PCMag editors select and review products independently. If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing.

SNES-Themed 3DS XL Heads to the US

The themed 3DS XL was originally thought to be an exclusive to Europe, but it looks as though Nintendo changes its mind.

 & Matthew Humphries Former Senior Editor

Our team tests, rates, and reviews more than 1,500 products each year to help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.

Our Expert
LOOK INSIDE PC LABS HOW WE TEST
65 EXPERTS
43 YEARS
41,500+ REVIEWS

Nintendo is trying incredibly hard to make sure you have at least one Nintendo-branded piece of hardware under the Christmas tree this year. Not content with offering the Switch, the SNES Classic, and the 2DS XL, the Japanese company decided to bring a SNES-themed 3DS XL to the US as well this year.

News of the New Nintendo 3DS XL Super NES Edition came via Twitter account @Wario64:

As the tweet suggests, not only will this be a New 3DS XL with classic Super Nintendo styling, Nintendo also decided to include a free copy of Super Mario Kart. In total, the package will cost $199.99 and looks to be exclusive to Amazon when it launches on November 27.

Depending on your recent history of owning Nintendo handhelds, $199.99 may not be the end of your spending. That's because the New 3DS XL does not ship with a charger in the box. The official charger costs $22, but you can pick up a third-party charger for as little as $5. Just be aware that whoever you buy this 3DS XL for may need one.

On the question of whether the 3DS is still a good buy, I have to answer that with a resounding yes! There is such a rich selection of games available for the handheld that you're bound to find something to enjoy. The bigger issue for Nintendo is selling this $200 3DS XL when the 2DS XL only costs $150. Is the SNES styling and 3D output enough to make you spend the extra $50?

About Our Expert

Matthew Humphries

Matthew Humphries

Former Senior Editor

My Experience

I started working at PCMag in November 2016, covering all areas of technology and video game news. Before that I spent nearly 15 years working at Geek.com as a writer and editor. I also spent the first six years after leaving university as a professional game designer working with Disney, Games Workshop, 20th Century Fox, and Vivendi.

I hold two degrees: a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and a Master's degree in Games Development. My first book, Make Your Own Pixel Art, is available from all good book shops.

My Areas of Expertise

  • PC components and system building
  • Raspberry Pi
  • Software development
  • Storage technology
  • Video games and gaming hardware

Read full bio