Never Underestimate the New 3DS

I’ve heard a lot of people question whether they should ever upgrade to the New 3DS or the New 3DS XL. The short answer in my opinion, is yes. Although only a few titles are currently taking advantage of the faster and more powerful processor, there is one extra feature on these new devices that makes playing certain games much more enjoyable.

The “little nub” as it has been described by some is more better defined as a somewhat stationary C-Stick, which you will remember from the GameCube days. In most titles that are out that utilize this feature – The Legends of Zelda: Majoras Mask, Xenoblade Chronicles, and now Hyrule Warriors Legends – using this nub allows you to swing the camera back and forth, and all around. It was great to use in Majoras Mask and Xenoblade, but I’ve never been a bigger fan than when I used it in Hyrule Warriors Legends.

With how the game is set up, it’s not easy to maneuver Link – or any of the heroes for that matter – around the field of battle while trying to remain locked on to a main target. Generally, each ‘battle’ within the larger war (level) has one baddie you want to pay particular attention to. Sure, you can target that individual but you will quickly get spun around, especially if that enemy has the ability to teleport, like when fighting a Large Poe or Skull Kid.

The ability to quickly touch the nub and swing your character around is outstanding, and perhaps is one of the must underused, and undermentioned, bonuses of having the New 3DS XL. Since my New 3DS XL was in for repairs when our review copy of Hyrule Warriors Legends arrived, I had to play it on a regular 3DS. Was it fun? Absolutely, but I can say with confidence that I had a much more enjoyable time when I popped the cartridge into my New 3DS XL last night. It is a vastly superior system to play it on.

So, should you get a New 3DS XL just for this? Probably not, but if you have an interest in Majoras Mask and Xenoblade Chronicle – which requires the New 3DS XL to play! – then now is a great time to pick up one of the New 3DS models.