Nintendo is stopping production of one of its most popular handhelds, the 3DS XL, in Japan. It is doing this in the hopes that it will make a full shift over to their line of “New Nintendo 3DSs” which have increased power and an extra analogue nub. The new handheld launched in October in Japan and sold 230,000 units in the first two days.
What’s interesting is that it’s only the 3DS XL that is being effected. The original 3DS will not be effected, and will still continue to be sold. So if you need an extra-large 3DS you will have to go with the new model, while the original 3DS can still be a bargain alternative, along with the Nintendo 2DS which is the same hardware but no moving parts or 3D capability.
The New Nintendo 3DS XL is currently only available in Japan and Australia, and is still waiting for its premiere on our shores and in Europe. Thus, it’s unlikely that we will see a discontinuation in these territories, at least until we get the new model which is slated for a 2015 release. We will bring you more information on this manufacturing move as it becomes available.
Source: Siliconera