According to one analyst, the launch of the new, larger XL version of the Nintendo 3DS handheld will not influence sales in any significant way, while the future prospects of the rival PlayStation Vita from Sony remain bleak.
Michael Pachter, who is an analyst watching the industry for Wedbush Morgan, has told VG247 that, “The larger format is not all that compelling for the consumer and although I think the XL will help sales, I don’t think that the impact will revive weak sales of handhelds overall.”
He added, “Vita’s too expensive for most, priced pretty much the same as the PS3 everywhere. While I think the Vita is a good value and a great device, when compared to the PS3 it’s pretty expensive. Also, there is not much of a library of Vita games, so sales will probably be slow until we see more content.”
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3DS XL is set to arrive first in Europe, on July 28, while Japanese gamers will be able to get their hands on the new device one day later.
Those who are looking to get it in the United States will need to wait until August 19.
The XL is designed to offer more screen surface for all players, which should allow developers to create better game experiences.
The battery of the device is also set to be an improvement.
The Nintendo 3DS was a disappointment during its first weeks on sale in 2011 and only managed to take off once Nintendo introduced a 30 percent cut in the price during August.
The Vita has also failed to live up to expectations this year, but Sony has said that it is satisfied with the sales so far.
A number of new games for both devices are expected to arrive in time for Christmas this year.
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