Nintendo Direct: 3DS XL First Photos

We’ve talked about it, you’ve dreamed about it but now it’s here: the 3DS XL in all its many-lettered splendor. Judging from these photos, the 3DS’s two-tone effect is all but gone (we’ll give an exception to the silver and red models) and in its place is the high-matte finish reminiscent of the DSi and its equally big brother, the original XL. What do you think of the 3DS XL? Does it give the console the necessary flashiness to compete with the likes of Apple and the PS Vita? And will these photos convince you to trade in your 3DS and pick one up on launch day? Let us know in the comments section below.