Nintendo are poised to release yet another member to the ever expanding DS lineup ; the Nintendo DSi XL. The general concensus has been this addition is surplus to needs, but Nintendo were fast to assure fans this device is not meant to nullify the existing DSi, merely to act as a different selection.

As the title suggests, the Nintendo DSi XL is a larger helping of the DSi. The shell has been substituted for a thick mould and the screens have been lengthened by about a full inch to 4.2 inches. These bigger screens are a great inclusion and push the Nintendo DSi XL nearer to the display dominance of the PSP. Titles look bigger and clearer than before and, slight pixelation aside, appear milesbetter for it.

Along with the screen, the Nintendo DSi XL has built upon the speakers built into the increased shell. Amongst the small grouses with the DSi is the audio was lacking in some titles, so increased speakers should sort out this problem. The Nintendo DSi XL also makes a return to swish gloss finish of the first DS.

TheNintendo DSi XL is an alternative choice for those who prefer their gaming a little bigger. Various game players requested the DSi to be made smaller, sharper and less heavy to make the portability easier. In this case, the DSi is still the smarter choice. The DSi XL is probably a wiser choice for those that use the DSi at home or when still rather than on the move.

Therefore it actually is a matter of choice. The Nintendo DSi XL provides a larger, chunkier gaming experience but reduces the ease of travel related to earlier incarnations. If this is your kind of thing, then try it out. If not – don’t panic! The present DSi will be around for a long time yet!