Nintendo are positioned to release a fresh addition to the ever growing DS brood ; the Nintendo DSi XL. The general concensus has been this release is surplus to requirements, but Nintendo were fast to reassure gamers this device is not designed to replace the current DSi, simply to serve as a different choice.

As the name suggests, the Nintendo DSi XL is a larger version of the DSi. The frame has been swapped for a thick mould and the displays have been increased by almost a full inch to 4.2 inches. These larger displays are a great inclusion and bring the Nintendo DSi XL closer to the screen dominance of the PSP. Titles look larger and clearer than before and, slight pixelation aside, look milesbetter in this case.

Togetherwith the screen, the Nintendo DSi XL has increased the speakers packed into the increased frame. Amongst the minor complaints with the DSi is the sound was lacking in some titles, so new speakers should sort out this problem. The Nintendo DSi XL also makes a return to swish gloss design of the original.

TheNintendo DSi XL is an alternative choice for those who like their videogaming a bit larger. Many game players requested the DSi to be made smaller, sharper and less heavy to make the portability easier. On this note, the DSi is still the smarter option. The DSi XL is probably asmarter option for those that play the DSi indoors or when still rather than on the move.

Therefore it actually is a matter of choice. The Nintendo DSi XL provides a bigger, chunkier videogaming experience but reduces the simplicity of travel related to earlier models. If this sounds like your sort of thing, then give it a go. If not - don’t fear! The existing DSi will be here for a long time yet!