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Nintendo 3DS XL Age: Release Dates & Lifespan

The Nintendo 3DS XL (LL in Japan) launched:

  • Japan: July 28, 2012
  • Europe: July 28, 2012
  • North America: August 19, 2012
  • Australia: August 23, 2012

As of 2024, the 3DS XL has been around for ~12 years.

Hardware Revisions & Timeline

ModelLaunchKey Changes
3DS XL (Original)201290% larger screens vs 3DS, 4GB SD, matte finish, better battery
New 3DS XL2014 (JP), 2015 (West)C-stick, ZL/ZR, NFC (amiibo), faster CPU, face-tracking 3D, microSD, colored buttons (JP/EU)
New 2DS XL2017Clamshell, no 3D, same CPU as New 3DS, lighter, cheaper

Discontinuation

  • Production Ended: September 2020 (all 3DS family).
  • eShop Closed: March 27, 2023.
  • Online Services (except Pokémon Bank): Ended April 8, 2024.

Collector Notes

  • Launch Colors: Red, Blue, Silver (JP); Red, Blue (NA/EU).
  • Limited Editions: Pikachu, Xerneas/Yveltal, Zelda (Majora's Mask, A Link Between Worlds), Monster Hunter 4, Animal Crossing, Super Mario, Galaxy, Persona Q, Fire Emblem Fates, Dragon Quest, Smash Bros. – many command $300–$800+ sealed.
  • IPS Screens: Random lottery. Top/bottom IPS = better viewing angles. Check via "3DS Identify" homebrew.
Nintendo DS
Nintendo DS

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