Nintendo's beefed-up handheld, the New 3DS XL, will be available in the United States starting on Feb. 13, the company announced Wednesday.
The New 3DS XL has been available in Japan since October. It offers several upgrades, including improved processor, more buttons and improved 3D functionality.
The New 3DS XL will come with an additional, smaller analog "nub," called the C Stick, above the face buttons on its right side. The face buttons have been colored to match the old-school SNES controller colors. There will also be two new shoulder buttons on the handheld's backside that sit next to the current L and R buttons.
The handheld will have a more powerful CPU, as well as an NFC chip compatible with the amiibo figures, which will use NFC to communicate with games such as Super Smash Bros. and the upcoming Ace Combat and Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. titles.
Microsoft has also upped its glasses-less 3D game; the New 3DS XL can also now account for head movement, giving a greater degree of viewing angle to the 3D images. This version improves the field of view to a wider angle and tracks your head.
Strangely, the New 3DS won't be bundled with a power cable. Nintendo said previous cables for the 3DS and even the older DSi will work, but it would only account for users that already own older systems.
The New 3DS XL will retail for $199. Its launch coincides with a remake of Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, which also debuts Feb. 13. Players can purchase a special edition New 3DS XL featuring the titular mask, as well as red or black options.
