There’s one huge name in gaming about to hit the scene, and we’re all getting pumped. Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS is on its way, and we’ve already settled on our favorite teams and stages. But what about the hardware you’re going to play it on? In fact, what about your current 3DS XL? As it turns out, there are quite a few special editions of Nintendo’s most popular handheld, many of which sport character designs, limited coloring, or patterns with our favorite characters. There are far too many to compile in one list, but here are nine of the coolest special editions out there. You should be able to find at least one of them in time to pick up the game (and some opponents).
Also See: Super Smash Bros. 3DS Review
As a side note, all of these models are currently available in North America or are available for import. While there’s a special 3DS XL coming out for the promotion of Super Smash Bros., it has yet to be released.
You can see the full list in the gallery below.
9 Awesome Special Edition 3DS XLs
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Animal Crossing
This fun and whimsical Animal Crossing-themed 3DS is colorful and adorned with an all-over pattern including leaves, fruits, and other recognizable icons from the popular sim that everyone enjoys. It does include a preinstalled version of Animal Crossing: New Leaf, and the white background juxtaposed with the fun rainbow imagery on the system make it a fun handheld to carry, whether you’re into flashy designs or something more understated.
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Mario & Luigi
This silver 3DS XL featured a gold outline of everyone’s favorite Italian plumbers doing what they do best -- jumping. It comes pre-installed with the role-playing title, and is, like the Yoshi’s New Island 3DS, a North American exclusive. It’s still quite easy to find in most retail stores, and while its design is rather simple, it’s elegant and understated, perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to call attention to their handheld.
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Monster Hunter 4
This adorable system is a Japanese exclusive that released in Japan last year to celebrate the release of Monster Hunter 4, with adorable kitty faces adorning its lid. It might not be what you’d expect when it comes to the Monster Hunter series, but it’s an interesting find on its own. Of course, you’ll have to import it, but it’s an absolutely gorgeous choice if you’re looking for something uniquely Japanese.
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Pikachu
Perhaps one of the toughest systems to get on this list currently, this vivid yellow Pikachu edition 3DS XL features the familiar electric mouse on the lid. Originally available as a preorder specifically at the Japanese Pokemon Center, it was later put up for purchase as a special edition worldwide, but only for a limited time.
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Pokemon X & Y
With the release of a new generation of Pokemon came two gorgeous systems, red and blue handhelds featuring both legendaries from the games: Xerneas and Yveltal. You can still get both systems if you look in the right places, but you’ll have to purchase the games separately. They’re subdued and mature, a sight different from many of the other Pokemon-themed systems out there, like the one that follows next on this list.
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Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy
This slick black 3DS XL features a cast of familiar Final Fantasy characters in their stylized Theatrhythm forms, assembled together on the “stage” of the 3DS XL lid. This Japanese exclusive came with the game, but unfortunately it won’t see a North American release. It’s yours if you want to import it, however, and you should -- especially if you’re a hardcore Final Fantasy fan.
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The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
This gorgeous gold-toned The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds special edition system is understated, but that definitely doesn’t take away from its appeal. A large Triforce is emblazoned on the lid of the system and the bottom as well, and the system comes preloaded with the game as well, which is a trend many of these special editions tend to follow.
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Tomodachi Collection
A white and mint green speckled system released in tandem with the Japanese version of Tomodachi Life, this 3DS is a Japanese exclusive. The mint speckles are actually speech bubbles, though at a glance the system could resemble a dinosaur egg or something similar. The yellow blurb at the bottom right of the lid brings it all together. If you have the extra cash to import it, you’ll have one of the most unique systems around.
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