The DSi XL comes with the familiar small stylus that can be stored within the device, but also includes a longer, pen-like stylus, which is definitely more comfortable if you are going to be playing for a long time. The XL also comes preloaded with Brain Age Express: Arts & Letters, Brain Age Express: Math, and Photo Clock, as well as two free applications: the Nintendo DSi Browser and Flipnote Studio.
We were recently able to check out a few new games that will play on all of the DS consoles, but they'll really work best on the DSi XL.
WarioWare: DIY Showcase features over 70 micro-games and a cool new DIY feature that lets players create their own games; it will also be playable on a Nintendo Wii.
We also saw America's Test Kitchen: Let's Get Cooking, based on the eponymous television show. That game features 300 recipes, cooking tutorial videos, and step-by-step recipe walkthroughs. I especially liked how the game will read the directions out loud as you cook. It also has shopping lists for you to take with you to the grocery store.
Nintendo is also launching several new Pokemon titles to go with the DSi XL. We got to play with Pokemon HeartGold and Pokemon SoulSilver. Both games feature all 493 Pokemons, but the main new feature is the Pokewalker that come with the games.
Pokewalker allows you to transfer captured Pokemon from your DSi to a small "Tamagotchi-like" device that looks like a digital watch without the band. This allows you to take a Pokemon with you and exercise it. The more walks you take and the farther you go, the more powerful it gets. Once it gets enough strength, you can find objects with the Pokewalker and capture wild Pokemon with it.
The DSi XL's suggested retail price of $189.99 puts it at about the same price point as the Wii and the Xbox 360. However, for a limited time, you can get your DSi XL absolutely free, just by registering here.
For more information about the Nintendo DSi XL, check out this entertaining video: Interested in a Free Nintendo DSi XL?
Nintendo DSi XL Update

