Nintendo DSi XL: Plays Both DS and DSi Games

Yes. The Nintendo DSi XL is fully backward compatible with:

• All Nintendo DS games (original DS, DS Lite library)
• All Nintendo DSi games (DSi‑exclusive cartridges, DSiWare)

What It Adds Over DSi

• Screens: 4.2" (93% larger than DSi's 3.25")
• Battery: 13–17 hrs (vs. 9–14 DSi)
• Form Factor: Rounder, heavier, better grip
• Pre‑installed: Brain Age Express, Flipnote Studio, Clock/Calendar

What It Removes

• GBA Slot: No backward compatibility with Game Boy Advance carts
• Guitar Hero: On Tour Grip Slot—Uses different accessory

DSiWare Note

DSi Shop closed 2017. DSiWare no longer purchasable. Previously bought titles redownloadable via "Settings → Data Management → DSiWare" if console not formatted.

DSi XL = best hardware for DS/DSi library. GBA games need original DS/DS Lite or GB Player on GameCube/Wii.