Nintendo 3DS XL Gold/Black - Limited Edition Bundle with The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

I got a DS Lite yeeeeaaars ago, and loved it. But I have since grown more fond of traditional gaming consoles where I can connect them to my 55" LED HDTV. Being a pretty big Zelda fan, I finally decided to try out the newest line in the DS family where it came with the free Zelda game and awesome Triforce-themed shell.First of all, it's beautiful. I love how even the bottom of the DS has a glossy black Triforce design to mirror the gold one on the top. The paint seems very high quality and can withstand a lot more wear and tear without leaving visible scratches compared to most consumer electronics. I only wish the Zelda game included was the actual game cartridge instead of the download code (I will always prefer a hard copy of something where ownership rights are vastly better, but another topic for another day).I love the 3D effect, and use it more often than not, but I also like that they give you control over it so you can turn it down or off when necessary. You have to be looking directly at the screen from a perfect centered angle to get the 3D effect, so sometimes when you're playing somewhere that you don't have as much mobility or a good lighting environment (like outside in direct sunlight), games are better enjoyed with 3D off. Whenever possible though, I have it turned on max because it really is cool and adds to the immersion.Before buying it, I've played around with 3DS demo units in stores briefly, but never knew about cool features like StreetPass and SpotPass. Now, after having bought one, StreetPass is by far my favorite feature. It allows you to connect with other nearby 3DS consoles, and depending on the game, will reward you or present new challenges depending on your StreetPass activity. The included StreetPass Mii Plaza game is quite addictive once you get started. I have purchased a few games solely based on their integrated StreetPass integration because it is just that fun.I still prefer watching things on a huge screen in 1080p, but they pack a lot of fun into this small thing. The only real negatives I have for it are the low resolution (after being used to even my 5" phone screen being 1080p, the lower 3DS resolution is quite noticeable), and I wish the battery life was a little better. But I'm never too far from somewhere I can charge, so not a big deal.I am also completely sold on the XL version being a must. It doesn't even seem that big to me, honestly. So after becoming accustomed to the XL, I can't even imagine using the non-XL units with about 40% less screen area. Definitely get the XL. And definitely don't get the 2DS! No 3D, smaller screens, no flip screen (for better portability and screen protection), and it just plain looks ugly. The 3DS XL is the most fun gadget I've bought in a long time. I even was able to get my wife to enjoy it enough to get her one as well (the Disney-themed Mickey ears version). It's a lot of fun closing out the day with some Download Play-compatible (wireless multi-console multiplayer using only one cartridge) games like Mario Kart, Mario Party, and Star Fox. Super easy 5 stars here.

This review may be a bit biased, because I was pretty sure I was going to love this before I got it. I did a bit of research on the 3DS (versus the 2DS) and decided that the 3D feature was worth it for me, even if I didn't use it frequently. I also got drawn into the special edition look, and the fact that the Zelda game came packaged with it.I can definintely say that it met my expectations. I love this thing. I play it far more often than a 30 year old woman probably should.The limited edition color and badging is lovely; the gold is slightly shiny, with the triforce subtly showing as more matte areas (but still definitely visible). The gold isn't gaudy at all. I was a bit concerned when I had read that the gold coloring is a paint or enamel and doesn't go all the way through, but even if that is true it hasn't flaked, chipped or come off at all. I take it nearly everywhere(the StreetPass and Mii feature is a bit addictive) and it hasn't shown any sign of wear. (Of course the carrying case helps).Battery life is pretty good, even with the 3D on. I didn't find the 3D bothered my eyes as long as I looked at it straight on, but if I'm tired I can't look at the 3D for too long.As far as the unit itself, I have no complaints (and I'm fussy). The 3D effect is very neat, and you can scale down how strong the effect is and turn it off if it bothers you. Battery life is good, and both screens (Speaking for the XL version) are well light and display graphics beautifully. The DS XL comes with several programs and features that are a lot of fun, especially the StreetPass oriented Miiverse. You could easily play for weeks without ever actually buying a game (if you use the Streetpass).If you know you want the 3DS and are deciding between this and a regular version, I would say it's going to depend on what's important to you. This version is more expensive, but it does include the Zelda game, which is worth at least $40. (Something to note is that the Zelda game comes as a download, and does not include a physical game cartridge. Some consider this a pro, others a con. I personally prefer having the game downloaded directly on, as I don't need to worry about swapping cartridges if I want to play, and I don't have any personal need to keep the cartridge. If the game gets deleted, as long as you have the code that comes with the unit, you should be able to redownload the game).The special gold and black coloring is very pretty, but also subdued. It doesn't scream "Zelda", which again may be good or bad depending on your preference. If you have a love for limited edition items, the Zelda franchise, and like the gold/black scheme, I'd say go for this special edition.If you're kind of lukewarm on the Zelda franchise, it may not be worth the extra $.

Not as advertised, came with none of the accessories and can't read SD cards, no game, and damaged. Could not imagine a worse product at the price.

This 3DS XL is awesome. Sadly I missed out on ever getting a DSi XL. I only had the DS lite and by the time I was finally considering upgrading, the 3DS was right around the corner to being released back in 2011, so I never got one. That being said, I'd just like to point out that I also have the original 3DS. I didn't want to end up missing out on the XL this time around though, so I finally gave in and got it. I just couldn't pass up this limited edition bundle. The main thing I wanted to point out in this review is the size difference. Until I got this in the mail today, took it out and held it up to my own 3DS, I never realized how much bigger it is. The gold matte finish and the free digital download of A Link Between worlds is a plus. I definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking to get their first 3DS or already has the original 3DS like me.Also, I'd recommend getting this from Amazon versus anywhere else if you're a prime member. Most people selling it on Amazon atm are selling it in the $235-240 price range. However in other stores like Walmart, best buy, etc., the asking price is $219. The thing is that when you factor in tax and shipping, it comes out to basically around the same price that's being offered here on Amazon. Assuming you're a prime member, if you choose prime 2-day shipping, shipping is free, and as long as you buy it from a 3rd party (who is fulfilled by Amazon), you shouldn't be charged tax (I wasn't). So yea, take advantage of your prime membership and just buy it here if you have Amazon prime.Can't wait to re-play my games again on this bigger screen.