When we first heard about Nintendo’s new DSi Xl we thought they must have been going mad, taking a backwards step by releasing a larger console while the rest of the world are going smaller. Those thoughts soon shot out of the window though when we actually got our grubby mitts on one to test.

The Good

The first thing we noticed was return of the glossy finish on the top of the console, even if it does make it a little more fingerprint prone than the matt finish of the DSi, it certainly looks sleek. While underneath the XL is a rough, matt finish that provides greater grip than any of it’s predecessors.

Flipping back the DSi XL’s lid reveals it’s jewel in the crown, two huge bright screens which set to bed any fears we had about the XL. The sheer difference of the 4.2 inch screen when placed side by side with a DSi’s 3.25 inch is striking, the XL was visibly clearer and colours more vivid. Playing New Super Mario Bros on both showed us just how much of a better experience it was on the bigger screens, the larger graphics allowing for more precise movement and timing, there was no comparison between the two. The viewing angle of the screens has also been improved which is great if you ever find yourself sharing a game.

Of course the XL’s bigger frame also allows for a little meatier speakers, it certainly made more racket than it’s little brothers. Even though it is larger Nintendo have kept the d-pad and buttons the same size as the DSi which actually makes for a more comfortable hold, especially if playing for extended periods.

The XL comes packaged with two stylus options, the standard variant which is nearly identical to the DS Lite and Dsi but slightly longer, the other is a stylus that bears an uncanny resemblance to a writing pen, right down to the imitation pocket clip at the top, which was very accurate but maybe a bit bulky for fast paced games.

Software and load up times were identical to the DSi, with it boasting the same menu system and functions. The XL also comes with pre-loaded titles titles including Dr Kawashima’s Little Bit of Brain Training: Art Edition and Dictionary 6 in 1 with Camera Function. The XL has a lot of the same features as the DSi, same camera, SD card slot with the ability to download games from the Wi-Fi connection but battery life has been improved, managing to pack a few extra hours in over the DSi.

With it’s bigger screens the DSi XL is bigger and chunkier than the DSi and weighs 100g more, because of this it may be borderline whether it’ll fit into the average pocket but it still remains portable.

Conclusion

Bigger is definately better, the screens really set the XL apart, allowing increased detail and accurate touchscreen interaction it really does revitalise older games. The more comfortable grip and louder speakers also really sell it for us. If you are looking to upgrade from an earlier version or a first time buyer you certainly won’t be disappointed by what the XL has to offer.

The Nintendo DSi XL is available for pre-order now and goes on general sale on March 5th, we have heard that stocks are already showing signs of being limited so get in there early!

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