Review: Nintendo DSI XL

Nintendo DSI XL. Photo / Supplied

There's absolutely no doubt that Nintendo owns the portable game space - and has done since GameBoy days.

The DSi XL is a pumped-up version of the diminutive DSi handheld - essentially the same beast, but adding much larger screens and a full-sized stylus.

This shows Nintendo taking notice of its market - where the DS is perfect for young eyes, many of the company's new recruits to portable gaming are likely lacking in 20/20 vision - I certainly am.

As titles like Brain Training, cooking software and more mature titles make their way on to the device, the market is getting older - and with 93 per cent more screen real estate, the DSi XL is a perfect fit.

From a spec standpoint, it's basically a big DSi, but comes pre-loaded with Brain Training: Arts Edition and Clubhouse Games: Express Card Classics.

Sony's struggling PSP is a technically better gadget jk19- but Nintendo can lay claim to the DS range - DS, DSlite, DSi and the new fella - being the biggest selling "gaming console".

The XL is a bit heavier than the DSi, which you do notice when playing for extended periods, although the added screen makes playing most games far more enjoyable.

Worth owning one? If there's not already a DS in your gaming arsenal - and you can't wait for the 3D version announced recently - it's well worth the $385.95 (tbc) ticket price.

Rating: 4/5

Matt Greenop