New Nintendo 3DS/Nintendo 3DS XL - Are they worth it?

By @Monstercat
POSTED: 30 Aug 2014 15:28
BUMPED: 14 Jan 2015 22:09
CATEGORY: Gaming
FEATURED: Yes (@Monstercat)
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Information regarding the American release has been included below.

Hello, kiddies.

So yesterday Nintendo surprised us with fantastic news during a Nintendo Direct in Japan that they are going to upgrade the Nintendo 3DS with two "new" Nintendo 3DS models later this year.

Behold, the *new* Nintendo 3DS.

There is a lot to talk about, so let's get to it.

DESIGN

The design of the new Nintendo 3DS/XL takes some aesthetics from the Nintendo 3DS XL's design while still being a new and fresh design at the same time.

Several things have been changed throughout the design, such as:

•Placement of START/SELECT buttons
•Placement of Game Card Slot
•Placement of the Power Button
•Design of the Home Button
•Placement of Volume Button
•Placement of Charging Slot and Dock Connectors
•Placement of the IR blaster
•Placement of LED Notification Lights
•Placement of the microSD card slot
•Design of cameras
•Colored ABXY buttons

These design changes mainly complement the new design to make the experience much more immerseful and enjoyable.

The exterior design of the new Nintendo 3DS retracts from the glossy design from its predecesor, and instead features a much more enjoyable matte design, which was set forth on older DS systems such as the DSi and DSi XL. In contrast, the new XL will have a glossy design.

The new models also offer thinner and lighter form factors to that of its predecesors.

The ABXY buttons of the new Nintendo 3DS have been colored in green, blue, red, and yellow to pay tribute back to the original SNES controller, which I think is pretty cool.

The back covers of the new Nintendo 3DS (not the new XL) will be interchageable, allowing you to customize your new 3DS as you please. Back covers will be sold separately, which is great news for Nintendo, as this feature will become very appealing for kids, thus selling like hot cakes.

YES.

CUSTOMIZABLE HOME MENUS BABY.

NEW FEATURES

There are quite a new features with this new model, so let's take a look at them:

•New ZL/ZR buttons
•Improved screens (not the resolution, though, lolol)
•Slightly bigger screens for the new 3DS (not the new XL)
•Improved 3D effect (no more blurry 3D images)
•New C-stick (or as I like to call it, the Nintendo nipple.)
•New microSD card slot
•Faster CPU (don't get too excited)
•More RAM (yeah, don't)
•More efficient GPU
•Improved Wi-Fi antennas
•Improved "toy" cameras
•NFC for Amiibo (no one will get those, so let's move on)
•Full HTML5 browser
•7-hour battery life (for new XL; up to 6 with new standard model)
•PC communication through Wi-Fi (backup, transfer files, etc.)

If I missed one, make sure to tell me in the comments.

The new ZL/ZR buttons provide more intuitive and immersive control, and will serve very useful in some games, such as Smash Bros. for 3DS and other games coming in the near future.

The new Nintendo Nipple is basically another Circle Pad, but only an eighth of the size of one. It is located above the X-button on the left, making it extremely accessible. This new analog stick is useful for the left handed plebs who need the use of the Circle Pad for some games, such as Kid Icarus. That's right morons, no more Circle Pad Plus accessory!

Of course, the right-handed master race will be able to take advantage of both Circle Pads proficiently as well, providing a more immersive experience to future games.

The 3D effect has also been vastly improved, which means that there is no more "sweet spot" when viewing 3D. This is thanks to the improved screens and cameras, along with a sensor right next to the front-facing camera which tracks the motion of your ugly mug to determine how the 3D effect will be displayed. Sweet stuff, huh?

One other thing that is worth pointing out is that this new 3DS uses a microSD card instead of an SD card, but no need to worry. Simply transfer your files from your SD card to a microSD card through your computer and your stuff will be still usable after a System Transfer.

The new Nintendo 3DS/XL is also sanic fast compared to their respective older models, thanks to the minor specs improvements.

ARE THEY WORTH IT?

Yes, yes they are.

If you are owning the original 3DS and/or even the 3DS XL for quite some time now, it is definetly time to consider upgrading to the new 3DS models. The new controls, design changes, and improved specs definetly should make you want to upgrade.

If you don't have a 3DS yet, now is the best time to consider purchasing one.

What do you think about the new 3DS models? Vote here!

Check out the new Nintendo 3DS introduction video.

COLORS/PRICING/AVAILABILITY

The standard size New Nintendo 3DS will not be available in North America.

The only two colors confirmed for the New 3DS XL for North America as of now are red and black.

Woo!

Pricing for the new 3DS XL in North America will stay at the de facto price of it's older brother, at $199.

The new Nintendo 3DS XL will be available in North America on February 13th.

Keep an eye out for bundles!

ARE YOUR WALLETS READY?

Thanks for reading! Feel free to comment and upvote. Those things are appreciated!

2.1

+15 -1

Rlad116
19 Jan 2015 05:31

Wut.. With all this I was going to do it myself..

RubyGem1121
16 Jan 2015 23:24

I have A New 3DS. It plays Videos. And That's not only from YouTube. It doesn't play Full HD videos though. But It's still good. Seems to support MP4 video and 3GP video. Seems to work at double pace and It's very effective at not crashing, Therefore, It can honestly puts the YouTube App out of business!

All Aussies have one. But it's a highly heated topic. "Should I? or Shouldn't I?"

The Firmwire isn't any different. But recommended if you want more SPEED!
The Big and almost only BAD thing is that the SD card is now a Micro SD card. And It's in the Console itself. I REALLY don't like how They made a File Management System. I haven't even once connect my 3DS to the computer, And I kind of want my pictures.

That It for me.

(Sorry Monster cat, I Didn't want to Mini Review the new 3DS. But I'm just so happy with it).

Ruby out! XD.

Geminoid
15 Jan 2015 17:10

Nintendo, are you starting to take after Apple now?
Kidding.
The new 3DS looks nice, and I'm excited for all you people who can afford these buggers.
However this means the old 3DS is gonna be cheaper now... Finally. You guys and gals have fun with your new toys.

Monstercat
16 Jan 2015 02:43
In reply to Geminoid

I wish Nintendo would've also replaced the standard model with the standard New model.

I still think face plates and customization could be a huge selling point for the standard model in America.

jsa005
15 Jan 2015 16:20

Oh, you might want to add that the UK gets the New 3DS and the New 3DS XL on February 13th. The standard model will be £150 and the XL will be £180. Charger sold seperately.

Monstercat
16 Jan 2015 02:42
In reply to jsa005

I'll be sure to add that sometime soon.

jsa005
15 Jan 2015 16:08

The UK also got an awesome Ambassador edition (white standard N3DS, not XL, with charging cradle & special cover plates, no AC adaptor) for £180, available to selected Club Nintendo members, sadly I wasn't one of them. It was also a time-limited offer, it ended on 12 January 2015.

AlphaTr1force
15 Jan 2015 08:49

reggie i'm yours

OxygenDeficient
15 Jan 2015 01:29

WHY COULDN'T THESE COME OUT BEFORE CHRISTMAS XD Dang I want a new 3DS now agggh but I need a new computer shhhhhhhhhhhhhhoot! *sobs* Sounds like the web browser would be much more enjoyable on the new one hahahaaa.... The camera sounds better too.

Monstercat
15 Jan 2015 02:06
In reply to OxygenDeficient

I would've gotten it if it came out before Christmas.

I completely understand your frustration.

FancyPants
03 Sep 2014 01:18

Wait.

Is the html5 browser coming to the old 3ds model too?

Please say it is.

Monstercat
03 Sep 2014 02:59
In reply to FancyPants

Nope.

Requires more RAM and CPU power, which are available only on the new 3DS.

FancyPants
03 Sep 2014 03:45
In reply to Monstercat

Daaaaammmit.

jsa005
03 Sep 2014 16:26
In reply to FancyPants

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Divine Crusader
02 Sep 2014 00:59

Have to give it to Nintendo, their money schemes never fail.

Nin10doh98
01 Sep 2014 15:11

Me: New 3DS?
Some Guy: Yeah, any questions?
Me: Does it have a built-in C-Stick?
Some Guy: Yup.
Me: I'M BUYING IT.

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:44
In reply to Nin10doh98

Must be left-handed.

Nin10doh98
01 Sep 2014 19:23
In reply to Monstercat

HOW DID YOU KNOW.

jsa005
01 Sep 2014 14:57

I think the new 3DS takes design cues from the 2DS, BTW.

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:44
In reply to jsa005

Not really. It takes cues from the DSi and the original 3DS XL.

jsa005
01 Sep 2014 14:54

Also, I wonder if they're gonna release a new 2DS? My one's getting a bit old now and it's also a bit battered... :/

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:43
In reply to jsa005

Probably not, as Nintendo wants to keep the price tag of the 2DS as low as possible.

jsa005
01 Sep 2014 14:51

God, I hope they're gonna FINALLY release Flipnote 3D with these new models.
Wait, scratch that, I HOPE THEY RELEASE IT NOW. Ahem.

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:42
In reply to jsa005

Probably not. That seems to be cancelled at this point.

NillocSkywalker
01 Sep 2014 03:06

The only thing I give a crap about is the browser. I believe a good bit of that will end up coming to use normal users in many updates.

But, seriously, Nintendo? The system is crap and instead of fixing the problem, you're just making it slightly less crappy. I mean, it's technology is so freaking old, the pixel ratio makes me wanna puke, you still don't welcome just anybody to your e-shop, and you overcharge for your crap games and hardware. What the hell?! Just make a new system based on a smart device with reasonabley priced games and apps and watch teh moneys fly in.

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:41
In reply to NillocSkywalker

I do agree that, even with the specs improvements, the hardware is still pathetic.

But hey, they are considerable improvements compared to the older model.

Epifex
31 Aug 2014 22:34

I am mostly just disgruntled that they waited a month after I finally forked out for a 3DS just to dump this on me.

I mean, I might consider a trade-in, but those are usually ripoffs. I'll need some people to confirm whether or not the extra RAM and buttons are worth it practically before I make a decision.

Monstercat
31 Aug 2014 23:11
In reply to Epifex

The RAM has been doubled from 128 MB to 256 MB. Nothing fascinating at all.

And the new controls will be useful with some games in the near future.

So it is up to you. If I were you, I wouldn't buy it, because trade-ins are indeed ripoffs and your XL is practially brand new.

Epifex
01 Sep 2014 03:36
In reply to Monstercat

Well I've been a little offput as well by a slight wiggle my circle pad seems to have. It's able to rotate a little tiny bit to either side before holding in place, which makes it feel really loose and stuff, but I haven't used enough other circle pads to say if this is normal or not. How solid usually are they?

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:40
In reply to Epifex

I assume the controls of this newer model are significantly improved.

Epifex
02 Sep 2014 15:12
In reply to Monstercat

Which is another reason why I'm tempted. Is it possible to do a whole system transfer to another 3DS?

Monstercat
03 Sep 2014 00:24
In reply to Epifex

Yes it is, through System Settings.

It doesn't take a long time either, since all you'd transfer is your Nintendo eShop account, DSiWare, and NNID.

Your 3DS software will become usable after the transfer by just inserting the SD Card on the new system.

Epifex
03 Sep 2014 12:25
In reply to Monstercat

Well I guess I'll have to wait until they're released then ask some people who got one what their impression is.

Also, you say not to get excited about the RAM, but isn't double RAM a pretty big improvement? I mean, theoretically that's double the performance?

Monstercat
03 Sep 2014 20:48
In reply to Epifex

I can't get excited over 256MB of RAM.

let's be honest

Epifex
03 Sep 2014 20:59
In reply to Monstercat

I dunno. You could always just download more.

Samurai Bob
31 Aug 2014 17:49

In the video where they announced it, they also showed us some 3DS Xenoblade Chronicles gameplay while highlighting the features if the new 3DS.

Monstercat
31 Aug 2014 18:16
In reply to Samurai Bob

Yeah. And it also appears to be an exclusive.

That's my biggest fear with this new 3DS.

I really hope that Nintendo still gives great games to those who own the older model.

Sure, a few exclusives don't hurt, as that will spark sales, but I really hope that they don't begin to ignore the millions of others who already own the original 3DS.

To4oo4
31 Aug 2014 13:08

I'm only interested in the memory increase, the longer battery life, the customizable HOME menu, the better Wi-Fi antennas (?) , the better internet browser (>

) , and possibly the cool colored buttons (even though it makes them look like they're from an Xbox) .

Monstercat
31 Aug 2014 16:12
In reply to To4oo4

The colored buttons idea was actually pioneered by Nintendo with the SNES.

Sony and Microshaft copied it.

DripDrop
31 Aug 2014 06:32

I like the colored buttons a lot

Raisons du Coeur
31 Aug 2014 01:37

Before reading the blog or any comments, I'm going to say yes, yes, yes. This is the next system I'm buying. I love it already.

Monstercat
31 Aug 2014 03:09
In reply to Raisons du Coeur

My wallet is Reggie.

FancyPants
30 Aug 2014 22:40

Is the customizable home menu thing only for the new ones?

Monstercat
30 Aug 2014 23:42
In reply to FancyPants

Nope. That'll be available to everyone through a System Update later in October.

jsa005
01 Sep 2014 14:45
In reply to Monstercat

WOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOO
Will we old-3DS-and-2DS owners be getting the new #awesome #fullHTML5 browser too?

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:49
In reply to jsa005

Probably not.

I think the improved browser is only for the newer models, since the CPU is less crappy, and because of more RAM.

FancyPants
31 Aug 2014 03:19
In reply to Monstercat

YES. YES YES YES.

PLAINOLDLUIS
30 Aug 2014 18:17

The "Nintendo Nipple" brings something else to mind but that's a different story.

The real question is, Price tag (or estimated)? 'cause that's a whole lot of new stuff so I'm expecting it to be expensive.

Monstercat
30 Aug 2014 18:30
In reply to PLAINOLDLUIS

I assume that Nintendo will discontinue the original 3DS/XL models and just leave the 2DS as the entry device. This is what'll probably will happen:

Original 3DS/XL - discontinued or at clearance

2DS - $99
New 3DS - $169
New 3DS XL - $199

Or this may also happen:

Original XL - discontinued

2DS - $99
3DS - $129
New 3DS - $169
New XL - $199

But that's just what seems logically possible to me.

And I don't expect the price tag to increase. Just replacements to older models.

Star Shadow
14 Jan 2015 22:36
In reply to Monstercat

New XL - $199.

HECTOR ILLUMINATI CONFIRMED

HullBreach
30 Aug 2014 17:56

The important question is: when will 3DS Fit come out, so I can use the Wii Fit Trainer amiibo with it?

KylennR
30 Aug 2014 17:23

Bruh, this is some kind of hype. These things look pretty nice which is surprising. Glad Nintendo might be making a come back maybe this site will benefit.

Also, customizable home screens? I want to just take a moment right now. Does this actually mean that like you can save a picture from the Internet and set it as your home screen? Or are there like presets that come with the 3ds.

Lol I didn't even know this was a thing, but yeah they are looking pretty fly.

Monstercat
30 Aug 2014 17:32
In reply to KylennR

The customizable Home Screen functionality will become available to ALL 3DS systems (not just the new ones) later with a system update, along with an UI redesign.

The skins will become available to download or purchase through the Nintendo eShop, for around $1-2 at the most (ed. guess). They typically involve a wallpaper, UI design, and some kind of music in the background.

But yeah, I am super hyped for that.

See it demonstrated here.

jsa005
01 Sep 2014 14:53
In reply to Monstercat

Wa-wa-wait, we gotta PAY for these?
Sounds fair, I guess, but at least let us use our own pictures for free.

Monstercat
01 Sep 2014 15:50
In reply to jsa005

But it comes with system sounds and an UI design as well. And that takes effort to code, lol.

I assume there'll be some free ones, but most skins will probably cost around $1 or 2.

KylennR
30 Aug 2014 17:46
In reply to Monstercat

Sounds awesome my bro.

Waffle King
30 Aug 2014 16:55

I'm hoping they call it the Super 3DS. Because the SNES buttons. I heard that they doubled the 3DS specs. I think they'll essentially be the DSi's of the generation.

Icarus
02 Sep 2014 22:10
In reply to Waffle King

Nah; they need to come up with something as new and amazing as internet on a DS was when the DSi happened. Maybe flash player and bluetooth sound output? Hm. Still not enough.

New Nintendo 3DS/Nintendo 3DS XL - Are they worth it? -[color=red] Updated[/color]

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