Incredible eye-tracking 3D and Amiibo support on the new Nintendo 3DS
There are two new additions to the Nintendo handheld console family: the new Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 3DS XL. These two consoles have had a serious makeover from their predecessors showing Nintendo is paying close attention to customer feedback. As technology improves over time, companies are able to squeeze even more power into a similar body and offer a better experience which is exactly what Nintendo did.
Some of the new improvements include:
New Controls
On the new Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 3DS XL there is an additional C Stick which offers more camera control in compatible games. The new shoulder buttons are located on the back of the console offering more game-play options with quick finger movements.
New 3D
The gripe with the previous console’s 3D function was that you needed to be directly in front of the device for the 3D effect to be effective. This became impractical when playing in a car or on a plane which resulted in the screen hurting your eyes and seeing a ghost shadowy effect and so ultimately 3D was switched off. With the new 3DS there is a system that tracks your eyes and face with the front camera and the console adjusts the 3D effect based on your position. This allows for much better 3D experience.
For the first time I really enjoy playing a 3D game. Legend of Zelda: Major’s Mask 3D is really incredible in 3D and I found myself getting lost in the game killing hours on a plane ride.
New Customisation
The new Nintendo 3DS XL is available in Metallic Black or Metallic Blue whilst new Nintendo 3DS will launch in Black or White.
The good news is that you are able to customise your console with a replaceable front and back cover plate. There are 12 designs to choose from and with two simple screws on the back and some clips on the front and you have a brand new funky looking console.
Amiibo and NFC
The new 3DS and 3DSXL have built in NFC support for Amiibo characters. These characters allow for your personal game data to be stored on the character so that when you play on a friend’s console, your items, game level, character, costumes etc. are all carried with you.
* Note: The review was done on console supplied by Nintendo