“It’s not the size that matters; it’s how you use it!”

Somehow I don’t think Nintendo has ever heard that expression because they will soon be releasing the Nintendo 3DS XL as a means to salvage their failing 3DS portable system.

A little over a year ago, Nintendo released a brand new portable system to capitalize on the current 3D craze. What made this system so great? It was portable, 3D, and it didn’t require those annoying glasses. It seemed promising, and when it was released in March 2011 in North America, it cost a hefty $250. That’s the same price the revolutionary Nintendo Wii cost when it was launched in 2006.

By July (only a few months later), sales had been so poor, that the $250 price tag dropped to $170. That decision is pretty sad considering the Wii took years to drop in price, and even then it wasn’t an $80 drop.

Well Nintendo panicked, I’m sure, and got to work right away on the successor to the 3DS: The 3DS XL.

Is this really the answer? Why were people not buying the 3DS? Because it was TOO portable? I’m not following the logic here. When it comes to portability, everything is always more valuable when it’s slimmer, lighter, and ultimately… more portable.

When I shop for a cell phone, I want something I can keep in my pocket comfortably, but not something so tiny that I can’t see the screen. And cell phone gaming is a major reason why systems like the 3DS and PS P/Vita are struggling. People love to have games in their pocket without having to carry around some huge device (even if that means sacrificing tactile buttons). But Nintendo decided that the way to fix their cute little 3DS was to make it HUGE.

Remember back in the 90′s when the Game Boy Pocket came out? It was a huge deal because it could actually fit in your pocket now, and people LOVE that. But Nintendo didn’t stop there. They soon came out with the Game Boy Micro! This thing was TINY!

Was this one a little too small? Definitely, but at least they understood how important portability was. What happened?

I’m curious to see what people think of this new giant when it comes out. I’m always rooting for Nintendo, but I just don’t know who’s making the decisions around there lately.

Are you planning on purchasing a 3DS XL? Feel free to comment below.