Nintendo 3DS Gets Supersized

Nintendo didn’t reveal much at E3 this year, but it’s going large with its next portable gaming system — literally.

Today, the company introduced the Nintendo 3DS XL, which will be available on August 19 for $199.99. The handheld gaming device features screens that are 90 percent larger than the previous 3DS, with the top display measuring 4.88 inches and the bottom screen coming in at 4.18 inches. The regular 3DS has 3.53- and 3.02-inch screens. The upper display of the XL still offers 3-D capabilities.

“With the launch of Nintendo 3DS XL on Aug. 19, consumers will be able to enjoy the great lineup of current and upcoming games on an even grander scale. Plus, Nintendo 3DS XL gives owners even more real estate on their screens to enjoy entertainment applications like Nintendo Video and Netflix,” said Reggie Fils-Aime, president and COO of Nintendo of America, in a statement.

The 3DS XL comes bundled with a 4GB SD card, so users can store other games and videos from the Nintendo eShop. Nintendo also says the 3DS XL has better battery life than the original model, though the company didn’t provide any specific numbers today.

The Nintendo 3DS XL will be available in red or blue. Also launching on August 19 is the New Super Mario Bros. 2 video game.