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Arguably the most useful change to the New Nintendo 3DS XL is the new analog stick, or nub. Rather than a smaller replica of the left hand nub, it's a tight, unmoving rubber protrusion just above the X button.
While its inclusion is an advantage, it really ought to have been included in the original 3DS models, so its appearance here feels like a much needed fix rather than a fancy new feature.
Even then, it's not particularly user-friendly. Those with big thumbs will find themselves grazing the top half of the unit with the tip of their finger, while the nub's general lack of give can prove uncomfortable.
By contrast, the two new bumper buttons, previously exclusive to the CirclePad Pro peripheral, are comfortably situated on the inside of the standard bumper buttons.
Meanwhile, the faster CPU is currently lacking software that can demonstrate any noticeable benefits: the New 3DS XL is backwards compatible of course, but at the time of publishing there is no software exclusive to it, compounding the general feeling that the product as a whole is a bit unnecessary at this point in the 3DS's life cycle.
New Pokemon games, in addition to the forthcoming Xenoblade Chronicles, will work exclusively with the new 3DS and 3DS XL, but they won't arrive until 2015.
As for the 3D itself, well, it is noticeably more… three-dimensional than its predecessors, which is fantastic if you actually use it.
In 2014, 3D is no longer the drawcard it was back in 2011, but there's little doubting Nintendo has improved the feature. It's no longer as nauseating with extended play, and Super Smash Bros. looks especially radiant.
But Nintendo has a habit of not including at least one standard feature in its products (see previously: second circle pad) and the New 3DS XL is no exception: it doesn't come with a charger.
While those upgrading from previous models can use their existing charger, parents buying their children a New 3DS XL this christmas should be made aware of this omission lest Christmas goes sour by 10am.
Storage wise, the device comes with 1GB internal flash storage but also accepts MicroSD cards. While the upgrade is to be expected, it does mean you won't be able to use your standard SD cards from previous 3DS models.
The New Nintendo 3DS XL (2014) also supports NFC compatibility with the company's new Amiibo figurines, though we have so far been unable to test these. The console itself can be personalised with snap on covers, if making things look prettier is your thing.
