Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Metallic Red 3DS, Eevee 3DS XL evolving in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/metallic-red-3ds-eevee-3ds-xl-evolving-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/metallic-red-3ds-eevee-3ds-xl-evolving-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/metallic-red-3ds-eevee-3ds-xl-evolving-in-japan/#commentsMetallic Red 3DS, Eevee 3DS XL evolving in Japan In Japan-always-seems-to-have-the-coolest-3DS-skins news, the country's getting a new Metallic Red 3DS as well as - and we admit we're particularly jealous of this one - a very limited edition 3DS XL skin based on Eevee, the adorable critter from the Pokémon series.

The striped 3DS XL, which rather resembles 1960s wallpaper, was spotted by Hachima being advertized in one of Japan's official Pokémon Center stores. Like last year's Charizard 3DS XL, the ¥18,900 system ($185) is only available via reservations, which then go into a lottery to win the chance to buy the system. In other words, this is one of those times when the words 'limited edition' genuinely apply. The lottery is being held until June 3.

More freely available is the Metallic Red 3DS below, which will be released for ¥15,000 ($147) on June 13. Like the Light Blue and Gloss Pink models announced earlier this year, it includes a 4GB SD card.

Metallic Red 3DS, Eevee 3DS XL evolving in Japan

JoystiqMetallic Red 3DS, Eevee 3DS XL evolving in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlcolorseeveejapannintendopokemonWed, 15 May 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Pink 3DS XL announced for UK, coming next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/new-pink-3ds-xl-announced-for-uk-coming-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/new-pink-3ds-xl-announced-for-uk-coming-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/new-pink-3ds-xl-announced-for-uk-coming-next-month/#comments New Pink 3DS XL announced for UK, coming next monthA new, pink 3DS XL glams up the UK on May 31. As Official Nintendo Magazine reveals, it isn't the same as the pink-and-white number which recently re-toured North America.

There's no word yet on other regions. While Nintendo recently announced the Animal Crossing and Pikachu 3DS XLs for the west, for now, much like one of the Queen's hats, this particular portable is big, pink, and only in the UK.

JoystiqNew Pink 3DS XL announced for UK, coming next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlnintendopinkrelease-dateukMon, 22 Apr 2013 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS XL Circle Pad Pro ships today, Nintendo has 'no plans' for retail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-ships-today-nintendo-has-no-plans-for-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-ships-today-nintendo-has-no-plans-for-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-ships-today-nintendo-has-no-plans-for-r/#comments Starting today, Nintendo is offering the 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro through its online store. The listing suddenly appeared two days ago, so we asked Nintendo if this was a mistake. A company representative confirmed with Joystiq today that, "yes, the posting is accurate and the accessory will begin shipping from our online store today."

We also inquired about availability at retailers; the previous iteration, the Circle Pad Pro for the original 3DS, was a GameStop exclusive. "There are no plans to sell this accessory at other retail locations at this time," the Nintendo representative confirmed with Joystiq. Online is the only way to get it - for now, anyway.

The 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro add-on is priced at $20, a peripheral that adds an additional analog stick compatible with games like Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate, Resident Evil: Revelations, Metal Gear Solid 3D: Snake Eater, Kid Icarus: Uprising and more.

Joystiq3DS XL Circle Pad Pro ships today, Nintendo has 'no plans' for retail originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xl3ds-xl-circle-pad-pronintendoFri, 19 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Animal Crossing 3DS XL coming to North America and Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/animal-crossing-3ds-xl-coming-to-north-america-and-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/animal-crossing-3ds-xl-coming-to-north-america-and-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/animal-crossing-3ds-xl-coming-to-north-america-and-europe/#comments Animal Crossing New Leaf 3DS XL coming to North AmericaThe Animal Crossing: New Leaf 3DS XL will be released in Europe and North America, Nintendo revealed during separate regional Nintendo Direct presentations. The system retails for $219.99 and comes with a copy of the game pre-loaded on its 4GB SD card.

The system, which bears a tiled pattern of Tom Nook leaves, houses, and fruit, will be released alongside the game on June 9 in North America and June 14 in Europe.

JoystiqAnimal Crossing 3DS XL coming to North America and Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlanimal-crossing-3dsanimal-crossing-new-leafbundlenintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-aprilrelease-dateWed, 17 Apr 2013 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Animal Crossing: New Leaf 3DS XL bundle listed by UK retailer [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/animal-crossing-new-leaf-3ds-xl-bundle-listed-by-uk-retailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/animal-crossing-new-leaf-3ds-xl-bundle-listed-by-uk-retailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/animal-crossing-new-leaf-3ds-xl-bundle-listed-by-uk-retailer/#comments UK retailer ShopTo is listing the same Animal Crossing: New Leaf 3DS XL bundle that came to Japan when the game arrived there last year. The site's description says it includes a 4GB SD card, and prices the polka-dot bundle at £190, which is the same price the Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate and Fire Emblem: Awakening XL bundles are going for in the region.

Nintendo hasn't announced an Animal Crossing: New Leaf bundle for Europe (or North America), and ShopTo's listing has the same Japanese-emblazoned box as above, rather than a new English one. Having said that, its emergence just ahead of a Nintendo Direct broadcast is a bit suspect. Maybe we'll frond out tomorrow if the bundle is coming to town along with New Leaf in June.

Update: While it still appears in a Google search, ShopTo has since removed the listing.

JoystiqAnimal Crossing: New Leaf 3DS XL bundle listed by UK retailer [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlanimal-crossing-3dsanimal-crossing-new-leafeuropenintendoukTue, 16 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/pikachu-3ds-xl-sparks-into-north-america-on-march-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/pikachu-3ds-xl-sparks-into-north-america-on-march-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/pikachu-3ds-xl-sparks-into-north-america-on-march-24/#comments Pikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24Pika! It's been a long time coming, but the much-traveled Pikachu 3DS XL is on its way to North America, and it arrives next weekend on March 24. The yummy yellow edition comes with a 4GB SD memory card, and is priced $199.99.

Nintendo is also incentivizing a buy with one of the two 3DS games coming out on the same day, namely Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity and Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon. If you register the Pika-portable and one of those two games before April 30, you'll receive a bonus download code for one of five 3DS games.

The five games up for grabs are Super Mario 3D Land, Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, Star Fox 64 3D, Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive, and everyone's favorite college of craft, Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone!

Continue reading Pikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24

JoystiqPikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlluigis-nintendonorth-americapikachu-yellow-3ds-xlpokemon-mystery-dungeon-gates-to-infinityThu, 14 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mint white 3DS XL freshens Japan in April, Pikachu 3DS XL appears in US ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/mint-white-3ds-xl-freshens-japan-in-april-pikachu-3ds-xl-appear/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/mint-white-3ds-xl-freshens-japan-in-april-pikachu-3ds-xl-appear/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/mint-white-3ds-xl-freshens-japan-in-april-pikachu-3ds-xl-appear/#comments Mint white 3DS XL freshens Japan next monthIn more pretty-3DS-variant-not-headed-here news, Nintendo revealed a new mint and white skin for the 3DS XL in Japan, priced ¥18,900 ($197) headed for the country on April 18. The new color also gets its own spotted variant in a bundle with the 3DS sequel to the popular Mii collecting sim Tomodachi Collection, priced ¥22,800 ($237).

In pretty-3DS-variant-maybe-headed-here news, the absurdly adorable Pikachu 3DS XL could finally be coming over here after all. GoNintendo's NintenDaan spotted the yellow beauty in this very American commercial for Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity - Nintendo has yet to announce any plans to bring the Pikachu console to North America.

JoystiqMint white 3DS XL freshens Japan in April, Pikachu 3DS XL appears in US ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlcolorsjapannintendopikachu-yellow-3ds-xlTue, 12 Mar 2013 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy a 3DS XL and Luigi's Mansion or Pokemon Mystery Dungeon, get a free game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/buy-a-3ds-xl-and-luigis-mansion-or-pokemon-mystery-dungeon-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/buy-a-3ds-xl-and-luigis-mansion-or-pokemon-mystery-dungeon-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/buy-a-3ds-xl-and-luigis-mansion-or-pokemon-mystery-dungeon-get/#comments Buy a 3DS XL and Luigi's Mansion or Pokemon Mystery Dungeon, get a free gameIf you were thinking of buying a 3DS XL to play either Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon or Pokemon Mystery Dungeon, Nintendo is offering you a little extra incentive.

If you register a 3DS XL on Club Nintendo starting today, and register one of those two games, between March 21 and April 30, you'll get a free downloadable copy of Super Mario 3D Land, Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone!, Star Fox 64 3D, or Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! Your choice, so you aren't stuck with Freakyforms.

JoystiqBuy a 3DS XL and Luigi's Mansion or Pokemon Mystery Dungeon, get a free game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds-xlclub-nintendoluigis-mansion-dark-moonpokemon-mystery-dungeon-gates-to-infinityThu, 14 Feb 2013 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Get a free 3DS eShop game when you buy an XL in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/05/psa-get-a-free-3ds-eshop-game-when-you-buy-an-xl-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/05/psa-get-a-free-3ds-eshop-game-when-you-buy-an-xl-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/05/psa-get-a-free-3ds-eshop-game-when-you-buy-an-xl-in-europe/#comments If you live across the pond and have heavily considered bringing a 3DS XL into your life, you might want to do so within the next 10 days. New 3DS XL units registered with the Nintendo Network between now and Tuesday, January 15 can download any one of the following five eShop titles for free: Okay, granted, the list kind of peters out there at the end, but a free digital copy of Super Mario 3D Land or Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask is still a pretty sweet deal. Once received, download codes must be redeemed by January 31, at which point they'll magically transform into a pumpkin in your inbox.

JoystiqPSA: Get a free 3DS eShop game when you buy an XL in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3DS-XLeshopeuropenintendoprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-and-the-miracle-maskPSAsuper-mario-3d-landUKunited-kingdomSat, 05 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS XL holiday bundle includes free Mario Kart 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/3ds-xl-holiday-bundle-includes-free-mario-kart-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/3ds-xl-holiday-bundle-includes-free-mario-kart-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/3ds-xl-holiday-bundle-includes-free-mario-kart-7/#comments 3DS XL holiday bundle includes free Mario Kart 7A new 3DS XL bundle offered in North America starting December 2 will include a pre-installed copy of Mario Kart 7. The new "limited-edition bundle" contains a stock blue/black system with a free copy of last year's online-enabled kart racer loaded onto the SD card.

The set is priced at $199.99, the regular price for a 3DS XL, making the game effectively free. Also available at retail is Nintendo's Black Friday 3DS bundle, with a red (non-XL) 3DS and Super Mario 3D Land.

Continue reading 3DS XL holiday bundle includes free Mario Kart 7

Joystiq3DS XL holiday bundle includes free Mario Kart 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlbundleholiday-2012mario-kart-3dsmario-kart-7nintendoWed, 28 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pink 3DS XL debuts through Gilt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/pink-3ds-xl-debuts-through-gilt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/pink-3ds-xl-debuts-through-gilt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/pink-3ds-xl-debuts-through-gilt/#comments Gilt is a site that allows members access to special sales on clothing and other fashion items. The latest fashionable accessory available through the site: the pink and white 3DS XL. Gilt is the first retailer to offer this 3DS XL color in North America, bundling it with either Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask (which is currently sold out) or Style Savvy: Trendsetters for $219.99, $20 less than buying the system and a game separately.

Note that the bundles will arrive between November 26 and December 6, so don't buy it expecting to play Style Savvy right away; it'll show up fashionably late.

JoystiqPink 3DS XL debuts through Gilt originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlgiltnintendopinkstyle-savvy-trendsettersFri, 02 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Charizard 3DS XL lights up Japanese Pokemon Centers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/charizard-3ds-xl-lights-up-japanese-pokemon-centers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/charizard-3ds-xl-lights-up-japanese-pokemon-centers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/charizard-3ds-xl-lights-up-japanese-pokemon-centers/#comments Charizard 3DS XL in Japan, so good you have to win the chance to buy itNow that the Pikachu 3DS XL is coming to Europe, it's time for Nintendo to taunt everyone with a new unattainable Pokemon system. The Charizard 3DS XL/LL above will be released in Japan on December 15 ... only in Pokemon Center stores, and only to people who send in an order form and then win the chance to buy it.

The ¥18,900 ($237) handheld features Charizard's face and wings on the front, with a design that continues on the back of the unit, including a brightly colored flame. It looks pretty exciting, even if it'll all be upside down while you're playing.

JoystiqCharizard 3DS XL lights up Japanese Pokemon Centers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-ll3ds-xlcharizardjapannintendopokemonpokemon-centerFri, 26 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS XL Circle Pad Pro gets big in Japan Nov. 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-gets-big-in-japan-nov-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-gets-big-in-japan-nov-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-gets-big-in-japan-nov-15/#comments Japanese gamers looking to expand the experience (and form factor) of the 3DS XL will only have to wait until November 15, when the revised hardware will receive its own, extra large Circle Pad Pro add-on. The peripheral will cost ¥1,500, or about $20.

Revealed by Nintendo back in September, there are currently no plans to offer the 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro here in the US. The original 3DS received a similar - though smaller - version of the peripheral, selling it on its official store and exclusively at retail with GameStop. Our pals over at Engadget had some hands-on time with the 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro last month during TGS 2012, so feel free to check out their hands-on video. Or not. We're not the boss of you.

Joystiq3DS XL Circle Pad Pro gets big in Japan Nov. 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xl3ds-xl-circle-pad-procircle-pad-projapannintendoperipheralThu, 04 Oct 2012 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikachu 3DS XL coming to Europe this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/pikachu-3ds-xl-coming-to-europe-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/pikachu-3ds-xl-coming-to-europe-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/pikachu-3ds-xl-coming-to-europe-this-year/#comments Europe is joining Japan in the "cool yellow Pikachu 3DS XL" club, leaving us Americans crying bitter tears on our boring red and blue systems. No date was announced during today's Nintendo Direct presentation, aside from "later this year." It's also not known whether it will be limited to certain retailers as it is in Japan.

Man, look at that adorable thing.

JoystiqPikachu 3DS XL coming to Europe this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xleuropenintendopikachupokemonThu, 04 Oct 2012 14:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget tries out the 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/engadget-tries-out-the-3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/engadget-tries-out-the-3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/engadget-tries-out-the-3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro/#comments
Nintendo released the first official image of the 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro only yesterday, and now we've seen it in person on the show floor at the Tokyo Game Show. In the grand Circle Pad Pro tradition, Capcom is showing off the peripheral with the latest in the Monster Hunter series, Monster Hunter 4.

Our co-buddies at Engadget got some hands on time with device, noting that it does make the system bulkier, but it's less of a concern this time around, as the 3DS XL is already pretty large to begin with (what with the XL and all). The unit is also very comfortable, though it suffers from one flaw seen in the 3DS model: it blocks the cartridge slot. Head over to Engadget for some fresh images.

JoystiqEngadget tries out the 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlnintendotgs-2012Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First image of 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro appears, makes 3DS XXL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/first-image-of-3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-appears-makes-3ds-xxl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/first-image-of-3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-appears-makes-3ds-xxl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/first-image-of-3ds-xl-circle-pad-pro-appears-makes-3ds-xxl/#comments First image of 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro appears, makes 3DS XXLYup, that's pretty chunky. After being outed earlier this year, the 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro now has its first image on the Nintendo Japan website. With its latest attachment, the console has somehow become even bigger. We can only hope Nintendo goes down the Genesis route and tries to create as many unwieldy attachments as possible. Maybe the next 3DS XL attachment can come with dumbbells.

Aw, we're only teasing. While its North American release remains uncomfirmed, the 3DS XL's newest attachment is likely to arrive on Western shores. As for when and how much, there isn't even word on either its release date or price in Japan yet - so don't make a big deal about it.

JoystiqFirst image of 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro appears, makes 3DS XXL originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlcircle-pad-projapannintendoThu, 20 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pink 3DS XL coming to Japan on September 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/pink-3ds-xl-coming-to-japan-on-september-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/pink-3ds-xl-coming-to-japan-on-september-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/pink-3ds-xl-coming-to-japan-on-september-27/#comments Pink 3DS XL coming to Japan on September 27Japan news now, as Nintendo has announced an exclusive 3DS XL for the region. The pink and white beaut' above is releasing in Japan on September 27 in celebration of Style Savvy: Girls Mode. Get it?

The pink 3DS XL was revealed during this morning's Nintendo Direct presentation. No word on whether this model will be made available outside of Japan, but considering we got the pink version of the original 3DS here in the States, we expect it'll arrive eventually.

JoystiqPink 3DS XL coming to Japan on September 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xljapannintendostyle-savvystyle-savvy-girls-modeThu, 30 Aug 2012 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS XL collides with concrete, lives to tell the tale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/3ds-xl-collides-with-concrete-lives-to-tell-the-tale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/3ds-xl-collides-with-concrete-lives-to-tell-the-tale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/3ds-xl-collides-with-concrete-lives-to-tell-the-tale/#comments 3DS XL collides with concrete, lives to tell the tale
You can probably relax with that elaborate metal chain setup you use to tether your new 3DS XL to your body. Dropping a 3DS XL apparently isn't the huge disaster it is in your mind's eye, evidenced in this video from GizmoSlip.

Joystiq3DS XL collides with concrete, lives to tell the tale originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xldurabilitygizmoslipnintendoTue, 28 Aug 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Penélope Cruz stars as Mario in Nintendo commercial]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/penelope-cruz-stars-as-mario-in-nintendo-commercial/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/penelope-cruz-stars-as-mario-in-nintendo-commercial/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/penelope-cruz-stars-as-mario-in-nintendo-commercial/#comments Penlope Cruz stars in Nintendo commercial
Esteemed actress Penélope Cruz appeared in a recent commercial promoting the launch of Nintendo's 3DS XL and New Super Mario Bros. 2 in Europe.

With a rather convincing performance as herself, Cruz giggled her way through stages of the latest Mario game while cradling the 3DS XL in her dainty palms. After dueling with her sister in the game, Cruz lost a bet and then blessed a supermarket with her portrayal of the famous mustached plumber.

JoystiqPenélope Cruz stars as Mario in Nintendo commercial originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds-xladcelebritycommercialmarionew-super-mario-bros-2nintendopenelope-cruzSun, 19 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: 3DS XL now printing novelty checks in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/psa-3ds-xl-now-printing-novelty-checks-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/psa-3ds-xl-now-printing-novelty-checks-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/psa-3ds-xl-now-printing-novelty-checks-in-north-america/#comments Nintendo's latest handheld system, the 3DS XL, released in North America today for $199.99. While western buyers can't get a special Pikachu version, Engadget's review indicates that the system is a pretty big improvement on the original 3DS regardless of its color scheme.

New Super Mario Bros. 2 also launched with the handheld console today. Giving our review of the game an extra glance should help you decide if it's the first game you'll be playing on your new 3DS XL. If those extra Club Nintendo coins sound too good to pass up, New Super Mario Bros. 2 also be downloaded from the eShop today.

Gallery: 3DS XL vs. 3DS

Gallery: 3DS XL up close

JoystiqPSA: 3DS XL now printing novelty checks in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds-xlmarionew-super-mario-bros-2nintendopsarelease-dateSun, 19 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a peek at the Japan-only Pokemon Center 3DS XL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/take-a-peek-at-the-japan-only-pokemon-center-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/take-a-peek-at-the-japan-only-pokemon-center-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/take-a-peek-at-the-japan-only-pokemon-center-3ds-xl/#comments Take a peek at the Japanonly Pokemon Center 3DS XLIt was going to happen sooner or later, but we didn't expect it to be so soon. Two days before the US launch of the 3DS XL, there's already an unattainable Japanese special edition with an exclusive color scheme.

The Pikachu Yellow 3DS LL will be sold only at Pokemon Center stores in Japan, and only through pre-orders, starting August 25. It's yellow on the outside, with a brightly smiling Pikachu design, and white on the inside. Sorry to bum you out about the normal 3DS XL you were about to buy!

JoystiqTake a peek at the Japan-only Pokemon Center 3DS XL originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlcuuuuuuuuuutejapannintendopokemon-centerFri, 17 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS XL sells 193K units at Japanese launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/3ds-xl-sells-193k-units-at-japanese-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/3ds-xl-sells-193k-units-at-japanese-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/3ds-xl-sells-193k-units-at-japanese-launch/#comments The 3DS XL has sold an estimated 193,441 units in its two days on the Japanese market, according to an Enterbrain report published by Famitsu. New Super Mario Bros. 2, which was released concurrently, sold an estimated 430,185 copies. It's unlikely that number includes sales of the download version, which was launched at the same time. There must have been at least some eShop copies sold.

The original 3DS reportedly burned through its full initial Japanese shipment of 400,000 units in 24 hours, making the upsized unit's launch softer in comparison. The PlayStation Vita, the 3DS's most direct competition, sold 321,407 units in its December 2011 launch in Japan, though sales have slowed quite a bit since.

Joystiq3DS XL sells 193K units at Japanese launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Jul 2012 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlenterbrainjapannintendoTue, 31 Jul 2012 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[An extra large look at the 3DS XL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/an-extra-large-look-at-the-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/an-extra-large-look-at-the-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/an-extra-large-look-at-the-3ds-xl/#comments An extra large look at the 3DS XLThe 3DS XL is big.

... Okay, maybe it isn't as big as our novelty Fire Emblem eraser makes it seem, but as a system whose main selling point is its bigness relative to the previous Nintendo 3DS, it succeeds handily.

In addition to plenty of close-up pictures of our review unit, we also made sure to take plenty of comparison pictures, to help you comprehend its enormity in context. What does that giant screen look like compared to the Vita's huge screen? How big is a 3DS XL compared to a Game Gear? Find out in our gallery.

And after the break, see the 3DS XL's vast screens compared to the now-petite screens on the original 3DS. We ran 3DS games, videos, and even a DS game (Game Center CX 2, the only DS game we had two copies of) simultaneously. We also compared both DS display modes - stretched and native - on both devices. A DS game running in native resolution on the 3DS XL displays in roughly the same size as a stretched DS game on a 3DS!

Gallery: 3DS XL up close

Continue reading An extra large look at the 3DS XL

JoystiqAn extra large look at the 3DS XL originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-ll3ds-xlnintendoMon, 30 Jul 2012 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS XL's screen reduces glare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/22/3ds-xls-screen-reduces-glare/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/22/3ds-xls-screen-reduces-glare/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/22/3ds-xls-screen-reduces-glare/#comments 3DS XL's screen also reduces glare in addition to being ginormousNintendo's 3DS XL system may have a size advantage over the original 3DS console, but it will also feature a new LCD screen that is less reflective, according to a recent Iwata Asks interview. Takashi Murakami, who works in the mechanical design group for the console, said the reflectivity of the new LCD screen will be 3%, down from 12% on the 3DS.

"On a LCD screen there are basically three reflective layers, which all of them reflects and cause glare. So this time, we specially treated all the layers," Murakami said. Cutting down on glare for handheld systems has been a goal since the Game Boy Advance, which Nintendo President Satoru Iwata said had been abandoned most of the time due to cost.

It especially seems to be in Nintendo's interests to reduce the glare on a stereoscopic 3D system like the 3DS XL though, which was also said to offer a broader depth of 3D than its predecessor, as the system includes a larger depth slider.

Joystiq3DS XL's screen reduces glare originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlglareiwata-asksnintendoSatoru-IwataSun, 22 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata: 3DS XL to be sold at a profit, 3D likely a 'minor element' in future Nintendo devices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/iwata-3ds-xl-to-be-sold-at-a-profit-3d-likely-a-minor-element/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/iwata-3ds-xl-to-be-sold-at-a-profit-3d-likely-a-minor-element/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/iwata-3ds-xl-to-be-sold-at-a-profit-3d-likely-a-minor-element/#comments Nintendo CEO Satoru Iwata revealed one way Nintendo is working to stop selling the 3DS at a loss, which it has since last year's price drop. "First of all to the 3DS XL, we will not be selling this at a loss," Iwata told the Independent. "We don't have a huge profit margin on it, we intend to sell it at a profit." He wasn't as forthcoming about the Wii U's pricing, of course. "As for Wii U we haven't even announced price so it's too early to comment."

He also had some thoughts on the future prospects of 3D. Though "3D is the normal state for human beings, it's how we see our environment," Iwata doesn't believe 3D television will really take off until it can work glasses-free. The 3DS was able to include 3D, he said, "because there are various circumstances on a handheld machine which make it possible. You have the screen and the console being one, normally you have almost constant distance between [the user] and the screen, so with the currently available technology it is possible to provide a high quality 3D experience without glasses. "

That said, 3D in video games had a "surprise effect" that Iwata admits is wearing off. "But I think it's an important element, it makes graphics more impactful, it proves a sense of immersion that 2D doesn't have, so I would say generally that 3D is better than 2D." Iwata added, "It's nice to have good graphics but not necessarily on their own, so I don't think we'll present [3D graphics] as one of the key features of our consoles but will probably stick with 3D as one of the minor elements of our consoles in the future. "

JoystiqIwata: 3DS XL to be sold at a profit, 3D likely a 'minor element' in future Nintendo devices originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3ds3ds-xlnintendopricesatoru-iwatawii-uThu, 12 Jul 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Read Engadget's super-sized review of the 3DS XL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/read-engadgets-super-sized-review-of-the-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/read-engadgets-super-sized-review-of-the-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/read-engadgets-super-sized-review-of-the-3ds-xl/#comments If you're contemplating picking up a big ol' 3DS XL, then you're going to need one big ol' review. As it so happens, Engadget has just served up one heaping helping of 3DS XL review, packed with pictures, video and all the text you can read. The verdict: The 3DS XL is more comfortable, the battery lasts longer and, overall, it's a better machine than its baby brother.

Head over to Engadget for the whole review. Try not to read it all at once - you wouldn't want your brain to get fat.

JoystiqRead Engadget's super-sized review of the 3DS XL originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlnintendoTue, 10 Jul 2012 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Get an extra large hands-on with the 3DS XL at San Diego Comic-Con 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/get-an-extra-large-hands-on-with-the-3ds-xl-at-san-diego-comic-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/get-an-extra-large-hands-on-with-the-3ds-xl-at-san-diego-comic-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/get-an-extra-large-hands-on-with-the-3ds-xl-at-san-diego-comic-c/#comments You and your buddy Peter always go to San Diego Comic Con, sure, but do you always get a chance to be the first people in North America to touch Nintendo's next handheld? The answer is no, because you don't. But this year, you totally will, as Nintendo's bringing the 3DS XL.

The Japanese game publisher's also bringing a variety of games for you to play, including New Super Mario Bros. 2, Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate, and ... uh, Kid Icarus. Okay, okay - outside of those three and a couple others, the rest of the games are kinda not so new. But hey, Just Dance 4 on Wii will also be there! Yeah!

Head past the break for the full list.

Continue reading Get an extra large hands-on with the 3DS XL at San Diego Comic-Con 2012

JoystiqGet an extra large hands-on with the 3DS XL at San Diego Comic-Con 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlcastlevania-lords-of-shadow-mirror-of-fatedsjust-dance-4luigis-mansion-dark-moonnew-super-mario-bros-2nintendosan-diego-comic-con-2012sdcc-2012wiiMon, 09 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS XL getting supersized with Circle Pad Pro extension]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/nintendo-3ds-xl-getting-supersized-with-circle-pad-pro-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/nintendo-3ds-xl-getting-supersized-with-circle-pad-pro-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/nintendo-3ds-xl-getting-supersized-with-circle-pad-pro-extension/#comments Sure, Nintendo could've made the 3DS XL even larger by attaching a second analog stick to it, but what fun would that be? Instead, Nintendo's launching an evolved Circle Pad Pro attachment for the larger 3DS "some time this year," according to Famitsu (via Andriasang).

The attachment was outed in the latest issue of the Japanese game mag, though it sadly lacked images (perhaps they were too large for a standard magazine?). Nintendo hasn't confirmed the attachment for North American retail just yet, but it's a safe bet it'll arrive here as well.

And yes - stop worrying - the 3DS stand from Kid Icarus is said to still work with this new, supersized attachment. Whew.

JoystiqNintendo 3DS XL getting supersized with Circle Pad Pro extension originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlattachmentcircle-pad-profamitsujapannintendoperipheralThu, 28 Jun 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS XL comes to Europe on July 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/3ds-xl-comes-to-europe-july-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/3ds-xl-comes-to-europe-july-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/3ds-xl-comes-to-europe-july-28/#comments 3DS XL comes to Europe July 28There was a Nintendo Direct video for Europe as well, which revealed local plans for the new 3DS XL. The hardware will be released there July 28, in red, blue, and silver color variants. Like in all other regions, the 3DS XL will come packed with a 4GB memory card. And, as in Japan, the system will ship without an AC adapter, for real. "Even with the addition of the bigger screen, Nintendo's aim was to still make the system available at a reasonable purchase price," Nintendo UK said. "Because of this, and because so many fans already own a previous handheld, an AC adapter will not be included."

Also out in Europe on July 28 is a new Art Academy for 3DS called, well, New Art Academy. In addition, an expanded version of the eShop game Freakyforms will be released as a retail game, called Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! Speaking of eShop games, there's a sale on some popular downloads, with more next week.

Joystiq3DS XL comes to Europe on July 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xleuropefreakyforms-deluxefreakyforms-your-creations-alivenew-art-academynintendoFri, 22 Jun 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet the 3DS XL in our hardware gallery]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/meet-the-3ds-xl-in-our-hardware-gallery/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/meet-the-3ds-xl-in-our-hardware-gallery/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/meet-the-3ds-xl-in-our-hardware-gallery/#comments 3DS XL galleryLike it was for everyone else, it was pretty late at night for Nintendo when the news of the 3DS XL came out. And as a result, we all waited until morning for a gallery of official hardware photos not snapped from a video stream.

Get a better look at the 3DS XL in its official North American launch colors in our gallery below. Look at those home, select, and start buttons! They're actual buttons instead of whatever you call the mushy things under the 3DS screen.

The 3DS XL launches August 19, for $199.99.

Gallery: Nintendo 3DS XL

JoystiqMeet the 3DS XL in our hardware gallery originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlnintendoFri, 22 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New 3DS coming to US August 19 for $199.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/new-3ds-coming-to-us-august-19-for-199-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/new-3ds-coming-to-us-august-19-for-199-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/new-3ds-coming-to-us-august-19-for-199-99/#comments New 3DS coming to US August 19 for $19999The newly announced "3DS LL" will be released in North America on August 19 as the "Nintendo 3DS XL." It'll cost $199.99 and come in either red or blue, with a 4GB SD card. The release date is concurrent with New Super Mario Bros. 2.

The 3DS XL has a 4.88 inch upper screen, for a 90 percent larger viewing area than the 3.5-inch top screen of the current 3DS model. The bottom screen is also larger, at 4.18 inches.

The Japanese and European versions will ship without AC adapters as a money-saving measure (really!), as they are compatible with existing 3DS and DSi XL power adapters. It is currently unannounced whether the North American version will include a power cord, though we can't believe that's a question now.

Gallery: 3DS Hardware Update US Version (6/21/2012)

JoystiqNew 3DS coming to US August 19 for $199.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-ll3ds-xlnintendonintendo-directq3-2012release-dateFri, 22 Jun 2012 00:07:00 EST