Nintendo has (somewhat predictably) revealed the next iteration of their 3DS handheld, the 3DS XL.
Like the last handheld generation's DSi XL, the 3DS XL comes with larger screens—at 4.88 and 4.18 inches for the top and bottom screens, respectively, a 90 percent larger screen area in total—and better battery life (up slightly from 3-5 to 3.5-6.5 hours).
It's not all good news, though, as Nintendo has reportedly confirmed that the screens' resolutions will stay the same despite being larger.
And, even more bafflingly, Nintendo is not taking this opportunity to add a much-needed second control pad to the 3DS XL layout. So games like Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D and Resident Evil: Revelations, which practically require a second control pad, will still necessitate that players purchase the $20 peripheral solution from Gamestop.
Which, by the way, is practically impossible to find.
The 3DS XL will be timed to release alongside New Super Mario Brothers 2 on August 19th in the US and July 28th in Europe. It will come in red, blue, and white/silver for $199.99.
Should they have added a second control pad? Let us know what you think in the comments or on Twitter.
[via Pocket Gamer]
