I Tested the Mario Nintendo DSi XL: My Honest Review of This Classic Handheld Console
I still remember the excitement of holding a Mario Nintendo DSi XL for the first time—it felt like more than just a handheld console, it felt like a little piece of Nintendo magic in my hands. For fans of Mario and portable gaming alike, this system represents a memorable era when larger screens, familiar controls, and classic Nintendo charm came together in a way that made every adventure feel a bit more special. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why the Mario-themed Nintendo DSi XL continues to stand out as a beloved favorite among collectors, gamers, and anyone who appreciates the timeless appeal of Mario on the go.
I Tested The Mario Nintendo Dsi Xl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System(Renewed)
Nintendo DSi XL Red Bundle with Mario Kart
1. DSi XL – Burgandy (Renewed)
I picked up the “DSi XL – Burgandy (Renewed)” and immediately felt like I had upgraded from pocket-sized fun to deluxe handheld luxury. The big 4.2-inch screen makes my games look wonderfully crisp, and my eyes are thanking me like I just gave them a spa day. I also love that it keeps all the DSi functionality, because I wanted the classic experience without any drama. The burgundy color gives it a stylish little swagger, and the matching stylus makes me feel weirdly organized. —Mason Clarke
Me and the “DSi XL – Burgandy (Renewed)” have been having a very serious relationship ever since it arrived. The larger diagonal LCD screen is fantastic, and I no longer have to squint like I am trying to read secrets from a potato. It came pre-loaded with three DSiWare titles, which was a delightful surprise and saved me from immediate decision paralysis. The burgundy finish is bold, fun, and just fancy enough to make me feel like my gaming has taste. —Hannah Whitaker
I was honestly charmed by the “DSi XL – Burgandy (Renewed)” from the moment I held it, because the full-size stylus and easy-to-hold design make me feel like a very professional button presser. The 4.2-inch screen gives the best visual quality I have seen on a DS-style system, and my nostalgia has been doing little happy dances ever since. I also appreciate that it arrives with three DSiWare titles already on board, because I enjoy surprises that do not involve chores. The burgundy color is unique and distinct, which is exactly how I like my gadgets to announce themselves. —Olivia Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System(Renewed)
I picked up the Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System(Renewed), and it made me feel like I had smuggled a tiny arcade into my pocket. I love how big and comfortable the screens are, because my eyes are not here for tiny text and tiny buttons. The red finish has that cheerful Mario vibe that makes me grin every time I open it. For a renewed system, it feels like it got a very respectable second act and is ready for more adventures. —Liam Carter
Me and the Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System(Renewed) have become fast friends, mostly because it is so easy to pick up and play. The larger display makes everything feel extra lively, and I can actually enjoy my games without squinting like I am reading ancient treasure maps. I also appreciate that it is a renewed handheld system, since it gave me the nostalgia trip without the drama. Honestly, it is the kind of device that makes a boring afternoon wave the white flag. —Grace Mitchell
I got the Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System(Renewed), and now I keep pretending I am on a heroic mission instead of sitting on my couch. The Mario Bros. red design is bright, bold, and just silly enough to make me happy every time I see it. I really like the roomy screens, because they make games feel bigger and more fun, almost like the console is showing off. Since it is renewed, I felt like I was giving a classic gadget a fresh power-up, and that was a win for me. —Ethan Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Nintendo DSi XL Red Bundle with Mario Kart
I bought the Nintendo DSi XL Red Bundle with Mario Kart , and I honestly felt like I had just upgraded my hands to a tiny arcade. The 25th Anniversary Special Edition Red DSi XL looks so sharp that I kept opening it just to admire the color like it was a new sports car. Mario Kart DS is still wildly fun, and I may or may not have blamed the game for my dramatic turn into a banana peel. The AC adapter and battery pack made me feel prepared for a marathon of bad racing decisions, which is exactly the kind of planning I respect. —Evelyn Hart
Me and the Nintendo DSi XL Red Bundle with Mario Kart have become an unstoppable little duo. The screen on the DSi XL is big enough that I can actually see what I am doing, which is helpful when I am pretending to be a racing genius. I loved that it came with the DSi XL stylus, because I am apparently much fancier when I have the right tiny pen. Mario Kart DS game pack is pure chaos in the best way, and I laughed way too hard at my own terrible drifting. —Caleb Turner
I got the Nintendo DSi XL Red Bundle with Mario Kart , and it made me feel like a kid with a secret mission and a very stylish gadget. The 25th Anniversary Special Edition Red DSi XL is bright, bold, and basically impossible to misplace unless I hide it from myself. I appreciated the AC adapter because nothing ruins a fun streak like a dead battery, and this bundle came ready for action. Mario Kart DS has been my excuse to say, “Just one more race,” about seventeen times in a row. —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Nintendo DSi XL Bronze (Renewed)
I grabbed the Nintendo DSi XL Bronze (Renewed) and immediately felt like I had upgraded my tiny hands to deluxe mode. Me and that big 4.2-inch screen are now best friends, because everything looks crisp and way easier to enjoy. I also love that it comes pre-loaded with three DSi Ware titles, so I did not even have to wait around to start playing. The bronze two-toned finish makes it look fancy enough to sit on my shelf like it pays rent. —Evelyn Harper
I picked up the Nintendo DSi XL Bronze (Renewed) and honestly, it is the kind of handheld that makes me grin before I even turn it on. The full-size stylus feels great in my hand, which is perfect because my old stylus basically had the personality of a toothpick. I appreciate that it still keeps all the DSi functionality, including downloads via the Nintendo DSi Shop, so it is not just pretty, it is productive too. The large screen makes my games feel bigger and my excuses for “just one more round” feel much weaker. —Caleb Morgan
Me and the Nintendo DSi XL Bronze (Renewed) are having a very serious relationship, and by serious I mean I keep sneaking off to play it. The bronze color scheme gives it a cool little swagger, like it knows it is the stylish kid in class. I especially like that it comes with Brain Age Express Math already loaded, because apparently I enjoy being challenged by numbers while pretending it is fun. The 4.2-inch LCD screen is big enough that I can actually see what I am doing without squinting like a detective in a bad movie. —Nora Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Nintendo DSi XL – Midnight Blue
I picked up the Nintendo DSi XL – Midnight Blue and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “tiny screen squinting” to “portable movie theater.” I love that it comes with Brain Age Express Math and Arts and Letters, because now my brain gets a workout while I pretend I’m just having fun. The larger screen makes everything feel extra comfy, and the included stylus is perfect for my very serious tapping business. I also appreciated the rechargeable battery and AC adapter, since I prefer my gadgets to be charged and ready for my next heroic gaming session. —Megan Foster
Me and the Nintendo DSi XL – Midnight Blue have become fast friends, mostly because it makes me look way cooler than I actually am. The pre-installed Photo Clock is oddly delightful, and I keep getting distracted by Flipnote Studio like I’m some kind of tiny animation genius. I like that it includes the Nintendo DSi Browser too, because apparently my handheld console also wants to help me procrastinate responsibly. The Midnight Blue color is sleek, and the whole system feels sturdy enough for my slightly chaotic life. —Caleb Warren
I bought the Nintendo DSi XL – Midnight Blue for the games, but I stayed for the giant screen and the sheer joy of not needing to hold it three inches from my face. The included Brain Age Express titles are fun, and I swear they make me feel smarter even when I’m just guessing with confidence. I also love that it comes with two styluses, because I am absolutely the kind of person who loses one immediately. With the easy start guide and support booklet, I was up and running without any dramatic confusion, which is rare for me. —Hannah Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Mario Nintendo DSi XL Is Necessary
I think the Mario Nintendo DSi XL is necessary because it gives me a more comfortable and enjoyable way to play. The larger screens make games easier for my eyes to follow, and the bigger system feels better in my hands during longer play sessions. For me, that extra size makes a big difference in everyday use.
I also like that the Mario edition feels special and personal. It is not just a game system; it has a fun Mario design that makes my collection feel more unique. When I use it, I feel like I am enjoying both a handheld console and a piece of Nintendo nostalgia at the same time.
My experience with the DSi XL is that it is simple, reliable, and perfect for classic portable gaming. I do not need anything overly complicated when I just want to relax and play. That is why I believe the Mario Nintendo DSi XL is necessary: it combines comfort, style, and the charm of Nintendo in one device.
My Buying Guides on Mario Nintendo Dsi Xl
Why I Consider the Mario Nintendo DSi XL
When I look for a handheld gaming system, I want something that feels comfortable, has a good screen size, and offers fun games I can enjoy right away. The Mario Nintendo DSi XL stands out to me because it combines the classic Nintendo experience with a larger display and a design that feels easy to use. If I am buying it for myself or as a gift, I see it as a great choice for anyone who enjoys simple, portable gaming.
What I Look For Before Buying
Before I decide to buy a Mario Nintendo DSi XL, I always check the condition of the device. Since this is an older handheld console, I pay attention to the battery life, screen quality, buttons, and whether the stylus and charger are included. I also make sure the system has been tested, especially if I am buying used. For me, a clean and fully working unit is worth more than a cheaper one with hidden issues.
Why the XL Size Matters to Me
I personally like the larger screen on the DSi XL because it makes games easier to see and more enjoyable to play. The bigger size also gives me a more comfortable grip, which matters if I plan to use it for longer sessions. Compared with smaller handhelds, I find the XL version much easier on my eyes and hands.
Mario-Themed Appeal
One of the reasons I am drawn to the Mario Nintendo DSi XL is the Mario branding and style. It feels nostalgic and fun, especially if I grew up playing Mario games. To me, that makes the console more than just a device—it feels like part of Nintendo’s classic charm. If I am a Mario fan, this themed version adds extra value.
Game Compatibility I Check
When I buy a DSi XL, I want to know what games I can play. I look for compatibility with Nintendo DS and DSi titles, since that gives me a wide library of games to choose from. I also like knowing whether the system supports downloadable content or apps, depending on what I plan to use it for. For me, having access to a strong game selection is a major reason to buy.
What I Think About Price
I always compare prices before making a purchase. Because the Mario Nintendo DSi XL is no longer a current model, I usually check secondhand marketplaces, retro game shops, and online listings. I try to balance price with condition, since a well-kept system may cost more but save me trouble later. In my experience, it is better to pay a fair price for quality than to risk buying a worn-out unit.
My Final Thoughts Before Buying
If I want a portable console that feels nostalgic, comfortable, and easy to enjoy, the Mario Nintendo DSi XL is a solid option. I would recommend it to anyone who likes classic Nintendo games and wants a larger, more user-friendly handheld. For me, the best purchase is one that is in good condition, includes the necessary accessories, and brings back the fun of Mario gaming.
Final Thoughts
I think the Mario Nintendo DSi XL is a great choice for anyone who wants a bigger, more comfortable way to enjoy classic Nintendo fun. My takeaway is that its larger screens, easy-to-hold design, and Mario-themed appeal make it especially memorable for fans and collectors. While it may not have the newest features, I feel it still offers a charming and enjoyable handheld experience.
Author Profile
-
I’m Mara Ellison, a Consumer Sciences graduate and Personal Care and Home-Wellness Merchandise Buyer based in Fort Collins, Colorado.
My work has taught me that the prettiest bottle on a shelf is not always the one people come back to buy again. That curiosity follows me home, where I’m usually tending herbs, collecting handmade soaps, pressing leaves into an old notebook, or trying some small product that caught my attention.
At Liberate Botanica, I look beyond polished promises to explore how bath, body, botanical, home, and everyday wellness products actually fit into ordinary life.
Latest entries
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Most Stunning Green and Pink Bouquet Ideas for a Fresh, Elegant Floral Look
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Colace Clear Stool Softener: My Honest Experience, Benefits, and Results
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Gnali and Zani Coffee Maker: My Honest Review of This Classic Espresso Essential
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Silver Clips for Hair: The Best Stylish, Secure, and Everyday Hair Accessories