During Nintendo’s 3DS based conference yesterday, a new 3DS was announced. The new system boasted some slight changes, including a small C-stick that will work similar to the Gamecube’s yellow C-Stick, multi-colour face buttons in similar fashion to the Super Nintendo, more trigger buttons and a longer battery life; moving from a 3.5 hour lifespan to a 6 hour.
The more impressive feature is the inclusion of NFC-tech built in, meaning they can communicate with Amiibo figurines (like the ones coming for Super Smash Bros.) without need of an extra device which the older models will need. The new “Super Stable 3D” feature will allow the 3D view to be more comfortable and keep the 3D features working even when the device is rotated. Finally, a storage doc has been shown to allow more storage via a Micro SD.
Currently the new 3DS’ will launch in Japan on October 11 with the new 3DS priced 16,000 yen (around $154) and the new 3DS XL 18,800 yen ($181). Currently there is no plans for the console to launch this calendar year outside of Japan. Currently the first exclusive title to the new version of the handheld is a port of the previously Wii Exclusive Xenoblade Chronicles, which will only work on the new 3DS due to the new CPU’s strength.