern handheld, setting you back 22,800 yen (approximately $290). And, for the same price, the pièce de résistance of the trio -- a New Super Mario Bros. 2 bundle with black and embellished red XL, expected November 15th. If you're the importing type, or just want to see how good the Japanese got it, then check out the gallery below and pick your favorite.
Circle Pad Pro for 3DS XL spotted at TGS, we go hands-on (video)
Nintendo is starting to make a habit of quietly releasing products at trade-shows they don't attend. Kyoto's premiere gaming outfit still isn't present on the TGS show floor, but Capcom has once again seen fit to trot out the firm's latest kit: The Circle Pad Pro for 3DS XL. Just like last year's model, this beefy cradle puts the already large 3DS XL outside the realm of pocket-ability, trading the handheld's slim profile for a luxuriously thick grip. Indeed, the fatty accessory makes the console quite comfortable to hold, adding a smooth, slightly contoured back, larger shoulder buttons and, of course, that all important starboard analog pad. The new Circle Pad's bulk is slightly more forgivable for the size of its host device. Yes, the attachment makes the XL a bit more unwieldily, but its supersized form already made it a non-contender for most pants pockets. Sadly, the accessory still sports its predecessor's greatest fault: it blocks the 3DS' cartridge slot. Gamers will have to get used to undocking their console, or else make a habit of buying more downloadable titles. Mum's still the word on pricing and availability, but the accessory was shown with a copy of Monster Hunter 4, which is due out in March of next year. We wouldn't be surprised to see it show up in early spring. Hungry for more? Check out our gallery below for an eyeful, or peek past the break for quick video overview. %Gallery-166218%
Nintendo circle pad for 3DS XL announced in Japan
Nintendo rather quietly announced that it'll be bringing the Circle Pad Pro to its colossal 3DS XL handheld. The release doesn't go into the specifics beyond confirming the eventual arrival of the accessory, which adds a second analog stick (and a few more centimeters of heft) onto the already roomy device. There's no word on pricing or availability, with both currently marked as "undecided," but hopefully the company will make its mind up before the start of the holiday season. The original Circle Pad add-on cost ¥1,500 ($19.50), so we expect this will run about the same amount. It's unclear thus far if the device will launch outside of Japan, but we expect to hear more shortly.
Pikachu Yellow 3DS XL to hit Japanese shores, require a pre-order for purchase
Nintendo handhelds are no strangers to new coats of paint -- or Pokemon, for that matter -- and now the firm is readying a Japan-exclusive Pikachu Yellow 3DS XL (officially the LL for locals). The brightly colored clamshell features a white interior and the electric rodent's visage on its lid with his tail trailing onto the underside. Priced at ¥18,900 (roughly $238), the portable will only be available at Pokemon Center stores throughout the Land of the Rising Sun on September 15th for those who pre-order between August 25 and its release. Gamers in North America may not be able to snap up the uniquely hued system, but this weekend's launch of the 3DS XL in red and blue could provide a small measure of consolation.
Engadget's back to school guide 2012: gaming
Welcome to Engadget's back to school guide! The end of summer vacation isn't nearly as much fun as the weeks that come before, but a chance to update your tech tools likely helps to ease the pain. Today, we're getting our game on -- and you can head to the back to school hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the month we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here! It's time to balance out that daily grind at school with some well-deserved leisure. Fortunately, many of our choices walk that fine line between work and play -- if you're willing to stump up some more cash beyond a normal laptop, you could get something capable of handling the latest PC titles. Some of our other choices may be a harder sell in the education stakes, but we all need some stress relief, right? And with bigger consoles nearing the end of their life cycles, there's never been a more wallet-friendly time to get involved. Jump in after the break for our favorite gaming choices. If all your money's been earmarked for learnin', then you should certainly enter our sweepstakes. Leave a comment after the break for a chance to win, and visit our giveaway page for all the details.
Nintendo's transparent 3DS XL poses for the camera, makes you wish you had one
We know what you're likely thinking: "I want this. I want it now" -- or, you know, something along those lines. Unfortunately, don't expect this transparent beauty to show up at retail stores when the supersized 3DS launches later next month, as it's nothing but a mere demo unit. The see-through XL was recently used by Nintendo to showcase the handheld's guts during a Q&A session on its website, and while it's currently just an extra-large test dummy, it could potentially be a sign of big things to come. We wouldn't hold our breath, though, so for now you'll have to be satisfied with one of those opaque options you have to choose from.
Nintendo 3DS XL sports less reflective screen than its predecessor, improved parallax effect
Supersized screens may be the centerpiece of Nintendo's 3DS XL, but a new Iwata Asks interview reveals that its top display packs some new anti-glare tech too. Takashi Murakami, from the company's Mechanical Design Group, notes that each of the LCD's three glare-prone layers were specially treated to reduce reflectivity from the original 3DS' 12 percent, down to three. According to head honcho Iwata, anti-reflection coatings have been on the Big N's radar since the GameBoy Advance era, but were typically abandoned because they were too pricey. The Q&A session also confirmed something we noticed when we put the handheld through the review gauntlet -- the larger display increases the parallax effect, which translates to a deeper looking 3D experience. If your current handheld's screen bounces too much light for your liking, the XL can take its place starting August 19th in North America.
Nintendo 3DS gets first downloadable titles next week: Super Mario and Brain Training sequels
As Nintendo attempts to get its eShop up to speed with Sony's PS Vita provision, it's finally announced a July 28th launch date for its first two downloadable games. Alongside the in-store release of the 3DS XL, the full versions of both Super Mario Brothers 2 and the latest iteration of Dr. Kawashima's Brain Age / Training will be available for online purchase in Japan, priced at 4,800 yen (around $61) and 3,800 yen ($48), respectively. Nintendo already offers a mixed bag of retro titles and demos to download, but this is the first time it'll wheel out fully-fledged 3DS games.
